2017 Ford Taurus: A Comprehensive Overview
The 2017 Ford Taurus represents a segment of American sedans that prioritizes substantial road presence, comfortable cruising, and a refined driving experience. While the sedan market has shifted, the Taurus remained a compelling option for those seeking a full-size, well-equipped vehicle.
Highlights
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Engine Options:
- Standard 3.5L V6: This naturally aspirated engine provides a smooth and capable power delivery, making it well-suited for everyday driving and highway cruising. It offers a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency for its class.
- Available 2.7L EcoBoost V6: For those seeking more spirited performance, the turbocharged 2.7L EcoBoost engine delivers significantly more horsepower and torque. This option transforms the Taurus into a more potent and responsive machine, particularly enjoyable for spirited acceleration.
- Optional SHO Performance Package: The performance-oriented SHO model features a more powerful 3.5L EcoBoost V6 twin-turbocharged engine, delivering exhilarating acceleration and a sportier driving dynamic, making it a true performance sedan.
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Safety Features:
- Standard Safety Suite: The 2017 Taurus came equipped with a robust suite of standard safety features designed to protect occupants. This included front-seat airbags, front-seat side-impact airbags, and Safety Canopy® side-curtain airbags for both rows.
- AdvanceTrac® with Electronic Stability Control (ESC): This system continuously monitors the vehicle's trajectory and helps to prevent skids and loss of control by automatically applying individual brakes and reducing engine power when necessary.
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): ABS prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control and reducing stopping distances on most surfaces.
- Rearview Camera: A standard rearview camera assists in backing up safely by providing a visual of the area behind the vehicle.
- Available Driver-Assist Technologies: Higher trims and optional packages offered advanced safety features like Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with cross-traffic alert (alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots and approaching from the sides when reversing), Lane-Keeping System (provides gentle steering input to keep the vehicle within its lane), and Adaptive Cruise Control (maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead).
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Trim Level Summary: The 2017 Ford Taurus was available in several distinct trims, each offering a different blend of features and sophistication:
- SE: The entry-level trim provides a solid foundation with essential comfort and safety features.
- SEL: The SEL trim builds upon the SE with upgraded interior appointments, alloy wheels, and more available convenience features.
- Taurus: This mid-level trim further enhances the upscale feel with premium materials and additional technology.
- Limited: The Limited trim signifies a step up in luxury and technology, featuring leather-trimmed seating, advanced infotainment, and enhanced driver aids.
- SHO: The performance flagship, the SHO, is distinguished by its powerful EcoBoost engine, sport-tuned suspension, unique exterior styling cues, and a host of premium features designed for driving enthusiasts.
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Other Notable Aspects:
- Spacious Interior: The Taurus boasts a generous interior, offering ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers, making it a comfortable choice for families or long road trips.
- Comfortable Ride: Ford tuned the Taurus for a compliant and smooth ride, effectively absorbing road imperfections and providing a quiet cabin environment.
- SYNC® 3 Infotainment System: Available on most trims, the SYNC 3 system offered an intuitive touchscreen interface with responsive performance, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and voice command functionality.
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Availability: AWD was an optional feature on many Taurus trims, enhancing traction and stability in various weather conditions, particularly beneficial in regions with snow or rain.
What to Expect
The ownership experience of a 2017 Ford Taurus is generally characterized by its comfortable and composed demeanor. It excels as a highway cruiser, offering a quiet and relaxed ride. Daily commuting is also a pleasant affair, thanks to the supportive seats and intuitive controls.
Maintenance: Routine maintenance for the Taurus typically involves oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements, which are standard for most vehicles. The 3.5L V6 engine is generally considered reliable with proper maintenance. The EcoBoost engines, while offering enhanced performance, may require more specialized attention from technicians familiar with turbocharged systems. Following Ford's recommended maintenance schedule, which can be found in the owner's manual, is crucial for maximizing the longevity and performance of the vehicle. Parts availability is generally good, as the Taurus was a popular model.
Insurance: Insurance costs for a 2017 Ford Taurus will vary based on factors such as your driving record, location, chosen insurance provider, and the specific trim level of the vehicle. Higher trims like the SHO, with their more powerful engines and advanced features, may command slightly higher premiums. It's always advisable to get quotes from multiple insurance companies to find the most competitive rates.
Potential Considerations
While the 2017 Ford Taurus offers many strengths, there are a few potential drawbacks buyers should be aware of:
- Fuel Economy: Compared to smaller, more modern sedans, the Taurus's fuel economy, particularly with the V6 engines, is not its strongest suit. While the EcoBoost engines offer a slight improvement, it is still a large, powerful vehicle.
- Rear Seat Visibility: The design of the rear C-pillars can create a larger blind spot for the rear-view, making it important to rely on the rearview camera and blind-spot monitoring systems when available.
- Dated Infotainment (Base Models): While SYNC 3 was a significant upgrade, some lower trims might have had older versions of Ford's infotainment system, which could feel less responsive or feature-rich compared to the latest offerings.
- Trunk Opening: The trunk opening on the Taurus is somewhat narrow, which can make loading and unloading larger or bulkier items a bit more challenging.
Overall Summary
The 2017 Ford Taurus is a capable and comfortable full-size sedan that offers a refined driving experience, particularly on the highway. It provides a spacious interior, a smooth ride, and a range of engine options to suit different priorities, from everyday commuting to spirited performance in the SHO variant. While its fuel economy isn't class-leading and some design elements might feel slightly dated by current standards, it remains a solid choice for those seeking a substantial and well-equipped American sedan that prioritizes comfort and a commanding presence.