The Taurus SHO’s transmission has varied across its years, ranging from manual setups prized by enthusiasts to modern automatics. In current and recent models, Ford ships a 6-speed automatic; earlier generations offered both manual and automatic options depending on the year.
Modern Taurus SHO (2010–2019+)
The modern Taurus SHO, built on the EcoBoost-powered platform, uses a contemporary automatic transmission designed for smooth acceleration and sporty shifting. It pairs a turbocharged V6 with gear ratios tuned for quick response and confident highway passing.
Before listing the specific configuration, note that the following is the primary transmission type used in the modern SHO lineup.
- 6-speed automatic transmission (Ford 6F50) with manual shift mode
The 6-speed automatic in the modern SHO provides smooth, performance-oriented shifts with paddle-shift capability in many trims, and there is no manual transmission option offered for these years.
Earlier Taurus SHO generations (1989–2009)
Across the early generations, the Taurus SHO offered a mix of transmissions, including a manually shifted option that became a signature among enthusiasts, as well as automatics that varied by year and market.
Before listing the options, this paragraph explains the typical configurations that defined the era.
- 5-speed manual transmission (notably used with the Yamaha-tuned V6 engines in the early SHO models)
- 4-speed automatic transmission (used on some SHO variants in certain years)
- 5-speed automatic transmission (used on various SHO models in other years)
Conclusion: In these generations, buyers could often choose between a manual gearbox and several automatic options, with the manual option remaining a defining feature for performance-minded buyers.
For precise year-by-year details
If you need the exact transmission for a specific model year or VIN, consult Ford’s official archives, a factory brochure, or a trusted VIN decoder, as the SHO’s drivetrain evolved multiple times across its production span.
Summary
Across its history, the Taurus SHO has used multiple transmissions. The current/modern versions rely on a 6-speed automatic (with paddle shifters but no manual option), while the earlier generations offered a mix of a Yamaha-tuned 5-speed manual and various automatic transmissions (4- and 5-speed) depending on year and model. For any given vehicle, the exact transmission depends on the production year and market.
What year of Ford Taurus SHO to avoid?
The worst year was 2003, but the entire block from 2000 through 2005 stands out as receiving a lot of complaints from owners. Buyers looking at the high-performance Ford Taurus SHO would be wise to avoid the third-generation that ran from 1996 through 1999.
Is the SHO a sleeper car?
2010-2019 Ford Taurus SHO Was A Sleeper Sedan Everyone Forgot About.
Why is the Taurus SHO fast?
This 1995 Ford Taurus is the performance trim level known as the SHO (Super High Output). Instead of the lethargic six cylinder 140 HP motor, the SHO received the famous 3.2L Yamaha DOHC V6 only available in the 4-speed automatic transmission equipped vehicles. The vehicle puts out 220 HP through its front wheels.
What transmission does the Ford Taurus SHO have?
This engine was mated to Ford's 6F55 six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission with a paddle or console activated manual mode.