Mercury Sable First Drive
Introduction
The Sable, like its Ford Taurus stablemate, is a good car but is showing its age. The ride is firm and well controlled, and handling is secure, but the brakes fall a bit short. The optional 3.0-liter, 200-hp V6 performs well but isn't as smooth or responsive as comparable powerplants from Honda, Nissan, or Toyota. The rear seat is roomy but access is awkward. Most controls work well. With its small, rear-facing, third-row bench, the wagon has room for seven people--or eight if one chooses the bench-type front seat.