19 MPG combined is the figure associated with the 2017 Ford Taurus AWD 3.5L. It’s a number that requires justification and might begin a conversation about its capabilities. This isn’t a vehicle for those who prioritize efficiency above all else. It’s a full-size sedan, often chosen for its spaciousness, comfortable ride, and the sure-footedness of all-wheel drive, features that affect fuel economy. The Taurus buyer prioritizes interior volume, trunk space, and a solid feel on the road over fuel efficiency.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2017 Taurus AWD with the 3.5L V6 are 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects inefficiencies in stop-and-go traffic, where the car’s weight and the engine’s need to overcome inertia matter. The highway number, while better, is still modest. A six-speed automatic transmission, while competent, has fewer gears than newer transmissions designed to maximize fuel economy at cruising speeds. This drivetrain favors smooth power delivery over efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Ford Taurus AWD 3.5L at $2,300. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and assumes national average fuel prices. This is a meaningful expense, especially compared to more fuel-efficient cars. Car buyers can view the all Ford fuel economy data to be sure they are happy with the estimated yearly cost.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a benchmark, real-world fuel economy varies depending on driving habits, terrain, and climate. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and extended idling will diminish fuel economy. Hilly terrain and cold weather, which increases engine friction and reduces tire pressure, will also have a negative impact. Therefore, view the EPA estimates as a guideline and consider your individual driving conditions when assessing the Taurus’s potential fuel consumption.

How it compares

The 2017 Taurus’s fuel economy is in the middle of the full-size sedan segment. The Toyota Avalon, with its 3.5L V6, achieves an EPA-estimated 24 MPG combined, but it does not have AWD. That’s a difference, making it a better choice for those wanting to save fuel. The front-wheel-drive Chevrolet Impala with its 3.6L V6 manages 22 MPG combined. Some smaller SUVs, like the Honda CR-V (28 MPG combined), offer superior fuel economy while still providing passenger and cargo space, which makes them potential alternatives to the full-size sedan. The TAURUS MPG across all years shows the limited historical movement in terms of its efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintain consistent speeds and avoid aggressive acceleration. The Taurus is a heavy car, and abrupt changes in speed require energy. Anticipate traffic flow and try to maintain a steady pace to minimize the amount of fuel needed to accelerate and decelerate.

Ensure that your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes, and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side door.

Remove unnecessary weight from the vehicle. The heavier the car, the more fuel it takes to move it. Consider removing any items from the trunk or passenger compartment that are not essential. Even small amounts of weight can add up and impact fuel economy over time.

Minimize idling time. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. Turn off the engine if you anticipate waiting for more than a minute or two, such as at a long traffic light or while waiting to pick someone up. Restarting the engine consumes less gas than letting it idle for an extended period.