The Ford Taurus has historically offered both four- and six-cylinder engines, but most non-SHO models relied on V6 power. Some later trims were offered with a turbocharged four-cylinder EcoBoost, while the high-performance SHO uses a turbocharged V6. As of 2019, Ford discontinued the Taurus in the U.S., so engine options depend on the specific year and trim of any used example.
Understanding the question requires looking at how engine choices evolved across the Taurus generations. The car began with four- and six-cylinder options in early generations, then moved largely to V6 power in the standard lineup for most of its modern life, with turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinders appearing on select trims and the SHO sticking with a high-output V6. The exact engine for a given Taurus will depend on its model year and trim level.
Engine options over the Taurus lifespan
Below is a concise guide to the engine configurations you’re likely to encounter when researching or buying a Taurus, depending on era and trim.
- Early generations commonly offered both inline-four and V6 options, depending on trim level and market.
- Mid-2000s to 2009 Tauruses largely focused on V6 power, with four-cylinder options available in some lower trims or markets.
- From 2010 through the end of production, most Taurus models used a V6 as the standard option, with an EcoBoost four-cylinder available on select trims and the SHO continuing to use a turbocharged V6 for high performance.
When shopping, engine availability varies by year and trim, so always verify the exact engine by checking the VIN, window sticker, or a dealer diagnostic.
What to verify when shopping for a Taurus
Before pulling the trigger on a used Taurus, check the engine badge and service records to confirm whether it’s a four- or six-cylinder, and whether it’s naturally aspirated or turbocharged. The SHO will have a distinctive badge and a turbocharged V6, while other trims may feature a turbo EcoBoost four-cylinder in certain years. Also confirm the model year, as Ford stopped selling the Taurus in the U.S. after 2019.
Summary
Across its history, the Ford Taurus has offered both four- and six-cylinder engines. Six-cylinder power was the most common baseline for non-SHO Tauruses, while a turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder appeared on some later trims, and the SHO relied on a turbocharged V6 for performance. For buyers, the key is to verify the engine type for the specific year and trim you’re considering, and to remember that the Taurus was discontinued in the U.S. after 2019.