The Taurus ovoid design was almost universally panned as being too much for the general public to digest. But benefits in aerodynamics and reducing wind noise have proven effective. Subtle, but significant changes differentiate SHO and plebeian Tauruses. Up front, a larger grille opening, along with a second port below the bumper line allow more fresh air to reach the engine bay for better cooling. Also, the lower rocker panels are flared, which gives it a lower, wider, performance-oriented identity.
All models share the same swoopy interior, with organic shapes and highly sculpted forms.
And where the front bucket seats of the old SHO enjoyed lots of side bolstering, the new model's chairs are seemingly made to fit a broader array of physiques. There is plenty of leg and headroom to adequately fit four adults, though five can be accommodated in a pinch. Because of Taurus's new shape, which radically rounds the roof line, some headroom fore and aft inside the cabin has been sacrificed. The Japanese company is in on the new 3.4 liter V8 as well. It receives the bare castings from Ford's Windsor, Ontario plant, machines and assembles the powerplant, then ships them to Ford in Atlanta for installation.