The Montego is a very nice car, so its base model is not what you'd call basic - and we wouldn't expect it to be. It blends stylish aesthetic touches such as satin aluminum trim with standard features that enhance the comfort and convenience of all occupants.
The driver gets a 6-way power-adjust seat and a nice leather-wrapped wheel. But everyone gets to enjoy the Command Seating, which raises the driver about four inches higher than in the average sedan, providing a bit of a bird's-eye view of the road. It also increases legroom and eases entry and exit for all passengers.
The V6 power comes from a 3.0-liter, 203-horsepower Duratec engine that by many accounts should be stronger. The only available transmission for this trim is an innovative 6-speed automatic that adapts to your unique driving habits and accommodates them by setting its shift points to maximize efficiency in both power and fuel economy. On that note, you can expect 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
The Montego has earned great crash-test ratings and it can be outfitted with a full array of airbags with the standard Safety and Security Package (it adds side-impact and side-curtain units with rollover sensors).
Other standard equipment on the Luxury FWD trim includes split fold-down rear seatbacks, an AM/FM stereo with single-CD player, power side mirrors, 17-inch, 7-spoke painted aluminum wheels and a perimeter security system with alarm and remote lighting.
Available options consist of a power moonroof, leather seats with front heaters, a rear storage compartment/armrest with cupholders, the Cargo Management System, a Rear-Seat DVD Entertainment System, 18-inch, 8-spoke chrome-clad wheels. There's also a Reverse-Sensing System, which helps avoid collisions when you're backing up.
The Interior Comfort and Convenience Package boosts the Luxury factor with an upgraded stereo with 6-CD changer and MP3 capability, dual-zone auto climate control, auto headlights, outside temperature gauge, and an 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat and power-adjustable pedals, both with memory function.