The 2016 Ford Taurus occupies a unique position in the history of the American full-size sedan. Released during an era when the market was beginning its aggressive shift toward crossovers and SUVs, the Taurus remained a steadfast representative of the traditional "big car" philosophy. It was built for the highway, designed with a focus on cruising comfort, straight-line stability, and a presence that commanded space. For the 2016 model year, Ford didn't reinvent the wheel, but they did implement one critical upgrade that makes this specific year one of the most desirable on the used market: the introduction of the SYNC 3 infotainment system.

While the Taurus has since been discontinued in the North American market, the 2016 model continues to be a popular choice for buyers looking for a substantial vehicle that offers more isolation from the road than a compact car, without the high price tag of a modern SUV. Understanding what makes this vehicle tick requires looking past its sheer physical dimensions and into the mechanical diversity and interior quirks that defined Ford’s flagship sedan.

The Powerplant Trio: Choosing the Right Engine for the Job

One of the most significant advantages of the 2016 Ford Taurus was its diverse engine lineup. Ford offered three distinct powerplants, each catering to a different type of driver, ranging from the fuel-conscious commuter to the high-performance enthusiast.

The Workhorse: 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V6

The standard engine across the SE, SEL, and Limited trims was the naturally aspirated 3.5-liter Duratec V6. Producing 288 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque, this engine was the backbone of the Taurus fleet. In real-world driving, this V6 provides linear, predictable power. It is perfectly adequate for merging onto highways and maintaining speed under a full load of passengers.

From a mechanical perspective, the Duratec 35 is generally regarded as a robust engine, though experienced owners often point out one specific maintenance item: the internal water pump. Because the water pump is driven by the timing chain inside the engine, a failure can potentially leak coolant into the oil. For someone looking at a used 2016 model with over 100,000 miles, checking the service history for water pump replacement or signs of coolant contamination is a critical step that casual buyers often overlook.

The Efficient Alternative: 2.0-liter EcoBoost I4

For those who prioritized fuel economy without wanting to sacrifice too much torque, Ford offered the 2.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder as an option on front-wheel-drive SEL and Limited models. Generating 240 horsepower and a stout 270 lb-ft of torque, this engine actually feels punchier at low RPMs than the standard V6 due to the turbocharging.

However, it is important to note that the 2.0L EcoBoost was only available with front-wheel drive (FWD). If you live in a climate that necessitates all-wheel drive (AWD), you are forced to step up to the V6. While the EPA-rated 29 mpg on the highway was impressive for a car this size in 2016, real-world testing often showed that the small engine had to work quite hard to move the Taurus's nearly 4,000-pound curb weight, sometimes resulting in lower fuel efficiency than advertised.

The Performance Icon: 3.5-liter Twin-Turbo EcoBoost V6

Exclusive to the Taurus SHO (Super High Output), the twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 transformed the sedan into a "sleeper" performance car. With 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque delivered through a standard AWD system, the SHO could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 5.2 seconds. This engine turned a comfortable cruiser into a genuine highway interceptor, capable of surprising many much more expensive European sport sedans.

Analyzing the 2016 Trim Levels: From SE to SHO

Ford structured the 2016 Taurus lineup to cover a wide pricing spectrum. Each trim level offered a distinct jump in features, making it easy for buyers to find a balance between budget and luxury.

The SE Trim

The SE was the entry point, often found in rental fleets. It came standard with the 3.5L V6, a rearview camera, and the basic SYNC system (not the SYNC 3). While it offered the same physical space as higher trims, the interior relied heavily on cloth seating and manual climate controls. For a budget-conscious buyer, the SE provides the core Taurus experience—safety and size—without any unnecessary frills.

The SEL Trim

The SEL was the "sweet spot" for many consumers. It added dual-zone automatic climate control, SiriusXM satellite radio, and more premium interior materials. Crucially, the SEL opened the door to several significant options, including the SYNC 3 system, leather-trimmed seats, and the 20-inch wheel packages that significantly improved the car's visual stance.

The Limited Trim

The Limited trim pushed the Taurus into "near-luxury" territory. It featured perforated leather-trimmed seats that were both heated and cooled in the front, a heated steering wheel, and ambient interior lighting. It also included advanced safety features like the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) as standard. The Limited is distinguished by its more extensive use of chrome on the exterior and higher-quality soft-touch materials throughout the cabin.

The SHO (Super High Output)

Beyond the twin-turbo engine, the SHO trim included a sport-tuned suspension, steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, and unique interior trim. For the most demanding drivers, there was an available SHO Performance Package. This package added beefier brakes, a different steering calibration, a "track mode" for the stability control, and a shorter final drive ratio for even faster acceleration. The SHO is the only trim that truly mitigates the car's substantial weight through mechanical hardware.

The SYNC 3 Revolution: Why 2016 Was the Turning Point

For anyone researching a used Ford Taurus, the 2016 model year is significantly more valuable than the 2015 model for one primary reason: the retirement of MyFord Touch in favor of SYNC 3.

The previous MyFord Touch system was frequently criticized for being slow, unresponsive, and difficult to navigate while driving. SYNC 3 solved these issues with a capacitive touchscreen that behaved much more like a modern smartphone, supporting gestures like "pinch-to-zoom." It was also the first iteration to support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (though some early 2016 models required a minor hardware hub upgrade for CarPlay).

In our experience testing these systems over thousands of miles, the presence of SYNC 3 drastically improves the daily usability of the vehicle. Being able to run Google Maps or Waze directly on the dashboard screen keeps a 2016 vehicle feeling relevant in 2024 and beyond. If technology is a priority, the 2016 Taurus is the oldest year you should consider.

The Interior Paradox: Big Outside, Small Inside

The 2016 Ford Taurus is a massive vehicle. Measuring 202.9 inches in length, it is longer than many mid-size SUVs. However, the interior packaging of the Taurus is one of its most debated characteristics. Due to the thick door panels, a wide center console, and a steeply raked windshield, the cabin can feel surprisingly "cozy" or even "claustrophobic" to some drivers.

Passenger Space and Comfort

Front-seat passengers enjoy wide, supportive chairs that are excellent for long-distance travel. In the Limited and SHO trims, the available multicontour seats with Active Motion (a massage function) are a rare luxury in this price segment. They are designed to reduce fatigue on multi-hour road trips by subtly changing the pressure points in the seat back and cushion.

The rear seat, while comfortable, offers less legroom than competitors like the Chevrolet Impala or Toyota Avalon from the same year. The high beltline and thick pillars create a "cocoon" effect. While this contributes to a sense of security and quietness, it may feel restrictive for taller adults or those who prefer an airy, greenhouse-like cabin.

The 20.1 Cubic Foot Trunk

Where the Taurus wins the space war is behind the rear seats. The trunk offers a staggering 20.1 cubic feet of cargo volume. To put that into perspective, that is nearly 25% more space than most modern mid-size sedans. It is deep and wide enough to fit several large suitcases or two full-size golf bags with room to spare. For families who take road trips or individuals who need to carry significant gear without owning a truck, the Taurus trunk is a major selling point.

Driving Dynamics: A Heavyweight High-Speed Cruiser

Driving a 2016 Ford Taurus is an exercise in composure. The vehicle is built on Ford's D3 platform (shared with the Explorer), which provides a very rigid foundation. This rigidity, combined with extensive sound-deadening material, results in a remarkably quiet cabin. Wind and road noise are well-isolated, even at speeds exceeding 70 mph.

Steering and Handling

The steering is electrically power-assisted and provides a surprising amount of feedback for a car of this bulk. It doesn't feel overly light or "numb." While the car's weight is always present—especially during quick transitions or heavy braking—it remains flat and predictable through corners thanks to Torque Vectoring Control and Curve Control technology. These systems use the brakes to subtly manage the car's path, helping it turn more sharply than its size would suggest.

All-Wheel Drive Capability

The available AWD system in the SEL, Limited, and SHO is a front-biased system that can send power to the rear wheels when it detects slip. In our experience, this system is excellent for rain-slicked roads and light snow. However, for SHO owners, it is important to monitor the PTU (Power Transfer Unit). The PTU holds a small amount of gear oil that is subject to high heat due to its proximity to the exhaust. Changing this fluid every 30,000 to 50,000 miles is a "pro-tip" for ensuring the longevity of the AWD system, even though Ford originally termed it a "lifetime" fluid.

Safety and Reliability Ratings

Safety was a paramount concern for Ford with the 2016 Taurus. The vehicle earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It performed exceptionally well in frontal and side-impact crash tests.

Standard and Available Safety Tech

  • Standard: Every 2016 Taurus included a rearview camera, electronic stability control, and a full suite of airbags (front, side-impact, and side-curtain).
  • Available: Higher trims could be equipped with Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Lane-Keeping System, and Blind Spot Monitoring.

The Forward Collision Warning system in the 2016 model is not as advanced as today's autonomous emergency braking systems; it flashes a red light on the windshield and pre-charges the brakes but does not always bring the car to a full stop automatically. It acts more as a high-intensity alert for the driver.

Long-Term Reliability

The 2016 Taurus is generally considered a reliable vehicle. The 6F50 and 6F55 six-speed automatic transmissions are well-matched to the engines and do not suffer from the same "hunting" or "shuddering" issues found in some smaller Ford dual-clutch units. Beyond the aforementioned water pump and PTU considerations, common issues are mostly limited to electronic sensors or minor suspension wear, such as sway bar links, which are inexpensive to replace.

Used Market Valuation and Buying Advice

As of the current market, the 2016 Ford Taurus offers significant "bang for your buck." Because it was often overlooked in favor of SUVs, its depreciation was steeper than that of a Toyota Avalon, making it an excellent value for a second owner.

Pricing Expectations

  • SE/SEL: Depending on mileage and condition, these models often range between $8,000 and $12,000.
  • Limited: Well-maintained Limited models with SYNC 3 often command a premium, typically falling between $11,000 and $15,000.
  • SHO: The performance-oriented SHO maintains the highest value, with clean, lower-mileage examples often selling for $16,000 to $22,000.

What to Look for During a Test Drive

  1. Water Pump Weep Hole: On V6 models, look for signs of dried coolant or moisture near the front of the engine block.
  2. Transmission Shifts: Ensure the 6-speed automatic shifts smoothly. A hard "thunk" when engaging Reverse or Drive can indicate worn engine mounts rather than a bad transmission.
  3. SYNC 3 Functionality: Verify that the screen responds quickly to touch and that the USB ports successfully connect to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
  4. Tire Wear: Because the Taurus is heavy, it can be hard on tires. Uneven wear may indicate the need for an alignment or new struts.

Summary of the 2016 Ford Taurus Experience

The 2016 Ford Taurus is a car that knows exactly what it is: a large, safe, and comfortable American sedan. It doesn't pretend to be a canyon carver (except perhaps in SHO trim), nor does it try to compete with the fuel economy of a hybrid. Instead, it offers a sense of "solidity" that is becoming increasingly rare.

If you value a quiet ride, a massive trunk for your belongings, and the modern convenience of the SYNC 3 system, the 2016 Taurus is a standout choice in the used car market. It represents the final, most refined version of this generation's platform before the nameplate was retired, making it a reliable and dignified way to travel.

FAQ

Is the 2016 Ford Taurus good in snow? Yes, especially when equipped with the available All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system. Even the front-wheel-drive models perform well due to their heavy curb weight, which helps provide traction, though dedicated winter tires are always recommended for icy conditions.

Does the 2016 Ford Taurus have Apple CarPlay? Yes, the 2016 model was the first to feature the SYNC 3 system, which supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Note that early production models may require a simple USB hub hardware update to enable CarPlay functionality.

What is the "SHO" in Ford Taurus SHO? SHO stands for "Super High Output." It refers to the high-performance variant of the Taurus that features a twin-turbocharged V6 engine, all-wheel drive, and a sport-tuned suspension.

How long will a 2016 Ford Taurus last? With proper maintenance, specifically staying on top of oil changes and cooling system health, a 2016 Taurus can easily exceed 200,000 miles. The drivetrain is proven and shared with many other Ford fleet vehicles, ensuring parts are affordable and mechanics are familiar with the repairs.

What are the main competitors for the 2016 Taurus? Its primary rivals in 2016 were the Chevrolet Impala, Toyota Avalon, Dodge Charger, and Chrysler 300. The Taurus was often cited as having the best trunk space but less rear-seat legroom than the Impala or Avalon.

Which engine is the most reliable in the 2016 Taurus? The standard 3.5L Ti-VCT V6 is generally considered the most reliable due to its lack of turbochargers, which reduces complexity. However, the 2.0L EcoBoost and 3.5L Twin-Turbo are also solid engines if they have been maintained with high-quality synthetic oil.