2013 Ford Taurus Priced from $39,995 in the US
Ford has set the starting price for its refreshed 2013 Taurus at $39,995, reflecting new features, a revised engine range and chassis upgrades.
Ford has confirmed the entry price for the 2013 Taurus at $39,995 in the United States, which includes a $750 destination charge. This makes the refreshed saloon $1,045 more expensive than the outgoing model, reflecting a series of updates to both its hardware and specification. The price places the Taurus above some key rivals in the full-size segment, such as the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu, which launched at $25,995, and the 2013 Cadillac ATS, which started at $33,990. The higher entry price is explained by the Taurus’s larger size and a higher level of standard equipment, especially in upper trims and when fitted with the performance package.
2013 Ford Taurus: Pricing and Positioning
Engine Options and Performance
The 2013 Taurus arrives with a choice of updated powertrains. The range-topping SHO model is powered by a 3.5-litre V6 EcoBoost engine producing 365 horsepower, paired with all-wheel drive and Ford’s SelectShift automatic gearbox. This combination is aimed at drivers seeking strong performance in a full-size saloon.
A significant change for 2013 is the introduction of a 2.0-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, rated at 237 horsepower. This new engine is focused on efficiency, with Ford targeting 31 miles per gallon on the highway. The addition of the 2.0-litre EcoBoost broadens the Taurus’s appeal, offering buyers improved fuel economy without the need to downsize to a smaller vehicle. The engine lineup allows Ford to compete with other manufacturers who are introducing turbocharged four-cylinder engines in larger saloons.
Chassis and Brake System Upgrades
For 2013, all Taurus variants benefit from significant chassis and braking improvements. Every model receives a larger brake master cylinder and revised booster tuning. According to Ford, these changes improve pedal feel and reduce pedal travel, enhancing the overall driving experience. Additionally, the brake friction material has been upgraded to resist fade and provide better performance during repeated hard stops. These updates are designed to offer drivers greater confidence and control, particularly under demanding conditions.
Performance Package Details
Buyers interested in sharper handling and enhanced dynamics can opt for a new performance package. This package adds track-tuned brake calipers, performance brake pads, a sport-tuned suspension setup, and painted 20-inch alloy wheels. Further optional extras include an extreme duty cooling system, electronic stability control with a full off mode, and summer-compound tyres optimised for grip in warm weather. These features are aimed at enthusiasts who want more from their full-size saloon.
Efficiency Focus: EcoBoost Four-Cylinder
The arrival of the 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine marks a shift in Ford’s approach to efficiency in the Taurus lineup. This engine targets 31 mpg on the highway, making it a strong contender for buyers who prioritise lower fuel consumption but still require the space and comfort of a large saloon. Ford’s decision to introduce this engine reflects a wider trend in the industry, where downsized turbocharged engines are becoming more common as manufacturers seek to balance performance with stricter fuel economy standards.
Comparisons and Market Context
The 2013 Taurus’s pricing and specification updates follow Ford’s strategy of pushing more advanced technology and improved driving dynamics into its full-size saloon. By offering both powerful and efficient engine options, as well as a range of performance and comfort features, Ford aims to attract a broader range of buyers. The Taurus is positioned as a more premium alternative to mainstream large saloons, with its higher price justified by the inclusion of advanced features and performance upgrades.
For those considering efficiency, the EcoBoost four-cylinder variant provides a direct competitor to other large saloons with similar engine technology. The Taurus’s combination of size, performance, and efficiency makes it a noteworthy option in the segment, especially for buyers who do not want to compromise on space or comfort.
Summary of Key Features
- $39,995 starting price includes destination charge
- Price increase of $1,045 over previous model year
- Choice of 3.5-litre V6 EcoBoost (365 HP) or new 2.0-litre EcoBoost (237 HP)
- All-wheel drive and SelectShift automatic gearbox available
- Performance package with uprated brakes, suspension, and 20-inch wheels
- Chassis and brake system upgrades across all models
- EcoBoost four-cylinder targets 31 mpg highway
