Doug DeMuro gives the 2026 Ford Contour SVT a positive 74/100 rating, praising it as a fun and rare performance sedan that delivers excellent cabin tech (83/100) with white-faced gauges and leather steering wheel, strong performance (70/100) with a 200-horsepower V6 and mandatory manual transmission, and impressive reliability and value (both 100/100) for those seeking something unique. The main weakness is the design execution (27/100), where the aggressive body kit with flared rocker panels and dual exhaust comes across as trying too hard rather than refined. This car is for niche enthusiasts who want an under-the-radar performance sedan they won't see on every street corner, but not for buyers prioritizing sleek or subtle styling.