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
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.