23 MPG combined is the number that either seals the deal or breaks it for potential 2015 Ford Taurus buyers. This isn’t a compact sedan chasing hypermiling records. This is a large, comfortable, and traditionally styled sedan aimed at those who prioritize space and a smooth ride over outright fuel efficiency. The 3.5L V6 provides plenty of power for confident highway merging and effortless cruising, but that performance costs more at the pump.

City and highway performance

The 2015 Ford Taurus with the 3.5L V6 and front-wheel drive gets 19 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect what you sacrifice with a larger, naturally aspirated engine. The city MPG suggests that stop-and-go traffic will noticeably impact your fuel consumption. The 28 MPG highway figure is respectable for its class and suggests it’s a comfortable long-distance cruiser, where it can stretch a gallon of fuel a bit further.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Ford Taurus FWD 3.5L 6-cyl at precisely $1,900. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price. This figure provides a standardized benchmark for comparing fuel expenses across different vehicles, but remember that your actual costs may vary depending on your driving habits and local gas prices. Also, this figure represents the cost of regular unleaded fuel, which is what the Taurus is designed to use.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world MPG for the 2015 Taurus will vary. Drivers who frequently encounter heavy traffic, accelerate quickly, or primarily use the car for short trips will likely see figures closer to the 19 MPG city rating, or even slightly below. On the other hand, drivers who accelerate smoothly, maintain consistent speeds on the highway, and minimize idling may be able to approach or even slightly exceed the 28 MPG highway figure. The S6 automatic transmission helps manage the engine’s power effectively, but it’s still up to the driver to be mindful of their driving style.

How it compares

In 2015, the large sedan segment offered a range of fuel economy options. Other V6 powered competitors include the Toyota Avalon, which gets a combined 25 MPG. The Kia Cadenza, another large sedan, delivers 23 MPG combined. For a broader look at efficiency in this class, you can view all Ford fuel economy data. Buyers considering the Taurus are likely also looking at cars in the full-size class such as the Chevrolet Impala, even though both models offer similar mpg. The Chrysler 300, when equipped with its 3.6L V6 and rear-wheel drive, managed 23 MPG combined. These comparisons show that the Taurus’s fuel economy isn’t class-leading, and prospective buyers often trade some efficiency for the Taurus’s spaciousness and reputation for reliability. However, be sure to compare the TAURUS MPG across all years to ensure that the 2015 model year fits into your needs.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One of the most effective ways to improve fuel economy in the 2015 Ford Taurus is to drive smoothly and gradually. Avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking, as these actions consume significantly more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible.

Correct tire inflation is critical for optimizing fuel efficiency. Check your tires regularly to be sure they are inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Keeping your tires properly inflated, especially on those long highway cruises, can make a tangible difference.

Excess weight in the vehicle will negatively impact fuel efficiency. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger compartment. The less weight the engine has to move, the less fuel it will consume. This is especially relevant for those who use the Taurus for family road trips, pack smart and avoid excess baggage carried at all times.

Regular maintenance is important for maintaining optimal fuel economy. Ensure that the engine is properly tuned, the air filter is clean, and the oil is changed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. A well-maintained engine will run more efficiently and consume less fuel.