19 MPG combined isn’t going to set any fuel economy records, but the 2018 Ford Taurus AWD with the 3.5L V6 wasn’t built to win efficiency awards. It’s a large sedan that prioritizes space, comfort, and all-weather capability, and it serves its mission well for those who value these attributes over class-leading fuel sipping. This specific configuration is for drivers needing confident traction in snow or rain, and who are less concerned with maximizing every last mile per gallon.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates offer a glimpse into the Taurus’s performance in different driving conditions. 16 MPG in the city reflects the demands placed on the engine as it navigates stop-and-go traffic, hauling a significant amount of weight with each acceleration. The 24 MPG highway rating is more respectable, suggesting that the Taurus is a comfortable and relatively efficient long-distance cruiser, especially when allowed to maintain a steady speed. This spread in figures highlights the importance of considering your typical driving environment. If your daily commute is primarily urban, the city number becomes far more relevant than the highway figure.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Ford Taurus AWD to be $2,300. This assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year, with fuel prices based on the national average. It’s a useful benchmark for comparing the Taurus to other vehicles, and understanding its potential impact on your budget. Remember that your actual fuel expenses will vary depending on how much you drive, where you drive, and the ever-fluctuating price of gasoline. Personal driving styles also greatly impact this number.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, it’s wise to consider real-world experiences. Many drivers find that their actual fuel economy falls slightly below the EPA estimates, especially in mixed driving conditions. Factors like aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, carrying heavy loads, and even weather conditions can impact fuel consumption. Tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and roof racks all affect the final miles per gallon.

The Taurus responds well to consistent driving habits, and drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration and anticipation of traffic conditions will likely see results closer to the EPA figures. If the AWD system is engaged frequently in poor conditions, anticipate fuel economy to dip.

How it compares

The 2018 Ford Taurus AWD 3.5L 6-cyl exists in a segment where fuel economy isn’t always the primary concern, but shoppers still compare. A 2018 Toyota Avalon, for instance, achieves a combined rating of 25 MPG, offering a significant improvement in fuel efficiency over the Taurus. Similarly, a comparable 2018 Chrysler 300 with AWD can achieve around 21 MPG combined. These differences matter to budget-conscious buyers. However, the Taurus might offer advantages in areas like interior space, specific feature availability, or even price point. Potential buyers need to determine if the fuel cost justifies the specific advantages.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is important. The 3.5L V6 in the Taurus delivers ample power, but aggressive use of the accelerator dramatically increases fuel consumption. Practice anticipating traffic flow and avoid unnecessary bursts of speed. Smooth, gradual acceleration will yield noticeable gains in fuel efficiency.

Tire pressure is often overlooked, but correctly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, which in turn improves fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, and inflate them to the recommended level found on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb, not the maximum pressure listed on the tire itself.

Avoid prolonged idling. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling consumes fuel without adding to your mileage. This is especially important in urban environments with frequent stops.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Hauling around heavy items in the trunk reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary cargo. Even a few extra pounds can add up over time and impact your MPG, especially when combined with city driving. Evaluate all Ford fuel economy data to get a feel for how different vehicles and driving styles can add up.

Consider using cruise control on long highway drives. Maintaining a steady speed helps the engine operate at its most efficient, minimizing fuel consumption. Be mindful of road conditions and disengage cruise control in heavy traffic or inclement weather. Also, study TAURUS MPG across all years to see whether this model year stacks up well against the rest.