The 2011 Taurus SHO uses a six-speed automatic transmission paired with all-wheel drive. It includes Ford’s SelectShift manual-shift mode and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters; there is no manual gearbox option for this model year.
Transmission type and drive configuration
In the SHO, Ford combines a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 with a six-speed automatic transmission designed to handle higher performance levels. The car is equipped with all-wheel drive that Ford markets as intelligent AWD with torque-vectoring, intended to improve grip and handling during spirited driving as well as normal driving conditions.
Key features of the Taurus SHO’s transmission system include:
- Six-speed automatic transmission with SelectShift (manual-shift capability)
- All-wheel-drive drivetrain integrated with the transmission
- Steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters for manual-style gear selection
- Sport-oriented calibration intended to balance performance with everyday usability
In short, the combination of a six-speed automatic, SelectShift control, paddle shifters, and AWD defines the SHO’s transmission setup for the 2011 model year.
Why this matters for driving and ownership
The six-speed automatic is designed to handle the SHO’s performance goals without a manual option, while the AWD system helps manage power through corners and varied road conditions. For buyers and owners, this means a smoother, more predictable power delivery with the option to manually select gears when desired, rather than a traditional manual transmission.
Summary
The 2011 Ford Taurus SHO is equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission with SelectShift and paddle shifters, paired with all-wheel drive and torque-vectoring capabilities. This setup prioritizes performance and daily usability over a manual gearbox, aligning with the SHO’s high-performance persona.