The 2012 Ford Taurus offered two engine options depending on the trim: a 3.5-liter Ti-VCT Duratec V6 for most models, and the high-performance 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 turbocharged engine used in the Taurus SHO.
In more detail, the Duratec 35 powers the majority of Taurus models with 263 horsepower and 249 lb-ft of torque, while the Taurus SHO uses a twin-turbo EcoBoost 3.5-liter V6 generating 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. The Duratec is naturally aspirated, whereas the EcoBoost is turbocharged; both variants typically came with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Engine options for the 2012 Taurus
The following summarizes the two powertrains Ford offered across the 2012 Taurus lineup, including core performance figures.
- 3.5L Ti-VCT Duratec V6 (commonly referred to as Duratec 35) — 263 horsepower and 249 lb-ft of torque; used on most Taurus models (non-SHO).
- 3.5L EcoBoost V6 — 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque; turbocharged engine used exclusively in the Taurus SHO.
In practice, the engine you received depended on the trim level: the Duratec 35 powered the standard and midrange Taurus models, while the EcoBoost V6 powered the performance-focused Taurus SHO, delivering substantially higher power and torque.
Notes on performance and maintenance
Both engines share a 6-speed automatic transmission and general Ford reliability traits from that era. Routine maintenance (oil changes, spark plugs, filters, and timing components as recommended) is important for longevity, especially for the EcoBoost’s turbocharged system, which may require more attentive cooling and oil management than the naturally aspirated Duratec 3.5L.
Summary: For the 2012 Ford Taurus, two engines were offered. The base and most trims used the 3.5L Ti-VCT Duratec V6 with 263 hp, while the Taurus SHO used the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 with 365 hp. If you’re evaluating a used Taurus, verify the engine by checking the model/trim name or the VIN to confirm which powertrain it has.