2017 Ford Taurus Limited Provides Premium Comfort in the Full Size Sedan Market

The 2017 Ford Taurus Limited stands as a testament to the traditional American full-size sedan, offering a combination of substantial road presence, a whisper-quiet cabin, and a level of feature-rich luxury that often rivals dedicated premium brands. Positioned just below the high-performance SHO model, the Limited trim was designed for drivers who prioritize long-distance cruising comfort and sophisticated interior appointments over aggressive corner-carving capabilities. As the automotive landscape shifted toward crossovers and SUVs, this particular iteration of the Taurus represented one of the final chapters of Ford’s commitment to the classic large four-door platform.

Engineering and Powertrain Performance

At the heart of the 2017 Taurus Limited is the tried-and-true 3.5-liter Duratec V6 engine. This naturally aspirated power plant delivers a respectable 288 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 254 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. During real-world driving scenarios, this engine exhibits a linear power delivery that feels adequate for a vehicle weighing nearly two tons. While it does not possess the explosive urgency of the twin-turbocharged EcoBoost found in the SHO, the standard V6 provides a smooth, predictable acceleration profile that is ideal for merging onto highways or maintaining high-speed cruises.

The engine is paired with a six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. In our testing of this powertrain configuration, the transmission proved to be tuned heavily toward fuel efficiency and smoothness rather than rapid-fire shifts. When cruising at 70 mph, the engine remains at a low hum, contributing to the vehicle's serene cabin environment. However, when demanding a quick downshift for overtaking, there can be a noticeable hesitation as the electronic control unit prioritizes smooth engagement over speed. For those seeking more engagement, the SelectShift functionality allows for manual gear selection, though the response time remains conservative.

Front-Wheel Drive versus All-Wheel Drive Dynamics

The 2017 Limited trim was available in both Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) configurations. The choice between these two significantly alters the vehicle's character and utility:

• FWD Dynamics: The standard front-wheel-drive setup offers the best fuel economy, achieving an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. On dry pavement, the steering feels lighter, and the car exhibits typical understeer characteristics when pushed into tight corners.
• AWD Capability: For those in northern climates, the intelligent AWD system is a valuable addition. It seamlessly redistributes torque to the wheels with the most grip. During our evaluation on wet and slippery surfaces, the AWD system provided a much-needed sense of stability, preventing the front wheels from slipping during heavy acceleration from a standstill. The trade-off is a slight penalty in fuel efficiency, dropping to 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway, and an increase in curb weight which makes the car feel slightly more planted but less agile.

Interior Craftsmanship and Luxury Amenities

Stepping into the 2017 Ford Taurus Limited is where the "Limited" nomenclature truly earns its keep. The interior is a significant step up from the SE and SEL trims, characterized by soft-touch materials and an array of comfort features that were once reserved for the Lincoln division.

Seating Comfort and Material Quality

The seats in the Limited trim are upholstered in perforated leather and offer 10-way power adjustability for both the driver and front passenger. One of the most appreciated features during long summer drives is the integrated ventilation system, which works alongside the heating elements to maintain a comfortable temperature regardless of the season. The driver’s seat also includes a memory function that links to the exterior mirrors and power-adjustable pedals, ensuring that multiple drivers can find their ideal ergonomic setup with a single button press.

In the rear, the Taurus Limited continues the luxury theme with heated outboard seats. While the exterior dimensions of the car are massive, the interior packaging is a bit of a paradox. Due to the thick door panels and wide center console, the cabin feels more "cozy" than "cavernous." However, shoulder and hip room are excellent, allowing three adults to sit across the back bench with more ease than in most mid-size sedans.

The Sony Audio Experience and Infotainment

Standard on the Limited is the 12-speaker Sony premium audio system, which includes a subwoofer and surround sound processing. The acoustic engineers at Ford clearly took advantage of the Taurus's quiet cabin; the soundstage is well-defined, with crisp highs and a punchy low-end that remains distortion-free even at higher volumes.

Controlling the environment is the SYNC 3 infotainment system. By 2017, Ford had largely moved away from the controversial MyFord Touch system in favor of this faster, more intuitive interface. The 8-inch capacitive touchscreen responds quickly to pinch-and-swipe gestures. Importantly for modern users, this was the era where Ford began integrating better smartphone compatibility. While early 2017 models might require a software update or a specific hub hardware change for full Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, the SYNC 3 platform remains one of the most user-friendly systems of its time, featuring large icons and a straightforward menu structure.

Practicality and the Massive Trunk Space

One of the defining characteristics of the 2017 Taurus Limited is its sheer utility as a hauler. The vehicle features a trunk that provides 20.1 cubic feet of storage space. To put this in perspective, that is significantly more volume than many full-size competitors like the Toyota Avalon or the Chevrolet Impala of the same year.

The trunk's depth is so substantial that reaching items near the back seat can actually be a challenge for some users. This makes it an ideal vehicle for family road trips, easily swallowing four large suitcases and several smaller bags without obstructing the rear-view mirror. For even longer items, the 60/40 split-folding rear seats allow for the transport of skis or lumber, though the pass-through opening is somewhat narrowed by structural bracing designed to improve the car's rigidity.

Safety Technology and Driver Assistance

Ford equipped the 2017 Limited with a suite of driver-assist technologies that remain relevant today. The Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert is standard, which is vital for a car of this size. The high beltline and thick C-pillars create significant blind spots, and the BLIS system acts as a necessary second set of eyes when changing lanes.

Other available safety features found on many Limited models include:

• Adaptive Cruise Control: Uses radar to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead.
• Forward Collision Warning: Alerts the driver if a frontal impact is imminent and pre-charges the brakes for maximum stopping power.
• Lane-Keeping System: Provides haptic feedback through the steering wheel if the car begins to drift out of its lane and can apply steering torque to help guide the vehicle back to the center.
• Active Park Assist: A rare feature in this segment that can help steer the car into parallel parking spots, a welcome assist given the Taurus's 203-inch total length.

In crash testing, the 2017 Taurus earned a 5-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It received top marks in frontal and side-impact protection, though like many large sedans, it received a 4-star rating in the rollover resistance test due to its center of gravity.

Driving Impressions: A Cloud-Like Commute

Driving the 2017 Taurus Limited is an exercise in isolation. The suspension is tuned for maximum compliance, featuring a MacPherson strut front setup and a multi-link rear suspension. It excels at smoothing out expansion joints and pothole-ridden city streets. On the highway, the car feels exceptionally stable, with the heavy curb weight working in its favor to provide a "planted" feel that isn't easily disturbed by crosswinds.

The steering is electrically assisted and, as noted in several expert reviews, provides surprisingly decent feedback for a car focused on comfort. It isn't a sports car, but you always have a clear sense of where the front wheels are pointed. The main drawback to the driving experience is the aforementioned visibility. The small windows and high dashboard can make maneuvering in tight parking garages feel a bit like piloting a submarine. Fortunately, the standard rearview camera and rear parking sensors are highly effective.

Buying a Used 2017 Taurus Limited: What to Look For

As the Taurus has been discontinued in North America, the 2017 Limited represents a high-value proposition on the used market. Because it was often purchased by older drivers or used as a premium fleet vehicle, many examples have been well-maintained. However, there are specific areas potential buyers should investigate.

Known Issues and Recalls

1. Water Pump Maintenance: The 3.5L V6 engine uses an internal water pump driven by the timing chain. While generally reliable, if the pump fails, it can leak coolant into the engine oil, potentially causing catastrophic engine damage. Buyers should look for vehicles with a documented history of cooling system flushes or, if the mileage is high (over 120,000 miles), check if the water pump has already been replaced.
2. Steering Gear Heat Shield Recall: Some 2017 models were recalled due to steering gear heat shield fasteners that could corrode. This could allow the shield to detach. Prospective buyers should run the VIN through the NHTSA database to ensure this and other minor recalls (like the ignition key removal issue) have been addressed by a Ford dealership.
3. Transmission Fluid: While Ford claims "lifetime" fluid for some components, experienced mechanics suggest changing the 6F50 transmission fluid every 60,000 miles to ensure the longevity of the SelectShift system.

Market Value and Depreciation

The Taurus suffered from relatively steep depreciation compared to rivals like the Toyota Avalon. While this was a disadvantage for the original owners, it is a massive benefit for second-hand buyers. You can often find a 2017 Limited with under 70,000 miles for the price of a much newer but significantly more basic subcompact car. In terms of "luxury per dollar," the Limited is difficult to beat.

Conclusion

The 2017 Ford Taurus Limited is a polished, quiet, and immensely practical sedan that serves as a reminder of why the full-size segment was once the backbone of the American auto industry. While its interior packaging isn't as efficient as modern crossovers, and its fuel economy is reflective of its V6 roots, the sheer level of comfort and the massive cargo capacity make it an excellent choice for those who spend significant time on the road. It offers a premium experience without the premium price tag, provided the buyer is aware of the specific maintenance needs of the Duratec V6.

Summary Table of 2017 Taurus Limited Specs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does the 2017 Ford Taurus Limited have Apple CarPlay?

Most 2017 Ford Taurus Limited models equipped with SYNC 3 support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, early production units may require a software update to version 2.0 or higher. Some users have reported needing to upgrade the USB hub in the center console to a CarPlay-compatible version, which is a relatively simple plug-and-play fix.

Is the 2017 Taurus Limited good in the snow?

When equipped with the optional All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system and a good set of all-season or winter tires, the Taurus Limited is exceptionally capable in the snow. Its heavy weight provides good traction, and the intelligent AWD system reacts quickly to slipping wheels.

What is the difference between the Taurus SEL and the Limited?

The Limited trim adds several luxury features that are optional or unavailable on the SEL. These include 19-inch wheels (vs 18-inch), perforated leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, the 12-speaker Sony audio system, and the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) as standard equipment.

How many miles can a 2017 Ford Taurus Limited last?

With proper maintenance, specifically focusing on the cooling system and transmission fluid changes, a 2017 Taurus Limited can easily exceed 200,000 miles. The 3.5L V6 is a robust engine used extensively in police interceptors and taxi fleets, proving its durability under harsh conditions.

Does it require premium gas?

No, the 3.5L Duratec V6 engine in the 2017 Taurus Limited is designed to run on regular 87-octane unleaded gasoline. Using premium fuel will not significantly increase performance or fuel economy for this specific naturally aspirated engine.