As General Motors and Ford move their full-sized sedans to global platforms, a modest downsizing of their vehicles is likely to occur.

Ford, which recently launched the redesigned 2010 Taurus, is already planning on moving the next-generation model to a smaller platform at the end of the current model’s cycle. Sources say that FoMoCo is planning to replace three different platforms that currently provide the foundation for most of the company’s mid and full-sized sedans, with a single mid-sized platform that could be modified for larger vehicles.

The new platform itself would be based on the European C/D-Class platform, which currently underpins the Ford Mondeo. Models like the Ford Fusion and Edge would end up moving to the new platform.

Larger vehicles like the Taurus will follow; nonetheless, the next Taurus will still be longer than the Fusion but slightly shorter than the current 2010 model. Similar changes will be made to the Ford Flex and Lincoln MKT crossovers.

GM is thinking of a similar strategy that would put the Chevrolet Impala to its upcoming Epsilon II platform, which will also underpin the next-generation Malibu as well.

2010 Ford Taurus:

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Detroit News

It is finally time for us to gather up some randomness from around the internet and today we focus on some outstanding amounts of American horsepower.

New Camaro Z28 spotted in GM’s design studio: It was reported earlier this year that the Chevrolet Camaro Z28 had been put on hold since it ran out of money to launch the car – meaning design and engineering work must have been completed. A new image has popped up on the Camaro5 forums showing a scan from a book called “Camaro, an American Icon.” The image shows GM designers working on a Camaro Z28. We are patiently waiting GM.- Camaro5

2010 Ford Taurus SHO crashes in Chicago: The report says that a sold 2010 Ford Taurus SHO left the dealership and came back on a flatbed. Apparently it was involved in a 3 car pile up. – ChicagoSVT

Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen: Who’s going to go watch the sequel tomorrow? Let us know if you’ll be catching the midnight show tomorrow night. We’ve already purchased our tickets.

- By: Mo Eladawy

Ford has yet to release an official press release with the 2010 Ford Taurus and Taurus SHO pricing details but we’ve done some digging and have found the prices on the SE, SEL, Limited and SHO models.

All 2010 Ford Taurus models are powered by a Duratec 3.5L V6 engine that produces 263-hp with a maximum torque of 249 lb-ft. The base level Taurus SE model will come with a standard 6-speed automatic transmission with prices starting at $25,170 (excluding taxes and registration fees). The 2010 Ford Taurus SEL and Limited models offer SelectShiftAutomatic with shift control paddles mounted on the steering wheel. Prices for the Taurus SEL and Limited models start at $27,170 and $31,710 respectively. All-wheel-drive is available as an option.

Ford says that the advanced twin-turbo EcoBoost 3.5L V6 will also be available on the Taurus at a later date.

The 2010 Ford Taurus SHO, powered by a 3.5L twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 making 365-hp and a peak torque of 350 lb-ft, starts at $37,170. The engine is mated to 6-speed 6F55 SelectShift transmission (with paddle-shifters) with a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system. The Taurus SHO also takes full advantage of a multi-link SR1 rear suspension design which enhances driver control. EPA-estimated fuel-economy comes in at 17/25 mpg (city/highway).

Well, that’s it for the pricing details. You can check out the full list of options after the jump.

2010 Ford Taurus:

2010 Ford Taurus SHO:

2010 Ford Taurus Standard and Optional Features:

Adaptive Cruise Control allows the driver to set the vehiclecruising speed while using radar technology to monitor traffic travelling up to 600 feet ahead, automatically adjusting Taurus speed to help maintain a safe distance between vehicles.

Collision Warning with Brake Support is a new active safety feature, enabled by Adaptive Cruise Control. This system uses a radar sensor to detect moving vehicles ahead and provides a visual “heads-up” warning signal transmitted across the base of the windshield and an audible warning when slower moving traffic is detected ahead. The system also pre-charges the brakes and engages an electronic brake assist to help the driver stop more quickly.

Intelligent Access with Push-Button Start, a new Taurus feature, allows the driver to enter the car and start the engine by simply carrying the fob as they approach and enter the vehicle.

SecuriCode^TM Keyless Entry Keypad enables vehicle access by unlocking the driver’s door using a five-digit code on the new keypad system flush-mounted in the driver’s side B-pillar.

MyKey^TM allows parents or fleet administrators to activate a restricted driving mode. When enabled, MyKey features a Persistent Belt-Minder® with Audio Mute until safety belts are buckled, an earlier low-fuel warning, and consistently engaged AdvanceTrac® stability control, Blind Spot monitoring, Cross Traffic Alert and Forward Collision Warning. Additional programmability includes restrictions on audio volume, limiting top speed to 80 mph and speed chime warnings at 45, 55, or 65mph.

Auto High Beams/Rain-Sensing Wipers harness sensor technologies to switch headlights to high intensity when no other vehicles are detected, in a range of up to 500 feet for taillight detection, and up to 2,000 feet for oncoming headlight detection. Rain-sensing wipers use an advanced optical sensor to detect the intensity of rain and/or snowfall to adjust wiper speed.

Easy Fuel® Capless Fuel Filler System is an industry-exclusive feature that self-seals without a traditional fuel cap.

Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) consists of two multiple beam radar modules, one each per rear quarter panel. When an approaching vehicle enters the defined blind spot zone, an indicator alert provides warning to the driver in the corresponding side view mirror.

Cross Traffic Alert uses the existing BLIS radar modules to sense oncoming traffic when slowly backing out of a parking spot. This industry-exclusive system functions only while the vehicle is in reverse and warns when cross-traffic appears within three car widths.

Ford SYNC® is the fully integrated, in-vehicle voice-activated communications and entertainment system, with 911 Assist^TM, Vehicle Health Report and GPS-based features including business search and call completion. SYNC connects to MP3 players, iPods, memory sticks and PDAs. SYNC’s 911 Assist will place a call to a local emergency operator in the event of an air bag deployment incident. The latest version of SYNC adds Traffic, Directions and Information, providing turn-by-turn route guidance, and the ability to access content by personalized favorites such as region, subject matter or sports team.

Voice-Activated Navigation System with SIRIUS® Travel Link^TM uses an 8-inch screen to present a birds-eye-view map with 3D landmarks. The system responds to voice commands for destination programming and route selection. In addition, it provides enhanced route guidance features such as street name announcements and detailed freeway exit, turn and ramp position lane guidance. The screen can be personalized with up to 32 pictures, sized up to 1.5 MB each. The system also incorporates the SIRIUS Travel Link, offering availability of current weather and ski conditions, a five-day forecast, local fuel pricing by cost per gallon and brand, sports scores and movie listings.

Sony® Audio components deliver sound from a variety of sources, with an AM-FM tuner, SIRIUS Satellite radio, CD, DVD audio and an integrated 10 GB hard drive for storage of up to 2,400 songs. This package also includes an available 12-speaker premium audio system.

Multi-Contour Seats with Active Motion^TM are available – on an industry-exclusive basis – for driver and passenger, integrating a six-way lumbar support and subtle rolling pattern massage. The bottom cushion features Active Motion technology, providing minute but continuous movement, stirring a change of muscular activation helping a driver avoid back pain.

Side Protection And Cabin Enhancement (SPACE®) Architecture is comprised of a hydroformed cross-car beam embedded in the floor between the door frames, providing additional strength in the side of the vehicle. In the event of a side impact, the beam helps pert crash forces away from the occupants. A strong roof cross member and side impact door beams work with the floor-mounted tube to further improve side impact protection.

Personal Safety System^TM is designed to reduce the risk of injury to the driver and front seat passenger in the event of a moderate to severe frontal collision. Sensors note right front occupant weight, safety belt usage, outboard seat belt tension and seating position to optimize air bag deployment force for occupant safety.

AdvanceTrac® electronic stability control predicts the vehicle’s intended path, using sensors to detect and measure oversteer and yaw, while continuously monitoring vehicle speed, throttle position and steering wheel angle. When the system senses a loss of wheel traction, engine torque is reduced and braking is applied in conjunction with the standard Anti-lock Braking (ABS) system. The system also incorporates traction control to aid drivers when operating the vehicle on loose or slippery surfaces.

SOS Post-Crash Alert System^TM is an integrated technology that automatically unlocks the doors and activates the emergency flashers in the event of an air bag deployment.

- By: Omar Rana

Editors of the Esquire magazine have named the 2010 Ford Taurus SHO as its inaugural “Car of the Year.”

“We had three main criteria in selecting the Esquire Car of the Year,” explained David Granger, editor-in-chief. “The vehicle needed to be a pleasure to drive and be capable of shortening your breath when you slam down the pedal. It needed to be gorgeous and aggressive, capable of eliciting stares and gawks. And it needed to be attainable – a vehicle that most men actually can buy and drive. The new Taurus SHO nailed all of these parameters.”

“The reason we care about the new Taurus can be boiled down to four words: Looks good, goes fast,” said Esquire automotive correspondent, Ezra Dyer.

Refresher: Power comes from a 3.5L turbo V6 EcoBoost making 365-hp at 5,500 rpm and 350 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm. The engine is mated to 6-speed 6F55 SelectShift transmission (with paddle-shifters) with a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system.

Make the jump for the high-res image gallery.

2010 Ford Taurus SHO:

- By: The Daily Auto Editor

Ford announced today that its new 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine will debut with a “beefed-up” 6-speed SelectShift automatic transmission that is “designed for higher torque demands of the all-new twin-turbocharged, direct injection engine.”

Based on the new 6F-50 transmission, the 6F-55 is dedicated to the 3.5L EcoBoost lineup. To guarantee every drop of torque produced by the turbocharged V6 EcoBoost, the ring gear on the 6F-55 transmission is a beefier 41.5 mm versus 31.5 mm on the 6F-50.

The 3.5L V6 EcoBoost produces 355-hp (365-hp on the 2010 Taurus SHO) with a maximum torque of 350 lb-ft. The new engine mated to the 6-speed SelectShift 6F-55 transmission will first be made available on the 2010 Lincoln MKS due out later this summer. It will also be available on the new 2010 Lincoln MKT, 2010 Ford Flex and the 2010 Ford Taurus SHO.

Follow the jump for the press release for more details.

Press Release:

BEEFED-UP SIX-SPEED TRANSMISSION MEETS HIGH-TORQUE DEMANDS OF 3.5-LITER ECOBOOST ENGINE

DEARBORN, Mich., Feb. 18, 2009 ““ Ford”s 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 engine debuts this spring with the perfect running mate for maximum performance and fuel efficiency ““ a six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission that”s specifically designed for the higher torque demands of the all-new twin-turbocharged, direct injection engine.

Developed from the successful 6F-50 transmission, the 6F-55 is dedicated solely to the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine and incorporates a number of component and calibration upgrades that help guarantee every drop of torque produced by the turbocharged V-6 is seamlessly transmitted, giving customers that V-8-like performance they love, as well as the fuel economy they demand.

“Adapting the 6F architecture to the EcoBoost engine demanded a close look at every component, piece of hardware, and calibration measure to ensure that this transmission could answer the needs of a higher output engine; help, not hinder, fuel economy; and meet Ford”s strict durability standards,” said Barb Samardzich, vice president, Global Powertrain Engineering.

The engine/transmission combination is already proving its muster. The 2010 Lincoln MKS, the first Ford Motor Company vehicle to offer the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine and 6F-55 transmission package, will deliver an impressive 355 horsepower and a responsive 350 ft.-lbs. of torque, along with achieving 25 mpg on the highway.

That”s more power and better highway fuel economy than the V-8 engine found in the 2009 Lexus GS460 (24 mpg) or the 2009 Inifiniti M45 (21 mpg). The recently announced return of the 2010 Ford Taurus SHO also will sport the EcoBoost V-6 and the six-speed SelectShift transmission, delivering an estimated 365 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 350 ft.-lbs. of torque at 3,500 rpm, while maintaining fuel economy ratings on par with a V-6 engine.

Other 2010 products set to offer this powertrain combination include the Ford Flex and Lincoln MKT.

High Torque Edits
The 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine strategically uses two small turbochargers, which are quick to respond to throttle inputs, spooling up instantly for torque output that”s impressive ““ peaking earlier in the rev range than a comparable, normally aspirated engine. The turbo system does, however, run at higher temperatures.

In order to handle the elevated operating temperatures associated with a turbocharged engine and carry the higher torque produced by the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6, the 6F-55 incorporates a blend of hardware, material and calibration upgrades.

The transmission features, for example, wider, thicker transfer and final drive gears, improved input and output carriers, and a new differential case to carry the higher energy produced by the engine and deliver the performance customers expect when they accelerate. The ring gear on the 6F-55, for instance, is a beefier 41.5 mm versus 31.5 mm on the 6F-50.

Final drive ratios have been adjusted and matched to gear ratios to provide optimum performance and fuel economy. Clutches also have been upgraded with high-energy friction materials that can handle higher loads and shift energies over the long term. In addition, clutch piston material upgrades can withstand higher operating temperatures. This, along with thicker thrust washers, and an improved heat treatment on the turbine shaft help handle the higher engine torque.

“We had to bulk up and strengthen all of the transmission”s core parts for higher duty cycles,” said David Capoccia, transmission system manager, Ford Powertrain Operations. “The thicker gears, the improved carriers, upgraded clutches are all part of a set of hardware actions that translate to superior performance and durability for the customer.”

The 6F-55″s torque converter was also tweaked to improve drivability and create a more connected feel for customers. The converter even has its own exclusive efficiency curve and design for increased strength and durability, bolstered by four lugs welded on the cover in comparison to three on the 6F-50.

A second roll restrictor boss, which limits powertrain movement during acceleration, was also added to the Lincoln MKS and MKT EcoBoost transmission packages for superior noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) and a smooth, seamless acceleration experience.

Fuel Economy Factors
The 6F-55 may be bigger and stronger, but it is not less efficient, according to Capoccia. Several of the transmission upgrades actually help improve fuel efficiency. They include:

    – Friction material grooves, which break up the fluid flow between the friction and separator plates and help pump fluid through the plates, have been optimized to reduce overall clutch drag losses.
    – Moving from a six to a nine wave CBLR (Clutch Brake Low Reverse) spring ““ which aids in mechanically separating the clutch plates ““ provides a flow path for the fluid that reduces overall clutch drag losses.
    – Calibration measures, such as reducing the modulated slip from 40 rpm to 20 rpm allows less fuel to be burned to deliver the same torque to the wheels; and locking up the torque converter in lower gears to expand the operating range and provide optimum fuel efficiency.
    – Increasing the start-to-open temperature of the bypass valve by 15 degrees, which allows the transmission to run at higher, more efficient temperatures and save fuel.

A High-Volume Commitment
The addition of the 6F-55 builds on the reputation of Ford”s 6F transmission architecture.
And like the 6F-50, the 6F-55 offers customers all the benefits associated with an advanced six-speed gearbox, including superior shift quality, improved acceleration, a more refined driving experience and improved fuel economy. In addition, the SelectShift feature allows the customer to choose gears for a more spirited drive.

“The 6F-55 has all the same features that customers have told us they desire from the 6F-50 transmission, and that includes fluid-fill for life and flat tow capability,” adds Bryce Bollwahn, a systems supervisor at Ford”s Automatic Transmission New Product Center.

Going forward, advanced six-speed transmissions, along with EcoBoost engine technology, will continue to dominate Ford”s sustainability strategy. By the end of 2012, nearly 100 percent of Ford”s North American transmissions will be advanced six-speed gearboxes. By 2013, more than 90 percent of Ford”s North American vehicle lineup will offer EcoBoost technology.

The 6F-55 is produced at Ford”s Van Dyke Transmission Plant in Sterling Heights, Mich., which also produces the 6F-50 and 6F-35. The Van Dyke plant is one of three Ford six-speed transmission Centers of Excellence.

Hennessey Performance has announced that it is working on a tuning package for the new 2010 Ford Taurus SHO.

Details are being kept quiet for now but Hennessey says that upgrades will include a new exhaust, air filter, boost controller, boost gauges, turbo upgrades, intercooler upgrades, suspension and more.

The 2010 Ford Taurus SHO is powered by a 3.5L twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 making 365-hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. Sales will start later this year with a starting price tag of $37,995.

2010 Ford Taurus SHO: 

The new 2010 Ford Taurus SHO is out of the bag with a new 3.5L twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 making 365-hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. We have just uploaded a video of the 2010 Taurus SHO in action which you can check out after the jump.

The 2010 Ford Taurus SHO will be available to purchase later this summer with prices starting at $37,995. Check out our original 2010 Taurus SHO post here for more details.

Click through for the video.

2010 Ford Taurus SHO: 

2010 Ford Taurus SHO in Action:

After all the speculations and all the spy shots, Ford has dropped the details and images of the 2010 Ford Taurus SHO prior to its 2009 Chicago Auto Show debut. That’s right folks; the Taurus Super High Output is back after attracting more than 100,000 buyers through its 1989 to 1999 life span.

So what’s under the hood? While your base 2010 Taurus model will top out at 263-hp the new 3.5L twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 of the 2010 Taurus SHO is good for 365-hp at 5,500 rpm and 350 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm. The engine is mated to 6-speed 6F55 SelectShift transmission (with paddle-shifters) with a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system. The Taurus SHO also takes full advantage of a multi-link SR1 rear suspension design which enhances driver control.

Make the jump for more details and the high-res image gallery.

2010 Ford Taurus SHO: 

Standard features on the 2010 Ford Taurus SHO include 19-inch Goodyear Eagle tires, a decklid-mounted spoiler, twin chrome exhaust tips, Intelligent Access with Push Button Start and Ford SYNC.

For those looking for a little more, Ford is offering an SHO Performance Package that includes upgraded brake pads, recalibrated EPAs, a “Sport Mode” setting for the standard AdvanceTrac Electronic Stability Control and a shorter 3.16 to 1 final drive ratio for a boost in acceleration. 20-inch Goodyear Eagle F1 performance tires and premium painted wheels are also included. Buyers may also opt for a Reverse Camera System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Information System, Multi-Contour Seats with Active Motion, and a Sony Audio System with 12 speakers.

FoMoCo will make the 2010 Ford Taurus SHO at its Chicago assembly plant. Sales will begin later this summer with prices starting at $37,995.

2010 Ford Taurus SHO:

Press Release:

TAURUS SHO RETURNS WITH 365HP ECOBOOST V-6, PLUS ALL-WHEEL DRIVE, PADDLE-SHIFT SIX-SPEED GEARBOX

    – The Taurus SHO returns as the sporty version of Ford’s new flagship introducing a new generation of premium performance and fuel economy with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost™ V-6. This engine delivers V-8 levels of power ““ with an estimated 365 horsepower ““ without compromising its V-6 fuel economy
    – The 2010 Taurus SHO features an enhanced SelectShift® six-speed automatic transmission with control paddles mounted on the steering wheel, in combination with a sophisticated torque sensing all-wheel drive system, a sportier SHO interior, subtle exterior design cues and myriad technologies and features offered on Taurus
    – Taurus SHO will be available this summer, starting at $37,995, including destination fees

Chicago, Feb. 11, 2009 ““ One of America”s favorite “sleeper” performance cars returns to the Ford lineup, powered by a Super High Output (SHO) EcoBoost twin turbocharged engine. The Taurus SHO joins Ford”s growing lineup of performance vehicles for the 2010 model year, building on the legacy of the original, which earned a spot on the Car and Driver 10 Best list four years running.

“The new Taurus SHO delivers on the authentic sleeper sedan formula but adds all-new luxury-appointments, convenience features and technologies to an unsurpassed balance of power and fuel economy,” said Mark Fields, Ford”s president of The Americas. “This new sport derivative answers enthusiasts” calls for a premium Ford flagship sedan with even more attitude.”

Introduced in 1989, Taurus SHO was conceived as a discreet performance-oriented sports sedan, ideally suited to the automotive enthusiast needing the room and capability of a four-door full-size car. Produced through 1999, more than 100,000 were sold.

The original Taurus SHO generated a loyal following of owners and enthusiasts, with an active club more than 1,000 members strong, an online forum with more than 10,000 registered users and a Web site (bringbackthesho.com) specifically devoted to convincing Ford to resurrect the SHO. The 2010 Taurus product development team spent significant time listening to SHO enthusiasts.

EcoBoost™ Twin-Turbocharged Power

The foundation of the new 2010 Taurus SHO is a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V-6 engine. This advanced powerplant generates an estimated 365 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 350 ft.-lbs. of torque at 3,500 rpm, resulting in significantly improved power, torque and fuel economy compared with larger, normally aspirated engines. This also is Ford”s most powerful EcoBoost engine.

A key feature of this EcoBoost engine is gasoline direct injection. The direct injection of fuel into the cylinder during the intake stroke, as opposed to port-style injection to an externally mounted intake, produces a well-mixed air-fuel charge. Fuel vaporization during the intake stroke cools the incoming air, improving volumetric efficiency and lowers the likelihood of knock.

The results are improved throttle response, reduced cold start emissions characteristics and improved fuel economy. The cooled charge enables an increased compression ratio, improving efficiency at partial load, while the higher compression ratio allows for better volumetric efficiency under full load engine behavior. Customers will experience normally aspirated V-8 power, without compromising V-6 fuel economy.

The 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 also uses twin turbochargers, as opposed to a single unit. The reduced size of each turbocharger results in reduced internal inertia, allowing this advanced engine to avoid the “turbo lag” often prevalent in earlier-generation turbocharged applications. From the driver”s seat, the rewarding result is linear power delivery across a broad torque band from 1,500 through 5,500 rpm. Peak torque building quickly off idle ensures responsive acceleration from a standing start.

SelectShift with paddle controls and All-Wheel Drive

The new Taurus SHO driveline combines a high-capacity six-speed 6F55 SelectShift transmission with a sophisticated torque-sensing All-Wheel Drive System. These components work in harmony to deliver ample traction when putting EcoBoost power on the road. The six-speed transmission offers a wide array of gears to enable spirited acceleration, yet comfortable high-speed cruising, through a 2.77 to 1 final drive ratio.

SelectShift provides conventional automatic operation or a manual shift mode that gives the driver complete control over gear selection. For performance-minded drivers, paddle controls allow “match-rev” downshifts and will hold manually selected gears for precise control. Intuitively operated, a squeeze on either paddle will deliver an economical upshift under acceleration, while a gentle push forward brings a smooth downshift, synchronizing the engine and transmission speeds for responsive and positive engagement.

The Taurus SHO driveline is contemporized with the incorporation of a sophisticated All-Wheel Drive System that engages automatically and unobtrusively. The unit contains an advanced array of internal electromechanical clutches to efficiently distribute torque to the wheels with optimum traction. Standard all-wheel drive allows the Taurus SHO to efficiently deliver its high performance to the pavement under a wide variety of conditions.

“Taurus SHO suspension and steering have been sport-tuned to provide discriminating drivers with precise control, confident handling, communicative feedback and a compliant ride,” said Pete Reyes, Taurus chief engineer.

Taurus SHO features an advanced electronic power-assisted steering (EPAS) system, providing responsive road feel and enhanced on-center balance while offering the additional benefit of increased fuel economy. SHO also features a sport-tuned suspension with unique shock absorbers, springs, stabilizer bars and strut mount bushings specifically developed and harmonized to deliver the highest level of Ford DNA road holding, cornering agility and steering responsiveness available in a Blue Oval full-size sedan.

Taurus SHO takes full advantage of the multi-link SR1 rear suspension design. Named for the 1:1 shock absorber ratio, this configuration provides an inherently stable baseline for the SHO development team to fine tune for enhanced driver control and agility. In addition, the SR1 rear suspension geometry provides increased travel, while enabling the use of 19- and 20-inch wheels and tires.

For the discriminating automotive enthusiast, Taurus SHO offers an available SHO Performance Package consisting of upgraded brake pads, recalibrated EPAS for even more responsiveness,
a “Sport Mode” setting for the standard AdvanceTrac® Electronic Stability Control and a shorter 3.16 to 1 final drive ratio for faster acceleration. Summer-compound 20-inch Goodyear Eagle F1 performance tires on premium painted wheels also are included.

SHO Specific Subtlety

A key element of the authentic SHO formula is the subtlety of its unique exterior design cues. Features include sporty premium painted wheels, wrapped in standard low-profile 19-inch Goodyear Eagle or optional 20-inch Michelin high-performance tires, a decklid-mounted spoiler and twin chrome exhaust tips. SHO also features a uniquely finished interpretation of the Ford signature three-bar grille with SHO-specific parking lamp bezels.

“Taurus SHO was always a stealth high-performance car,” said Earl Lucas, exterior design manager. “The new SHO builds on the expressive design of the 2010 Taurus, adding subtle cues that set it apart.”

The 2010 SHO is available in a wide range of new Taurus colors including Atlantis Green Metallic, a unique SHO color inspired by the iconic Deep Emerald Green hue appearing in 1991.

The new Taurus SHO interior encourages performance driving. Leather-trimmed seats with Miko Suede inserts, made from recycled post-consumer yarns from plastic soft drink bottles, are comfortable and luxurious. A perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel puts the driver in smooth touch with the road. Front seats are 10-way power adjustable. SHO accelerator and brake pedals are trimmed in aluminum. The console, instrument and door panels feature SHO-specific authentic aluminum appliqués. SHO branding appears on the unique floor mats, and on the passenger side of the instrument panel.

Taurus SHO: Performance and Convenience

The 2010 Taurus SHO offers an impressive array of standard convenience features as well as optional features and content. Standard Taurus SHO amenities include:

Intelligent Access with Push Button Start, a new Taurus feature allowing drivers to enter the car and start the engine without using a conventional key. Drivers simply carry the fob as they approach the vehicle, touch the SecuriCode™ keyless entry keypad, open the door and enter, apply pressure on brake pedal and push a button to start the engine.

MyKey allows enthusiasts to activate a restricted driving mode, persistent Belt-Minder® safety belt reminder, audio system volume limits, an earlier low-fuel warning, and consistently-engaged AdvanceTrac® stability control. The top vehicle speed can be limited to 80 mph, and speed chimes can be programmed to engage at 45, 55 or 65 mph further protecting their investment.

Easy Fuel™ Capless Fuel Filler System, a unique feature that eliminates the need for a traditional fuel cap. Easy Fuel is a hassle-free solution that provides a consistent self-seal after every refueling.

Ford SYNC® is the fully integrated, in-vehicle voice-activated communications and entertainment system standard on Taurus SHO. The system combines 911 Assist, Vehicle Health Report and GPS-based features including business search and call completion. SYNC connects to MP3 players, iPods, memory sticks and PDAs. The latest version of SYNC in the Taurus SHO adds Traffic, Directions and Information, providing turn-by-turn route guidance and the capability to access and personalize content.

Ambient Lighting allows the Taurus SHO driver to program interior lighting from a choice of five soothing colors to suit any character or preference.

The 2010 Taurus SHO comes standard with the full array of active and passive safety equipment and features offered across the Taurus range.

Available options on the 2010 Taurus SHO include:

Reverse Camera System, a unique SHO option, activates when reverse gear is selected providing the driver with additional rear visibility, projecting on the windscreen mounted rearview mirror.

Adaptive Cruise Control, which allows the driver to set the Taurus SHO cruising speed while using radar technology to monitor traffic travelling up to 600 feet ahead, automatically adjusting speed to help maintain a preset distance between vehicles. Adaptive Cruise Control comes with Collision Warning with Brake Support providing visible and audible warnings when slower traffic is detected ahead. Brake support is activated if the driver does not respond to provided warnings, and pre-charges the brake system to prepare the vehicle for stopping.

Blind Spot Information System (BLIS™) with Cross Traffic Alert consists of two multiple beam radar modules, one each per rear quarter panel. When an adjacent vehicle enters the defined blind spot zone, and indicator alert provides driver warning in the corresponding sideview mirror.

Cross Traffic Alert uses existing BLIS radar modules to sense oncoming traffic while the Taurus SHO is slowly backed from a parking space. When cross traffic appears within three car widths, the system provides a visible message on the instrument panel in combination with a sideview mirror warning and an audible signal.

Multi-Contour Seats with Active Motion™ can be specified in conjunction with heated and cooled first-row positions in the new Taurus SHO. Multi-Contour functionality provides subtle but continuous massage to help prevent back pain and fatigue and is ideally suited to meet the needs of long-distance drivers.

Voice-Activated Navigation System includes a 10 GB music juke box hard drive and a single CD/DVD player. When combined with the optional rear camera system, rearview projection appears on the centerstack-mounted navigation screen.

Sony Audio System offers 12 speakers, a digital amplifier, 390 Watts of continuous power (RMS), 115 dB of maximum bass sound pressure level and Dolby® Pro Logic® II surround technology.

The 2010 Taurus SHO will be built at Ford”s Chicago (Ill.) assembly plant and will be available in dealerships this summer, starting at a base price of $37,995, including destination.

Big fans of the SHO, BringBackTheSHO.com, have spotted an overly aggressive looking 2010 Ford Taurus along I-75 in Michigan. The pictures hint that Ford is working on a new SHO model for the 2010 Taurus.

While it’s not confirmed that The Taurus in the pictures is an SHO model, it does feature upgrades such as a dual exhaust system, a rear deck spoiler, and larger wheels. The rear picture of the car also shows a badge covered in tape which may be an SHO badge.

A 2009 Chicago Auto Show debut for the 2010 Ford Taurus SHO model is expected.

Spy Shots: 2010 Ford Taurus SHO:

Source: BringBackTheSHO.com (via Jalopnik)