Ford made full use of its global design and development resources to create the Taurus. Early in the design process, designers and engineers from around the world immersed themselves in China to gain a deeper understanding of the market and key cultural factors influencing design and vehicle preferences. In-depth research of target customers – accomplished, respected professionals – helped to fine-tune design and engineering targets to create an exceptional new vehicle.

In creating the new Taurus, Ford designers crafted an exterior conveying balance, harmony and a sense of confidence.

At the front of the vehicle, a shield-like, clipped trapezoidal five-bar grille is positioned prominently and flanked by slender, modern headlamps with signature daytime running lights and LED projector lamp technology. Chrome rings house supplemental LED driving lights.

In silhouette, a powerful hood profile and planted architecture give the Taurus a sense of solidity and harmony. Designers elevated the exterior with fine details on the sides, including upswept highlight trim on the doors. Polished 19-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels help to give a bold and premium stance.

At the rear of the vehicle, multi-piece LED tail lights incorporate a distinctive signature appearance. A bright chrome bar connecting the tail lights highlights the vehicle’s width for a sense of understated athleticism. Integrated chrome exhaust tips complete the rear and offer another discreet hint at performance.

The sense of balance and harmony continues inside with a clean, modern cabin that makes use of smart design and strong horizontal elements for an airy, spacious feel. Above the passengers, a full panoramic sunroof allows more natural light to enter the cabin and adds to a sense of elegance and openness.

The spacious feel is justified by an exceptionally roomy cabin, which takes full advantage of the vehicle’s five-meter length and 2.95-meter wheelbase for abundant second-row legroom, and generous shoulder and hip room. Designers and engineers went to great lengths to package features in a way that prioritized interior space. The front panel of the panoramic sunroof, for example, slides back over the rear panel rather than under it, ensuring maximum rear headroom.

Making full use of the car’s interior space, designers and engineers placed more than 25 intelligent stowage spaces throughout the cabin. Cup holders designed to securely hold different-sized tea bottles are just one thoughtful detail implemented to meet the needs of consumers. Reflecting the importance of second-row passengers in China – where the owner of a premium vehicle is often a passenger rather than a driver – the second row has been designed with an emphasis on comfort.

In a first for a Ford vehicle in China, the Taurus has power-reclining rear seats with optional adjustable lumbar support and a massage function, helping both rear passengers arrive refreshed at their destination in business-class comfort. Folding down the center seat cushion – friction-hinged for a premium feel – reveals a rear-seat control panel for air conditioning, seat functions and car media. Folding it up allows the vehicle to comfortably accommodate three rear passengers with a 40/20/40 rear-seat layout.

Materials used throughout the cabin reinforce the feeling of comfort and exceptional, uncompromised quality. Ford designers appointed surfaces with soft but durable materials – such as supple leather for the seats – that recall a pair of tailored gloves or a fine wool suit.

These materials are accented by bright chrome finishes for an extra layer of detail and a sense of prestige. The careful application of wood elements adds natural warmth and strength, and underscores the fine craftsmanship of the interior. Extensive use of sound-deadening materials, advanced technologies and precise engineering ensure that whether in the front or rear seats, all occupants are treated to an exceptionally quiet cabin matched by a smooth and comfortable ride.

Powered by Ford’s new high-output, twin-turbo 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, the Taurus has the effortless power to match its elegant appearance. Drawing from the best of the Ford EcoBoost engine family, this new world-class engine delivers power in a stronger, smarter package. Lightweight materials and advanced controls help the engine to set a new standard for power density and efficiency.

The Ford Taurus will be manufactured at the recently opened Changan Ford Hangzhou Plant. Representing a US$760 million investment, the plant is the sixth assembly plant producing Ford vehicles in China. The highly efficient facility uses Ford’s latest manufacturing technologies and is capable of producing up to 250,000 vehicles a year on a flexible production line.