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That's not to say the Five Hundred isn't without its share of advantages over formidable sedans like the Chevrolet Impala, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord and even the Chrysler 300.

While technically a midsize sedan, the Five Hundred has an incredible amount of interior room; it's larger than almost every competitor in its class, including the 300. And, because occupants sit four inches higher than in other midsize sedans, Ford says the vehicle's interior offers SUV-like "command seating" with a clearer view of the road (it's still about five inches lower than the Ford Explorer). The added height makes it easier to enter and exit the vehicle.

The Five Hundred's trunk is enormous with more than 21 cubic feet of space. Ford claims you can put eight full-size golf bags in the trunk. The Chrysler 300 has 15.6 and Accord has 14.0 cubic feet.

The Five Hundred is built on the Ford-owned Volvo P2 platform, the same one used for Volvo's S60 and popular XC90 SUV. While front wheel drive is standard, any Five Hundred model can be ordered with the Volvo-derived all-wheel-drive system for an additional $1700.

The Five Hundred is available in three well-equipped trim levels, the entry SE ($22,145) with standard automatic CVT transmission, air conditioning, power driver's seat, AM/FM/CD, anti-lock brakes, traction control, speed control, one-touch automatic driver's power window, power folding side mirrors and remote keyless entry.

The mid-level SEL model ($26,245) adds wood grain interior trim, automatic climate control, power passenger seat with a fold-flat seatback, fog lights, heated side mirrors, a message center with compass and outside temperature display, power passenger seat, 17-inch aluminum wheels and steering wheel audio controls. Top of the line Limited ($27,845) adds 18-inch wheels, leather seating, memory function for driver's seat and mirrors, bright grille treatment, analog clock, heated front seats, Homelink and audiophile system.

Options are limited but include power moon roof, reverse-sensing warning system, leather seating, power-adjustable pedals and side airbags and side curtain protection.

Unlike the Chrysler 300, which has three engine options (including the powerful 5.7-liter Hemi), Ford finds itself at a disadvantage with only one engine across the model lineup, the less-than-powerful Duratec 3.0-liter V-6 that generates 203 horsepower. While 203 horsepower isn't necessarily anemic (Camry comes standard with a 160-horsepower four-cylinder) it's a disadvantage when compared to the numerous engine options offered by competitors. Add the fact that the Five Hundred SE weighs in at 3664 lbs. and the all-wheel-drive model tips the scales at 3815 lbs., it's asking for a lot from 203 horses.

While I'm at it, I'll get my final gripe out of the way. The Five Hundred's looks won't turn a single head. The exterior profile has a remarkable resemblance to the Volkswagen Passat. Its styling isn't so much offensive, rather just dull and bland - lacking personality. It's such a disappointment that Ford designers wouldn't take a chance like Chrysler did with the 300 and Dodge with the Magnum.

That said, Ford will probably sell plenty of Five Hundreds. They plan to build about 120,000 of them annually, which is far short of Chevrolet's 300,000 Impalas. Rental car fleets have helped sales volume for Ford Taurus, and the Crown Victoria has been a mainstay among taxi companies and police departments.

If you're a Ford loyalist I recommend you check out the Five Hundred's clone, the Mercury Montego. The only difference in the two vehicles is some nice touches to the grille, taillamps and wheels. Add some upscale touches to the interior and "viola!" I can't explain why it works, but the Montego is aesthetically much more pleasing than the Five Hundred. Maybe it's the trademark "waterfall" Lincoln grille and premium touches to the otherwise staid interior, but it's amazing how the looks are transformed. Montego still isn't in the same class as the Chrysler 300, but it comes a lot closer to "Redefining the North American Sedan" than does the Five Hundred.

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