EDMUNDS.COM 2005 MERCURY SABLE
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
No longer a top contender in the midsize car segment, the Sable is still a decent buy if a low initial price is more important to you than overall refinement and resale value.
Pros
Low price, above-average levels of safety and cabin space, available as a sedan or a wagon.
Cons
Low-grade interior materials; poor resale value; doesn''t ride, handle or stop as well as other cars in its class.
What''s New for 2005
The new model year brings few changes for the Sable. The model lineup has been simplified to GS and LS trims for sedans, and LS trim for the wagon. A CD player is now standard on the LS, along with wood trim and ABS. Oddly, power-adjustable pedals have been dropped altogether. Sable wagon production ends midyear, so if you can''t find one at the Mercury dealership, consider buying its twin, the Ford Taurus wagon.
Overview
Introduction:
Back in 1986, the Sable was radical. With smooth, aerodynamic contours, a snazzy light bar in place of a grille and what appeared to be a pillarless roof, it made a strong styling statement. Today''s car is a shadow of its former self, reflecting parent Ford Motor Company''s uncertainty about what Mercury means. Is it a luxurious Ford, a cut-rate Lincoln or something entirely different? We do find the Sable to be a decent value in the midsize sedan and wagon marketplace, especially for buyers on a tight budget who need a safe family car with lots of interior space. Downsides include poor expected resale value and spotty build quality compared to top import choices like the Honda Accord, Mazda 6, Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry. Moreover, these cars hold a considerable advantage when it comes to actual driving dynamics -- all have quieter engines, smoother shifting transmissions, stronger brakes and more confident handling. However, if you''re just looking for Point-A-to-B transportation, Mercury''s family car will serve your needs. Selecting the Mercury Sable over the Ford Taurus comes down to styling. Which set of headlights and taillights do you like best? Otherwise, the cars are nearly identical.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
The Sable is available as a sedan or station wagon. Sedans can be ordered in GS or LS trim levels; the wagon is only available as an LS. The GS comes with remote keyless entry; air conditioning; cassette stereo; power windows, mirrors and locks; cruise control; a trip computer; and a front bench seat (allowing the car to seat six). The LS adds a keyless entry keypad on the driver door, body-color rearview mirrors with approach lamps, alloy wheels, perimeter alarm system and a stereo with a CD player. Additional LS features include a power driver seat, wood trim accents and front bucket seats with a center console and floor shifter. An available LS Premium package includes a cassette deck in place of the standard CD player, automatic climate control, leather seating and automatic headlamps. A Platinum Edition Feature Vehicle package is also available, and includes unique alloy wheels, satin aluminum finish interior trim, two-tone leather seating and monochromatic exterior trim. A CD changer is optional.
Powertrains and Performance:
Engine choices include a 3.0-liter Vulcan V6 and a 3.0-liter Duratec V6. The main difference between the two is the cylinder heads; the base Vulcan has two valves per cylinder, while the Duratec has four. This greatly affects output and performance, as the base engine manages just 153 horsepower, while the heartier Duratec puts out 201 hp. Regardless of engine choice, the Sable comes standard with a four-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy estimates for both engines are 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.
Safety:
The Sable has earned a good reputation for safety, thanks to its solid performances in crash testing. Both the sedan and wagon earned a five-star rating for frontal crash testing and three stars for side impacts. The IIHS named the Sable a "Best Pick" after conducting its 40-mph frontal offset crash test. Side airbags for front occupants are optional on all models. ABS and traction control is standard on LS models, and optional on the GS. You can only get four-wheel disc brakes on wagons; sedans have rear drum brakes.
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
Sable cabins have a dated look, but most controls are easy to find and use. The broad, flat seats aren''t especially supportive but can accommodate occupants of all sizes. Carrying six passengers is a legitimate prospect if your Sable has the front bench seat. The front bench seat also includes a flip/fold center compartment with cupholders and storage cubbies. The sedan has a spacious 17-cubic-foot trunk. The wagon''s rear-facing third-row seat can be used to carry two additional children. When it''s not in use, you''ll have 38.8 cubic feet of luggage space.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
Both engines are noisier than most competing V6s, but the Duratec at least offers strong acceleration. Ride quality is generally comfortable, but can be harsh over bumps and ruts. Braking distances are longer than those of most peers, and neither the suspension nor the steering is suited for brisk driving around corners.
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For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
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