21 MPG combined isn’t going to win any eco-car awards, but for the 2015 Ford Taurus AWD FFV with the 3.5L V6, it’s what you can expect. This isn’t a car designed for hypermilers, it’s a large, comfortable sedan with the added security of all-wheel drive and the option to run on E85 fuel. Buyers choose this Taurus for its spacious interior, smooth ride, and confident handling in all weather conditions, fuel economy is a secondary consideration.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates suggest 18 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the character of this particular Taurus. City driving, with its stop-and-go nature, reduces fuel economy, as the V6 engine works harder to move the car’s weight. The highway figure, however, is more respectable. Cruising at a steady speed, the Taurus settles into a comfortable rhythm, showing the benefits of its six-speed automatic transmission. Those 26 MPG are achievable, but require a light foot and restrained acceleration. Remember, the all-wheel-drive system adds weight and complexity, slightly reducing fuel economy compared to front-wheel-drive models. If you prioritize fuel savings over all-weather capability, consider a FWD Taurus.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,100 for the 2015 Ford Taurus AWD FFV 3.5L. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and assumes the use of gasoline priced at the national average. It’s a useful benchmark, but individual fuel costs will vary based on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the proportion of E85 fuel used. Expect to spend more if you have a heavy foot or live in an area with high fuel costs. Frugal driving and lower-than-average fuel prices could reduce your annual expenses.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a baseline, real-world mileage can vary. Drivers who frequently accelerate aggressively or spend a significant amount of time idling are likely to see lower fuel economy. This is especially true when using the Taurus’s power for rapid merging or passing. The inclusion of all-wheel drive also slightly reduces fuel efficiency compared to front-wheel-drive models, as the system adds weight and driveline friction. Don’t expect hybrid-like numbers from this car. This platform has more to offer in driving dynamics than fuel savings. Remember you can review all Ford fuel economy data here on FuelEconomyHub.com.

How it compares

Compared to its contemporaries, the 2015 Ford Taurus AWD FFV’s fuel economy is typical for a large sedan with all-wheel drive. The 2015 Chrysler 300C AWD, for example, delivers EPA estimates of 18 MPG city and 27 MPG highway with its 5.7L V8 engine, a slightly higher highway number but at the cost of even worse city mileage. The Toyota Avalon, while not offered with all-wheel drive, achieves significantly better fuel economy in its front-wheel-drive configuration, offering up to 21 MPG city and 31 MPG highway. Buyers considering the Taurus often accept the slightly lower fuel economy in exchange for its spaciousness, all-wheel-drive confidence, and distinctive styling. For a broader view, check TAURUS MPG across all years. The Nissan Maxima that model year provided similar MPGs, at 22 combined, but without the option of all-wheel drive.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Taurus is a large car, and requires more energy to get moving. Gentle acceleration from a stop and anticipating traffic conditions to avoid hard braking will significantly improve city fuel economy. The V6 responds well to a light foot, don’t push it harder than necessary.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Tires with low rolling resistance will give a further boost to mileage.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. The starter is reliable, and this habit will pay dividends over the life of the vehicle. Avoid using remote start unless necessary to warm or cool the cabin, as it only burns fuel.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a steady speed on the highway with cruise control can help optimize fuel economy. However, be mindful of hills, as the cruise control may downshift aggressively to maintain speed, negating any potential fuel savings.

Take advantage of the flex-fuel capability judiciously. While E85 fuel may be cheaper per gallon, be aware that it typically reduces fuel economy by a noticeable margin, expect a 15-25% drop in MPG. Only use E85 if the price difference compensates for the reduced mileage, otherwise, stick to regular gasoline. E85 is available at limited stations, so consider this as a way to save on fuel costs.