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"The Taurus SHO has always followed the original formula of stealthy sleeper, and the new model is no exception," said Gordon Platto, chief designer. "We wanted to keep the subtle, understated, yet sporty elegance, but at the same time we knew it was time to even more fully differentiate the Super High Output model from other Taurus series models." |
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Distinctive design, signature technology For the new Ford Taurus SHO, subtle differentiation from the other members of the Taurus family starts up front, with a performance-inspired grille in black mesh - unique to the SHO - flanked by series-specific high-intensity discharge headlamps. Behind the front wheel openings, a fender-mounted scallop contains a subtle SHO badge. |
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Enhanced powertrain, refined dynamics The new Taurus SHO drivetrain continues to use the award-winning and fuel-efficient 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, delivering 365 horsepower and 350 lb.-ft. of torque, mated to a six-speed high-capacity 6F55 SelectShift Automatic™ transmission. Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters enable the Ford Taurus SHO to match revs for smooth, quick, manually selected downshifts. For the new model, these have been reconfigured for more intuitive operation, with one paddle for upshifts and the other for making smooth, matched-rev downshifts. SHO dynamics have been enhanced with larger brakes, torque vectoring control - using slight braking to provide the effect of a limited-slip differential - and unique sport-tuned suspension. Specially calibrated electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) has been further optimized for enthusiast-pleasing road feel and direct, communicative response. In addition to helping Ford Taurus SHO deliver up to 25 mpg highway, EPAS enables the car to park itself with active park assist. Taurus SHO brake system upgrades include a larger master cylinder, revised booster tuning for improved pedal feel, larger front rotors with 19 percent more thermal mass and 67 percent more swept area to help brakes run cooler. Now vented, the rear disc brakes offer 53 percent more thermal mass. |
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| "Initial Quality Study data from J.D. Power and Associates showed that the 2010 Taurus SHO gained phenomenal acceptance, as 92 percent of customers were satisfied with their vehicles," said Marentic. "In addition, Taurus SHO delivered new customers to the Ford showroom at an incredible rate. Roughly half of 2010 SHO customers had not previously considered nor shopped Ford. We frequently see high-end sedans - 3-Series and 5-Series BMWs and Acura TLs - as trade-ins." SHO Performance Package For discriminating automotive performance enthusiasts demanding the ultimate in uncompromised dynamics and response, the 2013 Taurus SHO offers a new Performance Package that is engineered to deliver greater handling responsiveness, power and durability under more sporting driving conditions. The SHO Performance Package includes:
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