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The Five Hundred is a large sedan that makes its way into
this price point. And despite a standard V6 that offers neither exceptional
power nor competitive gas mileage, it could be considered the best family
sedan made. It is extremely roomy inside and in the trunk, achieved the
highest possible safety ratings, and rides comfortably and quietly. It even
handles well for its size. For some, its abilities will be worth the price
premium, though for others, the much cheaper competitors come close enough
to be better choices.
The Five Hundred has a
firm, well-controlled ride, though it isn’t quite as absorbent as some of
its softer-sprung competitors. This firmness also helps handling control,
the Five Hundred has impressively well-contained body roll, and feels quite
nimble for its size, more like a midsize car than a large one. This does
not, however, make it fun to drive, it comes off as composed more than
enjoyable. The steering is responsive and well-weighted, and even returns
good feedback, though driving the car quickly never does feel rewarding. A
3.0-liter V6 is the only available engine, which, given the Five Hundred’s
size, makes it only marginally quicker than much of the 4-cylinder
competition. The engine gets a bit noisy under hard acceleration. Wind and
road noise are unobjectionable. Fuel economy is good for a large V6 sedan,
but mediocre by this group’s standards.
Inside, the Five
Hundred’s high, large, and well-shaped front seats offer excellent head
space, though there could be more foot space, and the cushions are a bit
firm. The rear is high and reasonably well-shaped, with phenomenal leg and
head space, but it too could be softer.
 The
dash is well-finished, but constructed using a few too many hard plastics.
The gauges could be a bit larger, but most instruments are simple and
conveniently placed. Drivers sit very high and comfortably, with exceptional
visibility in all directions. Large doors, wide footwells, and a high,
well-shaped roof contribute to very easy entry/exit. The vast trunk is the
largest of any current passenger car.
The Five Hundred reviewed
here came in at $21,020, pushing the group’s price limit without optional
equipment. The car’s standard equipment includes a 6-way power driver’s
seat, a keypad entry system, a trip computer, and alloy wheels.
Overall, for a
combination of safety and interior space, along with competent driving
dynamics, there is no better choice in this class than the Five Hundred.
Many other family sedans are less expensive and also have roomy interiors
and trunks and good safety ratings, but none is better in either area.
Consider the Five Hundred despite its flaws and price, especially after a
new engine is introduced next year and it is renamed the Taurus.
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