The 2005 Mercury Sable represents the final year of the fourth-generation design before the nameplate was briefly retired (and later brought back for a different platform). It is a mid-size sedan (or station wagon) that shared its chassis, engine, and most mechanical components with the Ford Taurus. Positioned as a slightly more "upscale" alternative to the Taurus, the 2005 Sable focused on a soft, comfortable ride, a spacious interior, and conservative American styling. It was favored by families and commuters looking for a dependable, no-frills luxury-lite experience