All three trim levels (SE, SEL, Limited) share the same basic 3.5-liter V-6, six-speed automatic, and front-wheel-drive system. The top two editions have a paddleshifted automatic capable of holding gears to the 6700-rpm fuel cutoff as standard equipment and on-demand all-wheel drive as an $1850 option. The goodie list includes radar cruise control, a blind-spot warning system, Sync, voice-controlled navigation, and massaging front seats. Protective parents can program an optional MyKey to sound chimes when 45 mph is exceeded, to restrict radio volume and top speed, and to alert text-messaging teens with early low-fuel warnings.
Our hats are off to Ford for reinventing an American classic without a penny of taxpayer assistance.
The Specs:
ON SALE: August
PRICE: $25,995/$31,995 (SE/Limited)
ENGINE: 3.5-liter V-6, 263 hp, 249 lb-ft
DRIVE: Front- or 4-wheel