SHOtime! Taurus moniker returns with 365 hp

After a 10-year absence, the Super High Output nameplate is back - this time, on a much larger car with far more power. Taurus fans - who knew? - have hung a "mission accomplished" banner on the website bringbackthesho.com as the car was unveiled this morning in Chicago. Clearly, there's more than a few people willing to fork over $38,000 for this fully-loaded four-door.

Ford's 3.5 liter, twin-turbocharged V-6 makes a healthy 365 horsepower, 130 more than the last SHO's Yamaha V-8. Besides dual exhaust tips, a subtle rear decklid spoiler and wheels up to 20 inches, there's not much to differentiate the SHO from the standard Taurus, but according to Ford, that's the point of its "authentic sleeper sedan formula."

Unlike the first 1989 SHO, there won't be a manual transmission, but the six-speed paddle-shifter automatic will blip the throttle on downshifts.

Test Drive: 2010 Ford Fusion is best gas-electric hybrid yet

OK, let's just get it out there: The 2010 Ford Fusion hybrid is the best gasoline-electric hybrid yet.

What makes it best is a top-drawer blend of an already very good midsize sedan with the industry's smoothest, best-integrated gas-electric power system. It's so well-done that you have to look to the $107,000 Lexus LS 600h hybrid to come close.

Fusion's $28,000 starting price is more or less in reach, the driving feel is good, and the interior has a premium look and feel.

There are three facets to consider in evaluating a gasoline-electric hybrid: the underlying vehicle itself, the hybrid system and the mileage.

WANT TAX CREDIT? BUY IT NOW

Ford says the 2010 Fusion hybrid qualifies for a $3,400 tax credit but only if you buy one by March 31, the end of the first quarter.

Few will be at dealers by then, but buyers can order one now and qualify for the credit, even if the car is delivered after the deadline.

The federal credit to encourage hybrids phases out as an automaker sells more of them. Ford has sold enough hybrids that the buyer's credit on a hybrid Fusion or Milan sedan halves to $1,700 on April 1. The credit also drops on that date for the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner hybrid SUVs.

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