2000 Mercury Sable: Road Test
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2000 Mercury Sable ▼
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- MSRP: $19,035 -$22,535
- Invoice: $17,346 -$20,461
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Our road test for the 2000 Mercury Sable includes a full evaluation of the 2000 Mercury Sable from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2000 Mercury Sable, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2000 Mercury Sable help you decide if a 2000 Mercury Sable is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| GS wgn, ohv V6 | LS Premium sdn | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 4.7 |
Either V6 delivers smooth power that's adequate for most tasks, but Sable doesn't seem as sprightly as rivals like Chevrolet Impala and Oldsmobile Intrigue. Acceleration is good from a standing start--we clocked 8.2 seconds to 60 mph with a test twincam LS--but passing at 25-50 mph is sluggish because the automatic transmission hesitates before downshifting.
FUEL ECONOMY
| GS wgn, ohv V6 | LS Premium sdn | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.4 |
Both engines use regular gas, and two twincam sedans we've tested averaged about 18.4 mpg, par for the class. We haven't yet measured fuel economy with the base engine, but expect about 20 mpg.
RIDE QUALITY
| GS wgn, ohv V6 | LS Premium sdn | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 |
Sable doesn't float over bumps like some midsize cars, but the good body control is offset by a stiff ride; potholes and broken pavement register sharply.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| GS wgn, ohv V6 | LS Premium sdn | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 5 |
All Sable models share the same tires and suspension, which provide surefooted handling even in hard cornering. The steering has good on-center feel, but it's no longer variable assist, so turn-in isn't as linear as it might be. The brakes have good stopping power and easy modulation, but we think 4-wheel disc brakes should be offered on sedans, not just wagons.
QUIETNESS
| GS wgn, ohv V6 | LS Premium sdn | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 |
More insulation for 2000 quiets engine and road noise, but wind noise remains noticeable at highway speeds, and flooring the throttle in one of our twincam sedans produced an odd high-frequency vibration through the driver's seat and indeed the whole car.
CONTROLS
| GS wgn, ohv V6 | LS Premium sdn | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 |
Though instruments are unobstructed, their analog markings are too small, and bucket-seat Sables with automatic transmission lack a gear-position readout in the instrument cluster, a minor annoyance. Audio and climate controls are easy to use, but air conditioning and recirculation are not available for all air distribution settings, a more serious annoyance.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| GS wgn, ohv V6 | LS Premium sdn | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.2 |
Front outboard seats are roomy, but the bench's center position suits only toddlers, who should sit in back anyway. The center portion flip-folds into a console armrest that doesn't block the lower instrument panel like the previous design. An available driver-seat lumbar adjustment enhances comfort, but its control knob is awkwardly located on the front of the seat base. Drivers can further tailor positioning via a standard tilt steering wheel and optional movable pedals.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| GS wgn, ohv V6 | LS Premium sdn | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.1 |
Sable is comfortable in back, with decent 6-footer head and leg room and a substantial, supportive seat. A rear center armrest is offered only with the leather upholstery.
CARGO ROOM
| GS wgn, ohv V6 | LS Premium sdn | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 6 | 4.5 |
Both body styles have plenty of luggage room. The sedan's trunk is one of the largest in the midsize class, but it's quite shallow and has a smallish opening; a protruding back bumper further complicates loading.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| GS wgn, ohv V6 | LS Premium sdn | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 5.3 |
Sable is a comfortable, contemporary midsize that handles well and offers plenty of safety features. Acceleration and ride comfort are unimpressive, but this car is priced competitively and worth considering.
Total Score
| GS wgn, ohv V6 | LS Premium sdn | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 57 | 56 | 50.2 |
Total Score: 57
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