1999 Mercury Grand Marquis Review (continued)
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Walkaround

The Grand Marquis was restyled last year with a more vertical grille treatment, a different grille texture, complex reflector headlamps and new taillamps.

The Grand Marquis is a big, roomy car, with curb weight over 3900 pounds, a 114-inch wheelbase and an overall length of 212 inches. Bigger cars tend to be safer in crashes than smaller cars and that's true with the Grand Marquis. Its frame design helped it earn a five-star rating from the government for crash performance front and rear.

The front and rear extensions were strengthened last year. The front and rear suspensions were improved for a smoother, more vibration-free ride. The recirculating-ball steering system was upgraded with premium bearings and materials to improve steering feel and response. A power steering fluid cooler has been made standard.

Two models are available: $22,825 GS and $24,725 LS. (All prices include destination charges.)

LS comes with more standard equipment than GS, including floor mats, cruise control, power door locks, an illuminated keyless entry system, chrome wheel covers, a light group, and a bodyside tape stripe. The LS also comes with the dual-exhaust system, which significantly increases power output.

Option packages have been streamlined for 1999, which simplifies life for the factory, the dealers, and the customer. The $1,000 Premium Package includes alloy wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, electronic climate control, a power passenger seat and an auto-dimming mirror with compass. The $2,400 Ultimate Package adds anti-lock brakes, traction control, electronic instrumentation, and a premium sound system. A $460 Limited Package adds gold-plate aluminum wheels, exterior gold trim package, rear center console with cupholders, dual front storage arm rests and light parchment leather trim.

Don't want all that stuff? This year, the anti-lock brake system is available as a separate, free-standing option for $600. We highly recommend it as it allows the driver to maintain steering control during emergency braking maneuvers. For $775, you can get ABS and traction control; traction control uses the anti-lock brake system to reduce wheel spin -- a big benefit on slippery roads.

Interior Features

Settle into the Grand Marquis and you'll be treated to huge, thick seats that are as comfortable as an old pair of shoes. All controls and instruments are arrayed in a logical, intuitive, and spacious manner; nothing seems out of place. The interior is spacious with plenty of room for long legs, broad shoulders and gangly arms. There's also enough latitude in seat adjustment to accommodate petite family members.

Rear seat roominess and comfort are at the top of the class. Trunk capacity is rated at almost 21 cubic feet. Fit and finish inside the car are superb, and the materials chosen are excellent.

There are a lot of detail changes to the interior for 1999. New carpeting and new floor mats are standard on both models. All models have new front door trim panel armrests.