The "Futura" (which is what I will call it until Corperate annonces the new name) is going to be riding a slightly modified Mazda6 platform. It will be a few inches larger in every dimension. It is the replacement for the Taurus. Its internal dimensions will be surperior to the Taurus. It will have more power. It will be quieter, and it will equal the Taurus in performance in is basic forms, and will exceed the Taurus in EVERY REGIME IN UPPER TRIMS. They are borrowing some of the European Focus and Mondeo platforms.
It does drawn its styling from the 427 concept.
It will be available with at least 3 engine choices: 2.3I4, 2.3I4 Hybrid, and 3.0 V6. We have also heard rumblings of AWD, a few different gear boxes (CVT, 6spd auto (same as the Five Hundred)). An even softer rumbling came from our Ford rep about 6 weeks ago. The new 3.5l V6 is set for release in the 2006 MY Five Hundreds and Freestyles as an option. The rep said (and this is as close to word for word as I can get): "SVT is looking into creating an 'up-engined' Futura to match the higher performance options available from DaimlerChrysler, GM, and Japanese automakers". The 3.5 is slated for 245-280hp based on application.
Do the math: 280 hp, 6 speed manual, AWD, 2800 pounds. Can you say YEHAW?
EDIT:
And I cant belive noone else has thought of "Fairlane" if "Futura" doesnt go through.