2006 Ford Five Hundred: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Navigation and DVD entertainment systems are new options for the 2006 Five Hundred. This sedan shares its design with the Mercury Montego and Ford's Freestyle SUV. All use a platform originated by Ford-subsidiary Volvo. Five Hundred comes with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive and offers SE, SEL, and Limited models. The only engine is a 203-hp 3.0-liter V6. The front-drive SEL and Limited have a 6-speed automatic transmission. Other models get a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) with near-infinite drive ratios. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes are standard. Traction control is included with AWD, optional otherwise; no antiskid system is offered. Option packages team front side airbags and curtain side airbags with rollover deployment. All models include power driver seat and split folding rear seatbacks. Leather upholstery is standard on Limited, optional for SEL. DVD entertainment is newly available for both, while a navigation system arrives as a Limited-exclusive option. Sunroof and rear obstacle detection are also available.

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 Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, Dodge Magnum, Ford Five Hundred, Mercury Montego, and Toyota Avalon. At this time we have no Recommended picks.