Chicago: It's All About the SHO: Ford's SHO Taurus with Eco-Boost

Following Ford's introduction of the 2010 Taurus at the Detroit Auto Show last month, eyes turned to Chicago in anticipation of the roll-out of the Taurus SHO - Super High Output. That happened this week during media days leading up to the 101st edition of the Chicago Auto Show at McCormick Place.

OnCars thought the base Taurus was ready for a spot among the best sedans on the world market and declared it "best in show" at Detroit. It's the details that make this $25k platform top drawer - optional paddle-shifting, adaptive cruise control, collision warning with brake support, intelligent access with push-button start, rain sensing wipers, splendid fit and finish.

What the SHO brings to the table for another $12k is the punch and handling to place this Taurus in amongst the best of the world's performance sedans. There's AWD standard along with the 6-speed, paddle-shifting, rev-matching automatic tranny, and Ford's new pride and joy - the twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter Eco-Boost™ V6.

The SHO's engine has the most advanced state of tune for the Eco-Boost™ powerplant - a whopping 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque – about 15 horses more than in the Flex and Lincoln MKS.

In the handling department, a retuned suspension and brake package with standard 19in wheels - 20s optional - and high performance tires allows the driver liberal use of the available power. And that's just for the "standard" SHO.

There's the optional SHO Performance Package with aggressive tweaks in the electric steering rack calibration and stability control system, upgraded brake pads, 20-inch Goodyear Eagle F1 shoes and a lower, quicker 3.16 final drive ratio - a 2.77 rear end is standard.

But wait, there's more - in the pipeline, that is. For the weekend competitor, a track pack is in the offing.

Even the esthetics are special on this badge resurrection by Ford. Remember the rich Deep Emerald Green that was exclusive on the vintage 1991 SHO? Atlantis Green Metallic is the worthy 2010 equivalent. And there's suede upholstery and interior accents.

If you missed out on owning an original SHO with its 3-liter V6 with Yamaha cylinder heads and DOHC valve train, place your order now for its latest offspring.