Ford Taurus SHO

Ford Taurus SHO is a high performance version of the Ford Taurus sedan. It was initially released in the year 1989, and its production continued till 1999, but it was taken off Ford’s production line-up due to heavy decline in sales figures.

ford taurus sho

The next generation of Taurus SHO returned in the year of 2010, and the new Taurus SHO looks meaner, and trendier than ever before. Meaning of SHO SHO stands for Super High Output – the name itself suggests what the car is all about!

new ford taurus sho

Another fact suggesting the credentials of the model is that it was designed by the same group who happened to design Ford Mustang SVO, the iconic mean muscular machine. Initially released as a limited edition model, Ford Taurus SHO turned out to be bigger success than expected. The first 15,000 units were sold in no time and there was huge demand for more. Till 1999, more than 100,000 SHO models were successfully sold. In 1999, the production of the model was shelved due to the declining popularity, but Taurus SHO returned in style, after a decade in the year 2010.

First Generation (1989-1991)

ford taurus sho

The new SHO version created an absolute furore because of its sleek looks and power prowess. Features like fog lamps, newer bumpers and side cladding differentiated SHO from the normal Taurus models. Under the body shell the model had newer tachometer and sported sports seats. The performance version also featured one of the best transmission technologies of that time and it could sprint from 0-60 mph in mere 6.6 seconds. In 1991, an addition special Plus package was included in the line up to lure more users who craved for better performance.

Second Generation (1992-1995)

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The model received some fine tuning in terms of drivetrain, powertrain and features in 1992. A brand new 3.0 liter V6 engine mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox was included in the engine line up. Apart from the engine changes, the second generation SHO featured newer seats, different bumpers, dual exhaust, and new side cladding. New solid disc replaced the traditional rear brakes for good. In 1993, a more advanced 3.2 liter V6 engine was included, which was coupled with an automatic transmission. Ford took this step to overcome the declining popularity of the manual gearbox at that time. The newer engine provided the same horsepower of 220 hp, but offered an extra 15 lb-ft of torque.

Third Generation (1996-1999)

ford taurus sho

In the year 1996, Taurus SHO was once again revised in terms of styling and engine. Newer seats, bumpers and powertrain offerings differentiated the third generation SHO from its predecessors. A more powerful V8 engine was included to add that extra zing needed to sustain the declining popularity of the model. The 3.4 liter V8 engine could generate a horsepower of 235 hp, better than ever. All kinds of efforts by Ford to revamp Taurus SHO went in vain, as the sales figures of the model came crashing down towards 1999. This forced Ford to stop the production of the model.

Fourth Generation (2010+)

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2009 Chicago Auto Show witnessed the re-introduction of the fourth generation model of Ford Taurus SHO. The all-wheel drive sedan was based on Ford D3 Platform. The 3.5 liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 engine becomes more roaring than ever before with horsepower offering of 365 hp @ 5500 rpm and torque of 350 lb-ft @ 5350 rpm. The engine comes mated to the latest Ford’s 6F55 six-speed SelectShift semi-automatic gearbox.

Ford Taurus SHO interiors

The newer SR1 suspension with MacPherson front struts make the ride quality uber class. The interiors are pretty decent, though there’s nothing too great to talk about! On the outside, we see dark gray grilles matching the giant wheels, dual exhaust, an ECoBoost rear logo and a decklid spoiler.

2013 Ford Taurus SHO

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In the year of 2013, SHO is expected to get equipped with a new turbocharged four-cylinder engine which will help in enhancing the overall gas economy. A newer high performance version is also likely to join the line up, which would most likely offer tighter suspension along with more efficient brakes. Along with all these, the regular features upgrades are also included which should add the even newer techno gadgets and comfort features, making this powerful sedan even more exquisite.

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Black Ford Taurus SHO

ford taurus sho

Ford Taurus SHO Exterior

ford taurus sho

White Ford Taurus SHO

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