2003 Mercury Sable in Freeport, IL - $0

Although the name is familiar, this is an all-new sedan that replaces the Mercury Montego in the automaker’s lineup. While the new Sable shares the Montego architecture and platform, unique features set the new Mercury apart in the marketplace.

Offered in Sable and Sable Premier models and available in front or all-wheel drive configurations, the new Sable sedan is powered by a sophisticated 3.5L Duratec V6 prime mover, joined to a wide-ratio 6F six-speed automatic transmission. While the powertrain delivers 30 percent more horsepower than the previous engine, it is more fuel-efficient and produces lower emissions. It is also rated as a Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle.

On the road, the Sable is smooth, very quiet and impressively nimble. Steering is quick and responsive to driver inputs. Sable’s quiet and confident ride is further improved for 2008 with upgrades including revised strut towers, new dampers and springs in both front and rear, and a revised, retuned rear suspension.

Inside the cabin, the Sable team delivers interior quietness that rivals many luxury cars. Additionally, two tone interior trim with unique accents complements the modern, airy interior. Customers who prefer a more technical appearance can opt for Cyber Carbon, a deep, high-gloss accent that resembles carbon fiber. Alternatively, two modern wood grain accents -- Guitar Maple or San Macassar -â€" are available.

Standard cloth seating sports an updated and modern graphic design while the Premier Series offers supple two-tone leather seats detailed with contrast stitching and featuring a new, more modern, perforated pattern. The rectangular shapes of the perforations are placed farther apart for a more progressive contemporary look. The same pattern is repeated on the door panels.

The Sable carries forward the flexible seating configurations of the Montego with a 60/40 split and has fold flat second row seating. With the fold flat front passenger seat, items up to nine feet long can fit inside.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 112.9; overall length: 202.1; width: 74.5; height: 61.5 -- all vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 263 hp at 6,250 rpm and 249 lbs-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm.

Transmission: six-speed automatic with overdrive.

EPA fuel economy: 18 city/28 hwy., (FWD); 17 city/24 hwy., (AWD).

Cargo capacity: 21.2 cu. ft.

Parts content -â€" country of origin

Final assembly point: Chicago Heights, Ill.

US/Canada: 80 percent.

Engine and transmission: USA.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, head curtain airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, remote keyless entry, fog lights and traction control. Premier adds alarm system, garage door opener and automatic headlamp control. Optional safety features include: power adjustable pedals, AdvanceTrac stability control, remote control engine start, rear parking sensors and navigation system.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Powertrain: 5-year/60,000 mile.

Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited.

Roadside assistance: 5-year/60,000 mile, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2008 Mercury Sable sedan starts from $23,540 for the base FWD model up to $28,795 for the Premier AWD. Destination charges add $750.

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