The 2013 Ford Taurus is new, though it isn't all-new. It's not a new generation, just the current generation at its peak. This latest Taurus has many significant changes for the 2013 model year, all good so far as we can see, from powertrain to interior to exterior, in that order. Three engines are available for the 2013 Taurus.

The standard 3.5-liter V6 engine has been updated for 2013 for improved fuel economy, increased power and lower emissions. It's called TI-VCT, for Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing, a system that precisely times the valve openings to increase power, throttle response and fuel mileage, while reducing emissions. As a result, the 2013 Taurus gets an EPA-estimated 19/29 miles per gallon City/Highway with front-wheel drive, 18/26 mpg with all-wheel drive. The 3.5-liter V6 with Ti-VCT now makes 288 horsepower, a boost of 25 horsepower over the previous model.

A new EcoBoost 2.0-liter engine expected to get 31 miles per gallon on the highway is an option, though not initially. The turbocharged, direct-injection 2.0-liter four-cylinder is rated at 240 horsepower, 270 foot-pounds of torque at 3000 rpm. Keeping in mind that the Taurus is a full-sized car, these numbers make a statement about Ford's commitment to improved fuel mileage with increased power.

The twin-turbo EcoBoost 3.5-liter V6 that comes in the 2013 Taurus SHO has been pumped up to 365 horsepower and 350 foot-pounds of torque beginning at a super-low 1500 rpm. SHO stands for Super High Output and this engine lives up to the moniker. The 2013 Taurus SHO engine delivers 17/25 mpg, according to the EPA. Premium fuel is recommended. We got 19.4 mpg running it fairly casually in the city, on a freeway, and on two-lanes; and 17.6 mpg running it hard on a twisty two-lane.

2013 Ford Taurus Review