2002 Mercury Grand Marquis: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

This traditional rear-drive sedan adds a few standard features and treats option groups as separate models for 2002. The lineup consists of GS, GS Convenience, LS Premium, LS Ultimate, and top-line LSE editions. All have a 4.6-liter V8, 4-speed automatic transmission, 16-inch wheels and 4-wheel disc brakes, and--newly standard for '02--heated door mirrors, ABS, and traction control. Horsepower is 220 except on LSE, which has 235 plus performance tires and uprated suspension with rear load-leveling. The LSE also has front bucket seats with console shift vs. the other models' 3-person bench and column shift. Power-adjustable pedals are standard except on the base GS. Leather upholstery is now a no-charge option for LS models and standard for LSE. Grand Marquis shares its design with the Ford Crown Victoria and offers similar performance and accommodations. Revamped 2003 versions of both are due in summer 2002 with Grand Marquis getting a high-performance Marauder version but no major styling changes.

COMPETITION

This segment has been hard hit by the popularity of sport-utility vehicles. Just a few years back there were more than 12 cars in the segment and now there are just seven. Heading up the field as Best Buys are the Chrysler Concorde and Dodge Intrepid twins. They have real room for six, exceptional road manners, and plenty of power.

Toyota's Avalon and Buick's LeSabre are two Recommended choices. Both have room for five and offer a comfortable ride (with modest handling capabilities). If you are looking for towing ability, the Ford Crown Victoria with its rear-drive layout and body-on-frame chassis is an option. Ford has updated it nicely over the years and it comes at a reasonable price.