Ford Five Hundred

2006 Ford Five Hundred Flagship sedan offers roomy comfort. By Larry Edsall

Introduction

Introduced as an all-new nameplate for 2005, the Ford Five Hundred is the company's interpretation of the modern American sedan. Big and roomy inside, the Five Hundred features a tall roof that offers lots of headroom. The driver sits relatively high, gaining a commanding view of the road. The back seats are comfortable and quite roomy. And they fold down to increase cargo capacity.

Volvo assisted with engineering a body structure that benefits from the latest in safety technology. Ford acquired the Swedish automaker famous for its passenger-protecting innovations in 1999 and, when it came time to develop the Five Hundred, employed Volvo's best structural and safety engineers to work on the project.

The Ford Five Hundred is available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, the latter giving it more stable handling and better traction, particularly in inclement weather.

The V6 engine that comes on all models delivers responsive performance and good fuel economy. On front-wheel-drive models, the V6 is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, which offers more responsive performance and better efficiency than a traditional four-speed automatic. All-wheel-drive models come with a continuously variable transmission, a design noted for its responsiveness and efficiency.

Model Lineup

The 2006 Ford Five Hundred is available in three trim levels: SE, SEL, and Limited. Each is available with all-wheel drive. All are powered by a 3.0-liter V6 called the Duratec 30 rated at 203 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel-drive models come equipped with a six-speed automatic. All-wheel-drive, or AWD, models use a continuously variable transmission, or CVT.

SE ($22,230) and SE AWD ($24,080) come equipped with air conditioning, a six-way power driver's seat, a tilt steering column, power locks, mirrors and windows, remote key fob unlocking as well as keyless entry (entry via a driver's door-mounted keypad, a popular Ford feature), overhead and front consoles, CD player, and 17-inch wheels.

SEL ($24,230) and SEL AWD ($26,080) add dual-zone automatic climate control with rear-seat air outlets, eight-way power for the driver's seat and two-way power for the front-passenger's seat, a six-CD changer and MP3 capability, leather-wrapped steering wheel with built-in audio control, wood grain interior trim, an electronic message center with a compass, self-dimming interior mirror, outside temperature display fog lamps, chrome body accents and automatic headlamps.

Limited ($26,380) and Limited AWD ($28,230) get leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, 18-inch wheels, a bright-texture grille, chrome mirror caps, memory seats and mirrors, Audiophile audio with subwoofer, four-way power front passenger's seat, cream-colored instruments and an analog clock in the center of the dashboard.

Options include traction control, leather trim seating for SE and SEL models, power-adjustable pedals for the Limited model, a power moonroof, and a rear obstacle warning system for SEL and Limited. A family entertainment system, consisting of a headliner-mounted DVD player, flip-down flat screen television monitor and two wireless headphones is available on the SEL and Limited.

Safety features include an optional package for the SE with side-impact airbags (for torso protection) and canopy airbags (for head protection), an anti-theft perimeter alarm and lights ($795); a similar safety package for the SEL and Limited includes the side-impact and canopy airbags ($595). Anti-lock brakes (ABS) are standard on all models.

Walkaround

The Ford 500 name goes way back. Ford first used it in numerical form for the 1957 Fairlane 500, the highest trim version of the car that helped Ford overtake Chevrolet in the sales race. When Ford launched a new flagship, the Galaxie, in 1959, it again used the 500 badge to indicate the most upscale version. When Ford brought back the Five Hundred (spelled out) as an all-new product for 2005, it was as a separate model and as the new flagship of its fleet of cars.

The Five Hundred is much bigger than the old Taurus. The Five Hundred is 3 inches longer, 1.5 inches wider, and 4 inches taller than the Taurus. It also rides on a wheelbase that is 4.5 inches longer, which not only gives the car its solid, luxury-car stance but enhances smooth ride quality.

The Five Hundred's basic structure benefits from Volvo's extensive safety research. The chief designer said it was a challenge to sculpt a Ford-styled body around a Volvo chassis, and added that designers used what he calls plainer surfaces with taut lines to give the car a modern look without losing its passenger-car proportions. The Five Hundred's rounded forms offer a more conservative alternative to the more upright, angular Chrysler 300.

The Five Hundred's face has large, jewel-styled and multi-bulb triangular headlight elements on either side of a wide, trapezoidal grille. Chrome accents the front bumper, rear bumper, doors and window frames. Large rear side windows give the Five Hundred more of a luxury car profile.

The tall trunk lid has a spoiler-like lip along its top trailing edge. The rear of the car features large, multi-element and triangular shaped tail lamps and dual, down turned exhaust tips.

The SE and SEL ride on seven-spoke aluminum wheels and Continental tires while the Limited gets distinctive eight-spoke 18-inch wheels and Pirelli tires.

Interior Features

The Ford Five Hundred boasts a roomy cabin. In fact, it's roomier than the big Crown Victoria (108.3 cubic feet of passenger space vs. 106.4 for the Crown Vic), which is impressive given the Five Hundred is a foot shorter in overall length.

Rear-seat room is particularly impressive: In fact, there's more rear legroom (41.9 inches) than front legroom (41.2 inches). That rear-seat legroom is enhanced because the front seats are mounted above the rear floor, leaving room for your feet underneath.

We spent time in the driver's and front passenger's seats as well as the back seats and found all of them comfortable and supportive even after several hours in the car. All seats feature what Ford calls a command view of the road, with seat-bottom cushions that are some four inches higher than those of a typical mid-sized sedan. The front seats are mounted on a Volvo-devised cross-body beam that runs from the bottom of the B-pillar (the post between the front and rear doors) that adds strength to the car's shell and helps provide protection in the event of a side impact.

Each of the four doors has a beverage holder, and additional cup holders are located in the center console between the front seats with two more in the center console that folds down from the back of the back middle seat. The dashboard has a covered storage compartment in its top center section. The dashboard comes in silver or wood-grain trim with metal used for the door releases and around the base and top of the gear shift lever.

We found the switchgear well designed and easy to use. Audio controls are mounted at the top of the center stack with climate controls beneath.

The steeply raked windshield can reflect glare off the top of the dashboard, however, something we noticed with the tan-colored Pebble interior. (Shale and Black interiors are also available.) Also, a driver wearing sunglasses can have trouble reading the darkly colored gauges in the SE and SEL models. The Limited light-faced gauges are easier to read.

The Five Hundred has a big trunk (21.2 cubic feet) that can hold eight sets of golf clubs. The rear seatbacks fold forward to provide enlarged luggage space, and the front passenger's seat (on SEL and Limited versions) folds down to provide space for a 10-foot long ladder or other object to fit inside the Five Hundred with the trunk lid closed, a neat trick for a sedan.

Driving Impressions

The Ford Five Hundred accelerates with authority. Its 3.0-liter V6 engine delivers more than sufficient power for this big sedan, even when four adults are aboard. You can squeal the tires and race away from a stoplight. Or you can push down your right foot and the six-speed transmission on front-drive models quickly downshifts as the engine responds with the power you need for passing, or for accelerating onto a freeway.

The Five Hundred is very quiet when cruising along, and we never had to raise our voices to carry on a conversation with those sitting beside, behind or in front of us.

The Five Hundred's long wheelbase, independent front and rear suspension and stiff chassis work well together. Steering is nicely weighted and provides good feedback.

The disc brakes are impressively effective. The Five Hundred comes standard with anti-lock brakes (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), which optimizes front/rear brake bias to shorten stopping distances. Also helping to reduce stopping distances is the size of the brakes: 12.5-inch discs with double-piston calipers on the front wheels and 13.0-inch discs in the rear.

While many automakers still use four-speed automatic transmissions, front-wheel-drive versions of the Five Hundred benefit from a six-speed automatic, which provides smoother performance and better fuel efficiency. The Five Hundred, equipped with front-wheel drive and six-speed automatic, is rated 21/29 miles per gallon City/Highway by the EPA.

While we spent most our time in the front-wheel-drive version, we did take time to try an all-wheel-drive Five Hundred on a dirt hill in a rock quarry. While another all-wheel-drive vehicle spun its wheels and struggled mightily to climb the slippery hill, the all-wheel-drive Five Hundred sedan went right up and over. You may not need to tear through rock quarries, you may need to drive through snow, and the Five Hundred should handle winter travel well. All-wheel drive also helps in the rain, where it stabilizes the handling of the car.

AWD models come with a continuously variable transmission, or CVT, that provides seamless operation and 19/26 mpg. Ford used the efficient CVT to help overcome the usual mileage penalty paid by heavier, more complex all-wheel-drive systems.

Summary

The Ford Five Hundred delivers full-size interior space in a mid-size car. Back seat passengers won't be cramped and there's plenty of room for luggage. Its V6 engine delivers sufficient power and its transmissions help the engine perform well while achieving fuel-efficiency.

New Car Test Drive correspondent Larry Edsall is based in Arizona.

Ford Fusion

2006 Ford Fusion All-new midsize sedan seems rock-solid. By John Rettie

Introduction

It's tough to imagine that a decade ago Ford sold the best selling car in the U.S. Back in the 1990s, sales of the Ford Taurus eclipsed those of the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord.

Then the market shifted to trucks and SUVs and it seemed like Ford abandoned the car market. Sales of the Ford Explorer skyrocketed. The Taurus slumped and was relegated to the rental car fleets. People who wanted a mid-size sedan bought Japanese cars.

Ford is now determined to regain its footing in the car market. The Ford Fusion just may be the right answer and just in the nick of time. In any case, Ford appears to have done its homework.

Based on the highly praised Mazda6 sedan, the Fusion is a rock solid entry at a decent price. It handles well, looks purposeful and delivers good value for the money.

Model Lineup

The 2006 Ford Fusion was launched with front-wheel drive, but an all-wheel-drive version will be available later in calendar year 2006. The mid-size, four-door sedan comes with the choice of two engines, three transmissions, and three trim levels.

All trim levels come standard with a 2.3-liter 160-horsepower four-cylinder Duratec engine coupled to a five-speed manual transmission. A four-speed automatic transmission is optional ($1,095).

The Fusion S ($17,345) comes standard with air conditioning, four-wheel disc brakes, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, power door locks with remote keyless entry, power windows and mirrors, AM/FM stereo with four speakers and a single CD/MP3 player.

The SE adds a six-way power driver seat, two additional speakers, redundant speed and audio controls on the steering wheel, dual illuminated mirrors in the sun visors and carbon fiber center stack applique.

The SEL adds fog lamps, 17-inch wheels, automatic temperature control, upgraded wood or piano black interior trim, premium six-disc in-dash CD/MP3 player, leather wrapped steering wheel and an analog clock.

A 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 221 horsepower coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission is available for the SE and SEL. (No manual transmission is offered with the V6.)

Leather seating is optional and a power moonroof is available.

Safety features include optional side curtain airbags for head protection in both roads, seat-mounted side-impact airbags for thorax protection for the front seats, anti-lock brakes (ABS) and traction control.

Walkaround

The Ford Fusion actually has presence, amazing in a segment where most cars blend in. Some people like the aggressive, angular look, some don't.

It starts with the large headlights that rise up into the top edge of the front fender, which features a crisp fold along the top edge that runs all the way back along the edge of the roof to the trunk. Three thick chrome bars across the grille also make the car look more upmarket than its pricing might suggest. The front bumper almost disappears as there are two chrome strips below it that match the ones on the grille.

The Fusion has a wide track, which makes it stand out on the freeway when viewed from behind. A high trunk line and large triangular taillight clusters with chrome trim give the rear end a classy look, not unlike some newer Cadillacs.

Overall, the Fusion is slightly smaller than the Taurus it replaces, but it has much the same dimensions as its competitors. Although the Fusion shares the same basic floorpan as the Mazda 6 its wheelbase is two inches longer and it is an inch or so wider. Ford also says it is a stiffer bodyshell than the Mazda6, which is good.

Interior Features

In keeping with its European influence, Ford has chosen to go with the soft touch for surface materials, which is expected in a luxury car but not in a mass-market car.

The dashboard is a straightforward design that runs horizontally across the car's width with just a binnacle above the instrument pod. It contains four small gauges that are easy to read as they are separated from each other rather than overlapping and the figures are in a large font. Decent sized control buttons for the radio and climate controls should please everyone.

The center stack is simple, but nothing to write home about. The car we drove had a dark charcoal interior so everything was finished in black. The optional two-tone interior, especially the dark stone and camel with faux wood trim looks more inviting.

A convenient storage bin on top of the dashboard features a large clamshell lid and it's big enough to hold a phone or small camera as well as maps and the like. The center console, door pockets, and front seatback pockets provide additional storage.

Rear-seat passengers will find a decent amount of leg room with nicely shaped front seatbacks that allow for plenty of foot space. Head and leg room measurements don't put the Fusion at the top of its class, but the back seat feels roomier than the numbers suggest.

The Fusion has a good-size trunk with a flat floor and low lift over. The scissor-type hinges avoid the annoyance of luggage being crushed by gooseneck hinges. All Fusion models include a 60/40 split rear seatback, which allows for a generous amount of pass-through space.

Driving Impressions

The Mazda6 and Ford Focus have established themselves as class-leading cars when it comes to handling. Ford openly admits that it's taken these traits from the two cars to make sure the Fusion inherits the same attributes. Judging by our all-too-brief test drive in a V6-powered Fusion SEL we can say they have succeeded.

On the road, the Ford Fusion feels bigger than it looks, but it handled curvy mountain roads above Hollywood with ease. The rack-and-pinion steering was precise with just the right amount of weight to make the driver feel connected to the road without being twitchy.

In the past, a car that handled well often came with a stiff ride. That's certainly not the case with the Fusion. Its long wheelbase and wide track puts the four wheels at the corners for good handling and a better ride. The front suspension is a short/long arm design while the rear wheels are anchored through a multi-link setup. Improved bushings and hydraulic engine mounts keep vibration and road noise to a minimum.

The 221-horsepower V6 engine provides enough power, although the Fusion will not likely be mistaken for a sports sedan. According to Ford's own tests the Fusion can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 8 seconds, a reasonable performance though not as quick as the V6 versions of the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.

The six-speed automatic transmission is very smooth. Shift into Drive and it works well. However, drivers who want more control won't find it here. Shifting from D to L only locks out fifth and sixth gears. Also, there's no indicator showing the driver what gear it's in at any given moment and around town it's difficult to tell by feel.

The Fusion V6 manages 29 mpg on the highway, according to the EPA. That's quite respectable for a V6 and the four-cylinder model with the five-speed manual betters this figure by a couple of miles per gallon.

We have not yet had the opportunity to try a Fusion with a four-cylinder engine. Considering the improved performance, smoother six-speed automatic transmission and almost identical fuel consumption, the V6 model is probably the best value for most buyers. Because of this, Ford expects more than half of Fusion buyers will opt for the V6 models.

Summary

The new Ford Fusion combines the best features of a great European economy car with those a sporty Japanese sedan. The Fusion offers the sporty handling of the Mazda 6 and the value and comfort of the Ford Focus. Safety features are optional, however.

New Car Test Drive correspondent John Rettie filed this report from Hollywood, California.

2005 Ford Mustang

2005 Ford Mustang Exciting new model revives the ponycar. By Jim McCraw

Introduction

The Ford Mustang has been the icon of American performance since its 1964 introduction, popular for its bold style, rear-wheel drive performance and affordable price. The Mustang started the ponycar genre, and now, after 40 years of competition with the Camaro, Firebird and others, it's the only one left.

The new Mustang represents a clean-sheet design, riding on an all-new platform. It's faster, more agile and better looking than ever. It rides smoother, The interior is beautifully done.

The Mustang V-6 Deluxe coupe comes well equipped for less than $20,000. The Mustang GT boasts a new multi-valve, overhead-cam V8 that produces 300 horsepower and is available with a Tremec five-speed manual or an automatic.

Model Lineup

The new Mustang is being offered in coupe and convertible versions, though the convertibles won't be available until spring 2005. The coupe comes in Deluxe, Premium, GT and GT Premium trim levels.

The base V-6 Deluxe coupe ($18,785) comes with a 210-horsepower 4.0-liter sohc V6 engine and a new Tremec 5-speed manual transmission, 16-inch painted cast aluminum wheels with all-season tires, air conditioning, dual power mirrors, rear window defroster, AM/FM stereo with single CD player, four-wheel power disc brakes, occupant classification air bags, power door locks with remote keyless entry, and power windows with driver and passenger one-touch up/down function.

Options for V-6 models include five-speed automatic transmission ($995), anti-lock brakes and all-speed traction control ($775), side-impact air bags ($370), leather seating surfaces ($695), an active anti-theft system ($255), an exterior sport appearance package ($295), and an interior upgrade package ($450). The Premium package ($585) adds 16-inch bright machined aluminum wheels with chrome spinners, a new Shaker 500-watt audio system with 6-disc CD changer and MP3 capability, and a 6-way power adjustable driver seat.

Mustang GT ($24,370) features a new 300-horsepower 4.6-liter sohc V8. GT standard equipment includes four-wheel power disc brakes with four-channel anti-lock braking and all-speed traction control, dual exhausts, front fog lamps, a rear spoiler, tilt steering wheel, 17-inch painted cast aluminum wheels with Z-rated performance tires, air conditioning, dual power mirrors and rear window defroster, AM/FM stereo with a single-CD player, occupant-sensing air bags, power door locks with remote keyless entry, and power windows with one-touch up/down operation.

GT Premium ($1,335) comes with the Shaker 500-watt audio system with 6-disc CD player and MP3 capability and Aberdeen leather-trimmed embossed sport bucket seats. Options on all Mustang GTs include the five-speed automatic transmission ($995), side-impact air bags ($370), 17-inch machined aluminum wheels ($195), active anti-theft system ($255), a Shaker 1000-watt audio system ($1,295), an interior upgrade package ($450), and an interior color enhancement package ($175).

Walkaround

Nothing says modern American sporty car better than this new Mustang. Its long hood and short rear deck capitalize on 40 years of Mustang history. The new Mustang features classic design cues that have defined Mustangs since the 1960s: C-scoops in the sides, three-element taillamps and a galloping horse badge in the center of the grille. Its menacing shark-like nose is reminiscent of the 1967 model.

The new Mustang is based on a modified version of the platform that underpins the Lincoln LS, the Jaguar S-Type, and the Ford Thunderbird, but with a new three-link live-axle rear suspension installed in place of the IRS under the luxury cars in order to keep the price down (the original idea was to offer the IRS as standard equipment, but it will likely be on the Cobra version when it comes). Ford reasons that more Mustang fans will favor the solid-axle rear suspension for their recreational track days and drag racing.

Everything under the car has been upgraded substantially from previous Mustang levels: bigger brakes by nearly 20 percent, completely new front and rear suspension designs that yield much quieter, smoother ride as well as much more precise steering and harder cornering, two new engines, two new transmissions, and a large-diameter (2.5 inches from end to end) performance exhaust system. There's nothing left of the old Mustang but the logos. Optional anti-lock brakes bundled with traction control give any driver much more of a fighting chance in bad situations.

Both new engines are mounted to their bodies with hydraulic engine mounts, which absorb and counteract vibration and pulsing, and the combination of the engine and transmission bolted together, is stiffer than previous designs, which should also add to quietness. The car absolutely bristles with other new technologies.

The Mustang heritage of low-cost performance and flashy styling has not been compromised one iota by putting the new car on the platform that Ford used to call the CDW. By adapting lots of ideas and components from luxury cars like the Jaguar S-Type, Lincoln LS, and Thunderbird that were previously built on the CDW model, they have given the Mustang a whole new level of sophistication that no Mustang before it ever had. We know, because we've driven every generation since the original debuted n the spring of 1964.

Interior Features

The interior of the new Mustang is sporty and crisp and beautifully done. There's a very heavy dose of 1967 Mustang interior design, with two distinct right and left pods. Because of the longer wheelbase and larger overall size, there is a lot more hip, leg, elbow and shoulder room inside this Mustang that in any previous generation Mustang.

In addition to the slick new interior decor, the new Mustang has the industry's first color-changeable instrument panel display, with 125 color schemes to choose from. It's easy to use, it's spectacular, and it works beautifully to brighten up your day, and especially your night, as you drive. And, speaking of brightening, there is more shiny metal on the interior, including the vent rings, steering wheel spokes and other bits, and on sunny days, that can cause some vision and glare problems for the driver.

We found the front bucket seats to be comfortable, supportive and retentive in hard corners, and in general, the interior looks like it belongs in a much more expensive car. There is an interior upgrade package that adds red leather seats, red door inserts and red floor mats on cars with appropriate exterior colors. Another package adds real aluminum trim to the interior for one more customization step.

The basic sound system that comes with the car is pretty darn good, but in this day and age of pervasive music, there has to be more, more wattage, more speakers, more power. To back that up, Ford offers not one but two optional AM/FM/CD changer systems, one with 500 watts, and one with, are you ready? 1000 watts of power, both systems with subwoofers in the doors, and the 1000-watter with two more subwoofers in the trunk.

Driving Impressions

The old Mustang, a modified, stiffened and welded version of the 1979 Fox platform, was about as stiff as wet rope, but this new all-steel Mustang body and chassis unit is a claimed 31 percent stiffer than the recently departed SN95 Mustang, which should improve ride quality, noise and handling.

It doesn't look it, but the new Mustang has a wheelbase that is a full six inches longer than the outgoing model, and that makes all the difference. The ride has smoothed out, and the remaining harshness is of a completely different order. The new rear suspension uses coil springs and a lightweight three-link design with a Panhard bar and other locators to keep things constant.

The new 4.0-liter V-6 engine has more technical sophistication than any previous Ford V-6. It is a very solid performer in urban, exurban and suburban duties, and the ratios in the automatic seem well matched to the available torque. When the automatic transmission gets into overdrive fifth gear, the engine goes quietly into economy mode until called upon for a lane change, a pass, or an uphill charge. But it's still a large-displacement V-6 and it sounds more muscular at full throttle than any previous Ford V-6 engine.

The V-6 Deluxe is the most popular model; Ford says that for every three GTs sold, it will sell seven of the V-6 versions. At this low price, we were particularly impressed with its power, torque, acceleration, and general road manners, including its pretty, rorty exhaust note. Interestingly, while it has 90 horsepower and 80 foot-pounds less grunt than the V-8 and rides on smaller tires, the V-6 seems slightly more eager to turn and more agile than the nose-heavy GT V-8 (the GT weighs about 150 pounds more, and almost all of it is on the front tires).

The Mustang is relatively heavy, and the brakes are a whopping 15 percent larger than the old brakes; they really work well in high-speed highway driving situations, as we found out on our test drive in Los Angeles. If you want ABS, you will automatically get, and pay for, traction control, which has a dash-mounted off switch for special situations, like racing, for instance.

The GT is a 300-horsepower, five-speed pavement-ripper for about $25,000. The new three-valve V-8 engine features both variable camshaft timing and electronic throttle control, with a new set of smarter, faster-acting engine electronic controls. It will run 0-60 mph in about 5.5 seconds, it will outbrake a large number of sporty cars with its big new brakes, and it handles better on canyon roads that any previous Mustang except the Cobra, with a minimum of body roll and a large portion of tire grip.

It looks mean, and it drives mean, with 320 pound-feet of torque, a slick shifter, a brawny, loud exhaust note, and one of the world's largest aftermarket networks, including Ford's in-house parts company, Ford Racing Technology, for those who want even higher performance.

Summary

The Mustang has been so popular for so long that, over time, it simply blew the old Barracuda, the Challenger, the Camaro, the Firebird and the AMC AMX and Javelin pretenders right off the street. It started the ponycar genre, and now, after 40 years of street and track competition, it's the only one left.

There is nothing else that says modern American sporty car better than this new Mustang. Its combination of high style, performance, and handling with a light touch can't be beat for this kind of money, and early indications are that the quality should be far better than any previous Mustang. Ford is planning on building about 175,000 of these a year, and we think they're shooting low. Way low.

New Car Test Drive correspondent Jim McCraw filed this report from Los Angeles.

Ford Focus

2006 Ford Focus Smooth and fun.By New Car Test Drive

Introduction

The Ford Focus is inexpensive, stylish, practical and fun. We found it more comfortable than some of the other compact cars, with roomy, cushy seats and a nice balance between a soft, smooth ride and responsive handling. It feels more European than Japanese or American in demeanor and a little more refined than, say, the Saturn Ion and Dodge Neon. A choice of body styles and running gear make the Focus appealing for many different types of people.

The sedans are comfortable and move people efficiently. The three-door hatchback is economical and practical yet sporty and fun at the same time. The five-door hatchback makes it easier for rear-seat passengers to join in the merriment. The wagons can carry a ton of cargo. We found the sporty ZX4 ST fun to drive, if a bit noisy. It delivered strong acceleration from its 151-horsepower engine with sharp handling and precise steering from its sports suspension. It ranks among the most enjoyable cars in its class.

The Focus benefited from extensive upgrades inside and out for 2005 so there are relatively few changes for the 2006 models. New options for 2006 include a package that bundles popular safety and convenience features. A new Street Appearance Package adds a unique face, foglamps, lower air deflector, rear bumper and spoiler designed to give the Focus the look of a tuner car.

Buyers of early models had to endure a string of recalls, but those problems appear to have been solved.

Model Lineup

The 2006 Ford Focus comes in four body styles: the ZX3, a three-door hatchback; the ZX4, a four-door sedan; the ZX5, a five-door hatchback; and the ZXW, a wagon.

Three engines are offered. All models but the ZX4 ST come with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. They are paired with a five-speed manual transmission or four-speed automatic. The ZX4 ST comes with a 151-horsepower 2.3-liter four-cylinder and five-speed manual.

The ZX3 ($13,465), ZX4 ($14,075), and ZX5 ($14,780) are available in base S trim. The S trim level comes with manual driver's seat-height adjustment, split-folding rear seat, AM/FM/CD, and 15-inch wheels. (The destination charge adds another $545 to all of these manufacturer's suggested retail prices.) Air conditioning is optional ($910).

SE trim for ZX3 ($14,985), ZX4 ($15,590), ZX5 ($16,300), and ZXW ($17,310) adds air conditioning, an overhead console, AM/FM/CD/MP3, dual power mirrors, power windows and locks, and remote keyless entry.

SES trim for ZX3 ($16,095), ZX4 ($16,700), ZX5 ($17,410), and ZXW ($18,420) adds a tilt/telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel, audio controls mounted on the steering wheel, fog lamps, tachometer, AM/FM/6CD/MP3, and 16-inch alloy wheels.

The high-performance ZX4 ST ($18,220) includes a sport-tuned exhaust; the ST suspension with unique 16-inch alloy wheels; four-wheel disc brakes with traction control; decklid spoiler and lower body moldings; chrome-tipped exhaust; body-color, heated outside mirrors; leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob with contrast stitching; and sporty interior fabrics and instrument panel different from the other versions.

Safety features that come on all Focus models include second-generation front airbags (that shut off the passenger-side airbag if it is unoccupied or occupied by a small child), child safety seat attachments, and child locks on the rear doors. Side-impact airbags ($350) are available for all models, and we strongly recommend getting them. Anti-lock brakes ($400) and traction control ($115) are available for most models. ABS helps the driver maintain steering control in an emergency braking situation; just remember to maintain firm pressure on the brake pedal and look and steer where you want the car to go.

Options include a four-speed automatic transmission ($815), power moonroof ($625), leather upholstery, heated front seats, an alarm system and an Audiophile sound system with Sony speakers and subwoofer.

Walkaround

The Ford Focus was a head-turner when it was first introduced in 2000. Its styling at the time was fresh and innovative. Styling revisions for 2005 gave it a more refined, more grownup appearance, but it continues with same general theme of sweeping arcs and crisp creases that we've grown accustomed to.

Styling revisions to the front of the Focus for '05 were designed to complement the look of the Ford Five Hundred, the company's flagship sedan. Its hood and fenders fall away less sharply than the original to make the car look more substantial and to create a better sight line of the edge of the car for easier parking.

The most noticeable change is the larger grille with the diamond pattern ringed in chrome. Other details include reshaped headlamps with clear lenses and a fascia that incorporates a wide lower air intake, and round fog lamps.

Interior Features

The interior features a traditional look, and is much less cluttered than the original Focus. The instrument panel is symmetrical with the driver and passenger areas divided by two rectangular climate control registers, the hazard switch and a shallow center stack for the audio and climate controls.

On two-tone models, the lower portions of the instrument panel and door trim panels are finished in a lighter shade for a more open feeling. Cloth and leather upholstery are offered. The ZX4 ST has unique woven fabrics or suede seating surfaces surrounded with leather trim.

A standard floor console houses the shifter, two cupholders, the parking brake, and controls for options such as traction control. An overhead console includes a sunglasses holder and a space for a garage door opener. Storage is also provided in the front doors, which feature molded-in bottle holders.

A CD player with MP3 capability is standard on all models. Models with the optional six-disc CD changer feature audio controls on the steering wheel.

Driving Impressions

The Ford Focus is notable for its spirited driving dynamics.

The 136-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is the base engine for most of the country. In California, New York, Massachusetts, Vermont and Maine, the Focus comes standard with a super-clean, 130-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder.

Fuel economy is good: The base engine earns an EPA rating of 26/35 mpg City/Highway with the five-speed manual, 26/32 with the four-speed automatic. More important, it puts out much lower emissions so it meets California's PZEV (Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle) standards.

The Focus ZX4 ST is fun to drive. Ford borrowed pieces of the suspension from the European-market Focus and the 2004 Focus SVT to make the ZX4 ST more performance oriented than the other models. It borrows the front struts and rear shocks from those models, and they are 50 percent stiffer than the ones on the SE and SES versions. The ZX4 ST comes with unique 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels and Pirelli all-season radials. The package provides sharp handling response, precise steering and generally an enjoyable connection with the road.

We found the higher horsepower engine in the Focus ZX4 ST delivered strong acceleration performance and cruised easily on the highway. The only complaint with the engine was noise. Despite efforts by Ford engineers to quiet the cabin, the ZX4 ST was noisy even when cruising at highway speeds. The 151-horsepower 2.3-liter four-cylinder that goes in the ZX4 ST gets an EPA-rated 23/32 mpg.

Summary

The Ford Focus is inexpensive, stylish, practical and fun, and it appears Ford has fixed the quality problems that plagued the 2000 and 2001 models. The Focus boasts an extra-long powertrain warranty of five years or 100,000 miles and the improvements have boosted its quality ratings.

Michelle Krebs filed the original report, with New Car Test Drive editor Mitch McCullough reporting from Los Angeles.

Ford Expedition

2006 Ford Expedition The standard for the class.By New Car Test Drive

IntroductionNow in its fourth season since its last major redesign and facing new competition, the Ford Expedition remains the established benchmark in this class. Expedition is smooth, stable and refined. The Expedition benefits from a four-wheel-independent suspension, an unusually sophisticated design for this class, which gives it a smooth ride and responsive handling. Expedition also benefits from Ford's 5.4-liter V8 featuring three valves per cylinder and variable valve timing, which produces 300 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. What Expedition does best is move large quantities of people and their gear. Its perfectly flat cargo area makes it particularly adept at hauling. The available PowerFold third-row seat folds perfectly flat with the press of a button. Open the seat back up, and Expedition can carry up to eight passengers. And Ford hasn't forgotten the special needs of children. The second row features CenterSlide, a small center seat that slides forward to give parents in the front seat access to a child in a safety seat. A rear-seat DVD system is available for entertainment. And the Reverse Sensing System can alert the driver as the Expedition is backed toward an object such as a parked car, a short pole, or a child on a tricycle. When properly equipped, the Expedition is rated to tow up to 8900 pounds. All of this makes the Expedition a good choice for families with a boat or horse. The popular Eddie Bauer model best exemplifies the Expedition with its luxurious and inviting interior and feature details that make for a more comfortable and convenient ride. Limited and King Ranch models feature special trim colors and come loaded with luxury features. Model Lineup The 2006 Ford Expedition is offered in five trim levels: XLS, XLT, Eddie Bauer, Limited, and King Ranch. Each of these is available with rear-wheel drive (2WD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). All are powered by a 5.4-liter overhead-cam V8 with variable valve timing and three valves per cylinder. New last year, this engine develops 300 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. The only available transmission is a four-speed automatic. XLS ($33,455) and XLS 4WD ($36,055) are the value-conscious models. They come well equipped, but offer little in the way of options. Standard features on XLS include four-wheel-disc brakes with ABS, air conditioning, tilt steering column, cruise control, privacy glass, fold-away power mirrors with approach lamps, power locks with remote keyless entry and SecuriLock security system, automatic headlamps, AM/FM/CD stereo, a Class III trailer hitch with a four-pin connector, and 17-inch steel wheels. Seats are three cloth-covered benches: split 60/40 in the first row with six-way power for the driver; split 40/20/40 in the second row to allow the CenterSlide feature; and split 60/40 in the third row. XLT ($35,505) and XLT 4WD ($38,285) add auxiliary rear air conditioning and heat controls, overhead console with storage, auto-dimming rearview mirror, illuminated vanity mirrors, color-keyed door handles, the tire-pressure monitoring system, fog lamps, running boards, and aluminum wheels. Many more options are available on XLT than XLS. An appearance package called XLT Sport ($860) adds Dark Shadow Grey exterior cladding and wheel-lip moldings, high-gloss black tubular step bars, and a two-tone grille treatment. An Off-Road Package ($320) is available for XLT 4WD comprising skid plates and specially tuned shock absorbers, Eddie Bauer 2WD ($39,720) and 4WD ($42,905) add automatic climate control, leather captain's chairs with power and memory for the driver and manual lumbar support on both sides, power adjustable pedals with memory, power heated exterior mirrors with turn signals and approach lamps, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio and climate controls, floor, message center, audiophile stereo with an in-dash six-CD changer, and a keypad for the keyless entry system. Eddie Bauer models are distinguished by machined aluminum wheels, Pueblo Gold running boards and a generous helping of Pueblo Gold trim. Limited 2WD ($41,515) and 4WD ($44,700) differ from the Eddie Bauer primarily in color scheme, but add eight-way power and memory for the front seats. Upholstery is monochromatic leather; complex-reflector headlamps are blacked out; wheel lips, cladding, and mirrors are body color; and the wheels, exhaust tip, and roof rails are chromed. King Ranch 2WD ($43,155) and 4WD ($46,340) add unique machined aluminum wheels, Pueblo Gold body cladding and step bars, a chrome-tipped exhaust, and the PowerFold third-row seat. The interior is trimmed in woodgrain and Castano leather, and the King Ranch logo is generously applied inside and out. Safety for all models is enhanced by Expedition's big, rigid frame and low front bumper. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) come standard on all models and can help the driver maintain steering control when standing on the brakes. Dual-stage front airbags are standard, of course. Safety features that are optional on some models include the Safety Canopy air curtain system ($595), designed to offer head protection for first- and second-row passengers in the event of a rollover or side impact. The Reverse Sensing System ($255) can alert the driver as the Expedition is backed toward an object such as a parked car, a short pole, or a child on a tricycle. AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control ($595), Ford's electronic stability control system, monitors traction at all wheels, plus the rate of change of body lean, and automatically cuts power or selectively applies one or more wheel brakes to correct a skid or prevent a rollover. We strongly recommend all of these features. Power-adjustable pedals ($120) give shorter drivers a safer seating position, allowing them to move farther from the front airbag. Other options include a DVD rear-seat entertainment package ($1,500), a navigation system ($1,995), a power glass moonroof ($860), and the PowerFold rear seat ($495). Walkaround The Ford Expedition is larger than the Chevy Tahoe, but smaller than the Suburban. It's slightly larger than the Toyota Sequoia and about the same size as the Nissan Armada. All of them are considerably larger than the Dodge Durango. The Expedition has a towering presence, thanks to the raised center section of its sloped-down hood. Big 17-inch wheels enhance its bold look. Bumpers are smoothly integrated into the overall design. Expedition's slab sides, forward-slanting C-pillar, and relatively simple front-end treatment all contribute to its unmistakable Ford identity. Door handles are the full-grip variety, making them easier for occupants to grab, whether left- or right-handed, gloved or not gloved. Expedition's low bumper beams are designed to prevent smaller cars from sliding beneath its frame in an accident. Interior Features An attractive cabin makes the Ford Expedition a pleasant place to be on long trips. Shapes are round, and controls are hefty for an easy grip. This is particularly true of the upper-level models such as the Eddie Bauer and Limited. The Eddie Bauer Expedition features handsome leather trim that's warm and friendly with metallic satin finish trim on the rings that surround vents and door handles. The lighter upholstery colors give the Expedition a lighter, more car-like air. Lower-level models are nice, too, with padded door trim in nicely contrasting materials that looks and feels good. Storage space is generous, a great feature for a big family vehicle. The roomy pockets in all four doors have space for a 20-ounce water bottle. The center console (that comes in most models) can hold a small laptop computer. The console has a slot to hold pens and a Palm Pilot or other PDAs. Its lid is comfortably padded, and feels nice to the touch even on the XLT, where it's covered in faux leather. The available power-operated (PowerFold) third-row seats fold flat with the press of a button. The third-row seat is split 60/40. Push one button on the wall of the cargo area, and one side powers down. Hold down the other button, and the other side powers down. The power-down buttons are convenient. The third row disappears into the floor, leaving a perfectly flat cargo area. It is an impressive piece of engineering to watch as the seat folds down and flaps gracefully flop into place to cover the gap between the cargo floor and hinged seats. The power third-row seat is invaluable when changing roles from people hauler to a cargo hauler and back again with just a press of a button. Expedition's third row is comfortable enough for a couple of full-size adults. When no one is seated back there, the third-row headrests can be pushed down flush with the seatbacks, greatly improving the driver's rearward visibility. With the seats folded down, the cargo floor is perfectly flat, in contrast to many SUVs, which have a slanting platform. The Expedition's flat floor, combined with the flaps that cover the gap where the seats hinge, makes it easy to slide objects in and out. Another nice feature is the window in the liftgate that opens so you can quickly load or unload stuff without opening the whole liftgate. The second-row bench seat splits roughly into thirds. The middle section can be moved forward 11 inches, almost abutting it to the back of the front center console. Ford calls this feature CenterSlide, and it gives front-seat parents easier access to a small child in a safety seat. The small center seatback can also be folded down and used as a work surface for two people in back. The two outboard second-row seats fold easily forward for access to the third-row seat. The Reverse Sensing System is available as a stand-alone option for 2006. It's a great feature, particularly on large SUVs, whose rearward blind spot can be three times as large as a sedan's. A tone alerts the driver to objects behind the vehicle whenever it's shifted in reverse. Don't depend on it, though, it's an aid and is not designed to absolve drivers of the responsibility of looking where they're going. Some of Expedition's interior systems are programmable, and the programming is relatively easy. Tired of fighting those automatic locks? You can turn off the auto-locking feature. You can set whether the seat automatically moves back when you shut off the ignition. You can decide whether you want the right mirror to automatically tilt down when reverse is selected. The optional navigation system has a nice bright screen. It works well, but like all navigation systems, takes some time to master. Driving Impressions The Ford Expedition is the standard bearer for the class for several reasons. Its sharp steering, and smooth, robust acceleration make it easy and enjoyable to drive. Ford's 5.4-liter V8 delivers strong power, excellent fuel efficiency and low emissions. This Triton V8 is a modern, sophisticated engine with single overhead camshafts and three valves per cylinder in aluminum heads. Rated at 300 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. Two-wheel-drive models are rated to tow up to 8,900 pounds (8,600 with 4WD). Fuel economy is 14/19 mpg City/Highway (14/18 with 4WD). Ride quality is an important consideration for a family vehicle and the Expedition offers a good ride for the most part, even over broken pavement. Potholes and rough pavement are heard more than felt. It is not a magic carpet ride, though, and it's important to remember that the Expedition is a full-size truck. On the other hand, the Expedition provides the driver with feedback rather than isolation. The Expedition benefits from an independent rear suspension, almost unheard-of in a full-size truck. (The Lincoln Navigator is the only other example that comes to mind.) Though more expensive, the independent rear suspension offers better handling and a smoother ride than the live rear axle commonly used on trucks and full-size SUVs. On the highway, the Expedition inspires confidence. It's stable at high speeds. We were conversing in a relaxed manner at 90-100 mph in an Eddie Bauer while whistling around a high-speed oval at Ford's Michigan proving grounds. When the road is windy, the Expedition offers sharp steering response. Small inputs to the steering wheel are answered immediately by its car-like rack-and-pinion steering. The four-wheel disc brakes are smooth and responsive. The Expedition comes standard with ABS and Brake Assist. Brake Assist is designed to recognize a panic-braking situation and maintain full braking force even if the driver mistakenly relaxes pressure on the brake pedal. Summary Ford Expedition remains a benchmark against a strong field of full-size SUVs. The Expedition features a smooth ride for passengers and responsive handling for the driver. It can haul a big load of cargo on its flat cargo floor and it can tow heavy trailers. Clever features such as the power folding third row and the independent rear suspension make it enjoyable to own. Michelle Krebs filed the original report from Detroit. New Car Test Drive editor Mitch McCullough contributed to this report.

Marc Heitz Ford supports our troops

The men and women of the United States armed forces deserve our thanks and respect. Effective April 4, 2006, through January 2, 2007, all active military personnel will be eligible for the Ford $500 Military Appreciation Bonus Cash program. Qualifying buyers will receive $500 Bonus Cash good toward the purchase or lease of any new 2005/2006 model year Ford car, SUV or truck (through F-550).

Marc Heitz Ford is proud to offer up this incentive program to the courageous individuals who make Great personal sacrifices to preserve our freedoms. At home and abroad, the men and women on active duty dedicate their time and risk their lives to protect our country. Keep up the good work.