19 MPG combined won’t win any awards for lower fuel costs, but for the 2017 Ford Taurus AWD FFV with its 3.5L V6, it represents a practical compromise for buyers who value space, comfort, and all-weather security over fuel efficiency. This isn’t a car purchased by people obsessed with saving gas; it’s a full-size sedan often chosen by families needing room for growing kids, or by sales representatives logging serious highway miles in less-than-ideal conditions. They want a smooth ride, a spacious cabin, and all-wheel drive, and are willing to accept the fuel economy penalty that comes with it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Taurus AWD at 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the reality of hauling around a substantial vehicle in stop-and-go traffic. The 3.5L V6 needs to work harder to get the Taurus moving from a standstill, impacting fuel consumption. On the open road, however, the Taurus settles into a more efficient cruise. The six-speed automatic transmission helps, selecting higher gears to keep engine RPMs lower and conserve fuel. But the all-wheel-drive system constantly distributing power adds weight and frictional losses compared to a front-wheel-drive configuration.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Ford Taurus AWD FFV is $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Of course, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (city versus highway), and the price of gasoline in your area. If you live in an area with high gas prices or drive significantly more than 15,000 miles per year, you can expect to pay considerably more. Those who drive less or live where fuel is cheaper will see lower costs. The annual fuel cost is a useful benchmark. Personalize it to your specific situation when budgeting for vehicle ownership.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy can often deviate. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and carrying heavy loads can all negatively impact MPG. On the other hand, driving cautiously on the highway, maintaining proper tire inflation, and keeping up with routine maintenance can help you get closer to the EPA estimates. Owners of the 2017 Taurus AWD often report figures slightly below the EPA combined rating, particularly in areas with heavy traffic or hilly terrain. Careful drivers can often match the highway figure, or even exceed it slightly, on long road trips.

How it compares

Compared to other full-size sedans with all-wheel drive, the 2017 Taurus’s fuel economy sits in a middling position. For example, the similar-era Chrysler 300 AWD with the 3.6L V6 offers a comparable 18 MPG city and 27 MPG highway. The Toyota Avalon, typically only available in front-wheel-drive, achieves substantially better figures, such as 21/30 MPG (city/highway) for the 2017 model. The now-discontinued Chevrolet Impala, another competitor, struggled to match the Avalon’s numbers even in FWD form. These contrasts highlight the trade-offs in choosing a large sedan with the added traction and capability of all-wheel drive. Buyers of a TAURUS MPG across all years are likely aware of this compromise.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The 3.5L V6 in the Taurus responds well to a gentle foot, and smooth, consistent driving habits can significantly improve fuel economy. Anticipate traffic flow and avoid unnecessary stops and starts. Every time you accelerate from a stop, you’re burning extra fuel.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and reduces fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes, and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel without moving the car, and it’s wasteful in a large-displacement engine like the 3.5L V6. Modern vehicles are designed to be restarted quickly and efficiently, so there’s no need to let them idle.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy on long trips. By avoiding fluctuations in speed, you’ll reduce the need for sudden acceleration and braking, both of which consume extra fuel. Avoid using cruise control in hilly terrain, as it can sometimes lead to the transmission downshifting excessively.

Keep up with regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. A properly tuned engine will burn fuel more efficiently and reduce emissions. You can browse all Ford fuel economy data to see how maintenance affects long-term efficiency.