Mercury Sable First Drive
Introduction
A partial redesign spruced up the Mercury Sable and its Ford Taurus sibling. Added safety features include dual-stage front air bags, side air bags, power adjustable pedals, and an internal escape release for the trunk. Nonetheless, the Sable and Taurus are showing their age. The ride is a bit better and handling is secure, but braking falls a little short. The rear seat is roomy, though rear access is a bit difficult. Most controls work well. And the wagon is the only one in this price range that offers a third-row, rear-facing seat, which boosts passenger capacity to eight. New for 2001 are universal lower anchor points for LATCH/ISOFIX child seats.