2005 Ford Five Hundred: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

For 2005, Ford debuts a new 4-dr sedan with available all-wheel drive. The Five Hundred accommodates five passengers on seats Ford says are mounted about 4 inches higher than in other sedans. SE, SEL, and Limited models are offered, all with a 203-hp 3.0-liter V6 and a choice of front-wheel drive or AWD. Front-drive SEs and all AWD Five Hundreds use a continuously variable automatic transmission. A CVT provides variable drive ratios vs. a conventional automatic's preset ratios. Front-drive SEL and Limited versions get a 6-speed automatic transmission. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and traction control are standard. No antiskid system is available. SE and SEL have 17-inch wheels, Limited has 18s. Front torso side airbags and head-protecting curtain side airbags are optional. Standard equipment includes a power driver seat and split folding rear seatbacks; SEL and Limiteds add a folding front-passenger seat. Options include a sunroof and rear obstacle detection. The Five Hundred shares its basic design and powertrains with the Mercury Montego sedan and with Ford's Freestyle crossover SUV.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large Cars comprise the biggest passenger sedans and wagons. Large, inside and out, they also include the only 6-passenger cars. Large Cars offer lots of metal for the money and are dominated by domestic brands.

Our Best Buys include the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Five Hundred and Mercury Montego.