23 MPG combined in the 2016 Ford Taurus FWD 2.0L isn’t going to win any fuel-sipping contests, but it’s a perfectly justifiable number for what this car is: a big, comfortable, traditionally styled American sedan. The Taurus occupies a unique space in the market. It’s not chasing sportiness or cutting-edge design. It’s offering spaciousness and familiar comfort, primarily to buyers who prioritize those qualities over outright fuel efficiency. Think of drivers who appreciate a smooth ride and ample passenger space, or fleet managers who value reliability and ease of maintenance. They are willing to trade a few MPG for the Taurus’s other strengths.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 Taurus 2.0L break down to 20 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city figure is predictably lower, reflecting the stop-and-go driving conditions that take a toll on any engine. The 2.0L EcoBoost, while turbocharged, still has to work harder to get the Taurus moving from a standstill, especially with the car’s considerable weight. The 29 MPG highway rating is where the 2.0L performs best. Once you’re up to speed, the engine settles into a more efficient cruise, and the six-speed automatic transmission helps optimize fuel consumption at higher speeds. Remember that these are laboratory figures and depend on a light foot.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Ford Taurus FWD 2.0L at $1,900 per year. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using the EPA’s combined MPG rating of 23, and assuming a national average fuel price. Your actual fuel costs may be higher or lower depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (city vs. highway), and local fuel prices. A driver who primarily commutes in stop-and-go traffic will almost certainly exceed this estimate, while someone who spends most of their time on the open highway could potentially spend less.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a benchmark, real-world fuel economy often varies, and factors such as driving style, traffic conditions, and even tire pressure can impact your MPG. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and prolonged idling will all decrease fuel efficiency. Properly inflated tires, regular maintenance, and smoother driving habits can help you achieve closer to the EPA estimates. Pay attention to the instant MPG readout in the instrument cluster; this is a good way to learn how your driving habits affect fuel consumption.

How it compares

When comparing the 2016 Taurus 2.0L to its competitors, fuel economy is a mixed bag. A similarly sized and equipped 2016 Chevrolet Impala with its standard 2.5L 4-cylinder manages around 25 MPG combined, offering a slight advantage. The Toyota Avalon, another comfortable large sedan, achieves approximately 24 MPG combined with its V6 engine. Stepping down in size, a mid-size sedan like the 2016 Honda Accord with its 2.4L 4-cylinder achieves a noticeably better 31 MPG combined. For the Taurus buyer, though, these differences may not be deal-breakers. They prioritize the Taurus’s size and traditional sedan feel, accepting the fuel economy trade-off. Comparing TAURUS MPG across all years shows how Ford has evolved the car’s efficiency over time. You also can find all Ford fuel economy data easily.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The turbocharged 2.0L EcoBoost four-cylinder in the 2016 Taurus responds well to gentle throttle inputs. Avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking to conserve fuel. Think ahead and anticipate traffic flow, allowing you to maintain a more consistent speed. The engine does offer reasonable torque, so it doesn’t need to be floored every time you need a little extra power.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy, and can affect handling.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Extra weight puts a strain on the engine, reducing fuel efficiency. Remove any items you don’t need from the trunk and passenger compartment. A lighter vehicle consumes less fuel.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and reliably, so there’s no need to idle unnecessarily.

Use cruise control on the highway whenever possible. Maintaining a consistent speed helps optimize fuel economy. Cruise control minimizes variations in throttle input, resulting in more efficient fuel consumption and a more relaxing driving experience on long journeys.