2013 Ford Taurus EcoBoost gets EPA rating of 32mpg

Ford's most popular sedan is getting a 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine in its 2013 iteration and now the Environmental Protection Agency has given the car a class-leading 32 miles per gallon rating on the highway.

Interestingly, this also puts the 2013 Taurus EcoBoost at a higher average fuel economy than the Mercedes-Benz E350 Bluetec diesel, the Porsche Panamera S Hybrid, and both V6 versions of the Honda Accord and the Toyota Camry. Ford is working hard to become the efficiency leader amongst its counterparts, especially rivals General Motors and Chrysler. This new achievement with their flagship sedan is a strong indication that they're serious about being on top.

Two other engine options for the 2013 Taurus still get at least 25mpg from the EPA, so those who don't go with the EcoBoost option will still have high efficiency for the full-sized sedan segment.

The base 3.5-liter V6 engine for the Taurus has been upgraded for 2013 to include twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT), which adds 25 horsepower while also adding 1mpg to city and 2mpg to highway fuel efficiency numbers over the 2012 model. The SHO version of the Taurus will keep the same 3.5L V6 365hp engine, but will have 25mpg on the highway.

Added technologies to all three engine options include a low-tension front-end accessory drive belt to reduce engine drag, aggressive deceleration fuel shut-off, a variable-displacement air conditioning compressor to reduce belt drag, and electric power-assisted steering to remove the weight of a power steering pump from the accessory belt.

Ford's new Active Grille Shutter System is also featured on all models of the Taurus, increasing aerodynamics by controlling the grille opening during operation.

The Taurus is built at Ford's Chicago Assembly facility and will begin shipping to dealerships later this summer.