2002 Mercury Cougar: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Mercury cages the Cougar after the 2002 model year, when it will discontinue this slow-selling sporty coupe. For its final season, Cougar comes in price-leader 4-cyl form and in base-trim V6 and V6 Sport, Sport Premium, and Sport Ultimate models. Added midyear was a V6 35th Anniversary Edition package. Automatic transmission is optional for V6s only. Cruise control, remote keyless entry, and rear wiper/washer are standard on all Cougars. Sports come with rear disc brakes (vs. drums) and 16-inch wheels (vs. 15s). Front side airbags are standard for Sport Ultimate, unavailable on other models. Sport Ultimate also includes ABS and traction control, which are available for other V6 Cougars. Sports offer an XR package with 17-inch wheels, hood scoop, spoilers, and special interior appointments. The Anniversary Edition builds on the XR package with unique emblems and hood scoop, chromed 17-inch wheels, and an in-dash CD changer.

COMPETITION

Our only Best Buy in this class, the Volkswagen New Beetle, offers interesting styling and a nice mix of comfort, performance, and economy. The New Beetle is the most practical and affordable in this class.

If raw performance is what you are after, we Recommend the fun-to-drive Acura RSX and Toyota Celica. These cars offer a lot of bang for your buck.