Parking was another matter. This is a large car and the turning radius was also big. With the available all-wheel drive it creates a 40-foot turning radius. That is about three feet more than what I like. The superior rearview mirrors make backing up more reassuring, but our model also had the optional sonar detectors that beep if the car comes close to an object.
Inside the materials look and feel fine as Ford has created a modern appearance. The climate and stereo controls are easy to find and use, but the station change switch takes time to master. I did notice that the feel of some of the switchgear was a bit flimsy, but this was an early model.
This is obviously a highway cruiser and we did manage about 22 mpg on regular making it possible to go nearly 400 miles before refueling the 19-gallon tank becomes necessary. The high seating position, pleasant and fairly quiet ride, and high-quality brakes make for a reassuring journey. Make no mistake about it though, this car's chassis surpasses its engine so if you are inclined to challenge a few corners it can abide you, but we would go for the optional larger tires and rims if you are so inclined.
Dad's view: The six cylinder engine produces its horsepower at a high 5700 rpm and this Duratec unit does not do the Five Hundred justice even with an efficient six speed automatic transmission. However, I can understand Ford's reluctance to go with a more performance-oriented engine at this time especially since the supercharged Mercury Marauder was a slow seller. The strength of this engine is cruising and so when traveling in the mountains with a heavy load or accelerating up an onramp you might be surprised by the engine noise, but on the open road it is unobtrusive. Zero to 60 mp times are in the ten-second range with braking distances equal to the best in its class thanks to 12.5-inch discs with double-piston calipers on the front wheels and 13.0-inch discs in the rear. As for its handling scores, they were among the quickest in the segment.
We had a fairly base model and so we can't comment about the continuously variable transmission (CVT) or all-wheel drive unit or whether or not it is worth the extra money for the heavily optioned Limited model. But from what I have experienced with the Five Hundred, this is a practical sedan that is pleasing if not inspiring to drive and might just be the most likely replacement for the aging Crown Vic and Taurus. If you are remotely shopping for a sedan of any size, the Five Hundred might surprise you as it is light on its feet and quite capable of carrying the family.
Young working woman's view: My first reaction was quite positive. Here is an angular, high sitting sedan that has a Scandinavian style interior. Walking around revealed good fit and finish. When I sat inside I found the controls easy to master. The stereo, on the other hand, was designed to be clever and so there was not the normal tuning dial or easy to find AM/FM button.
The rear seats fold flat in a 60/40-split and if you fold the front-passenger seat down there is enough room for an eight feet ladder. I don't think that is going to cut into F-150 sales, but it is shows you the versatility of the Five Hundred. Ford indicates that the trunk can hold about eight golf bags, too. That gives you some idea of the space this Five Hundred offers. There are also an array of small bins and storage areas, but I wouldn't count on using the glove compartment to carry more than, well, gloves.
Inside the materials look and feel fine as Ford has created a modern appearance. The climate and stereo controls are easy to find and use, but the station change switch takes time to master. I did notice that the feel of some of the switchgear was a bit flimsy, but this was an early model.
This is obviously a highway cruiser and we did manage about 22 mpg on regular making it possible to go nearly 400 miles before refueling the 19-gallon tank becomes necessary. The high seating position, pleasant and fairly quiet ride, and high-quality brakes make for a reassuring journey. Make no mistake about it though, this car's chassis surpasses its engine so if you are inclined to challenge a few corners it can abide you, but we would go for the optional larger tires and rims if you are so inclined.
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We had a fairly base model and so we can't comment about the continuously variable transmission (CVT) or all-wheel drive unit or whether or not it is worth the extra money for the heavily optioned Limited model. But from what I have experienced with the Five Hundred, this is a practical sedan that is pleasing if not inspiring to drive and might just be the most likely replacement for the aging Crown Vic and Taurus. If you are remotely shopping for a sedan of any size, the Five Hundred might surprise you as it is light on its feet and quite capable of carrying the family.
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The rear seats fold flat in a 60/40-split and if you fold the front-passenger seat down there is enough room for an eight feet ladder. I don't think that is going to cut into F-150 sales, but it is shows you the versatility of the Five Hundred. Ford indicates that the trunk can hold about eight golf bags, too. That gives you some idea of the space this Five Hundred offers. There are also an array of small bins and storage areas, but I wouldn't count on using the glove compartment to carry more than, well, gloves.