2007 Ford Five Hundred: What's New

Vehicle Overview
Ford introduced its new Five Hundred sedan as a 2005 model, and shortly thereafter Mercury launched the closely related Montego.

With its nearly full-size dimensions, the Five Hundred is considered Ford’s flagship. Ford called the four-door its first crossover-based car; it has a high seating position like that found in sport utility vehicles. Ford’s Freestyle wagon is related to the Five Hundred sedan. Side-impact airbags and Safety Canopy side curtain airbags will be standard on all models beginning later in the 2007 model year. A chrome package, featuring a chrome mesh grille and chrome-clad wheels, is also new.

Powertrain choices with the Duratec 3.0-liter V-6 include either a continuously variable transmission or a six-speed automatic. Optional safety technology includes rollover protection.

Only SEL and upscale Limited trim levels are offered for 2007 — the base SE trim has been discontinued. The Five Hundred can have front- or all-wheel drive, which can automatically distribute nearly all of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard on all front-wheel-drive models.

Available options in both trims include a family entertainment system, Sirius Satellite Radio and power-adjustable pedals.

Exterior
Ford promotes the “clean geometric lines and stately proportions” of the Five Hundred sedan. Clear headlights flank a trapezoidal grille that contains a diamond-mesh pattern. Fog lamps sit below the integrated front bumper.

Built on a 112.9-inch wheelbase, the Five Hundred is almost a foot shorter than the full-size Crown Victoria and features a fully independent suspension. All-wheel-drive models have rear self-leveling. Low-profile windshield wipers use a strip of spring steel to press the rubber blade evenly against the glass. A power moonroof is available. Standard wheels measure 17 inches in diameter, but Limited models get 18-inch tires on alloy wheels.

Interior
Five occupants enjoy tall, upright seating positions. The slightly elevated 60/40-split second-row seat folds down.

Dual-zone air conditioning, a flat-folding front passenger seat, an electronic message center and a leather-wrapped steering wheel are included in the SEL. Limited models get an Audiophile sound system and leather seating surfaces that are heated in the front.

Front windows offer express-up/down operation. A storage compartment with a pop-up cover sits at the top of the dashboard. The trunk holds 21.2 cubic feet of cargo — more than the full-size Crown Victoria.

Under the Hood
A Duratec 3.0-liter V-6 engine produces 203 horsepower and 207 pounds-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard on front-drive Five Hundreds, while a CVT is standard on all-wheel-drive models. The gearless CVT unit uses two variable-size pulleys, connected by a metal chain, to transfer engine power to the drive wheels.

Safety
All-disc antilock brakes are standard. Beginning later in the 2007 model year, side-impact airbags and Safety Canopy side curtain airbags will be standard in the SEL and Limited. Rear parking sensors and traction control are optional.

Driving Impressions
Acceleration in a CVT-equipped Five Hundred isn’t a strong point, but this sensible sedan performs adequately. Response is a bit sluggish at start-up, but speed rises steadily. Some engine noise is evident during hard acceleration.

Although largely similar to Ford’s Freestyle wagon, the Five Hundred is a little quieter. The sedan responds better to bumps and holes, which means there’s less commotion to affect ride comfort. The Five Hundred feels confident and secure. Body lean in curves isn’t bad, but it’s present.

Backseat riders get plenty of headroom, legroom and foot space on firm but amply cushioned seats. The firm front seats are comfortable.