2005 Mercury Grand Marquis New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis?
The 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis sports new chromed 16-inch wheels; wheel covers on the GS or alloys on the LS. Two-tone paint is optional for all models, and you'll notice a mast antenna on the right rear fender this year. Inside, chrome trim brightens up the door release handles and some parts of the instrument panel, and a new steering wheel is installed. An automatic parking brake release is standard on all trim levels, and sensors for the front passenger airbags get more sophisticated.

Advantages of the 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis:

• Traditional rear-drive V8-powered drivetrain
• Roomy interior
• Huge trunk
• Luxury conveniences without the luxury price tag

Objections to the 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis:

• Rental car quality cabin materials
• Lacks space efficiency
• Old-tech design and engineering

Editor's Advice:
There are three solid reasons to consider 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis: 1.) The design has undergone a decade of brutal testing in police and taxi fleets, and today's product should prove hardy and reliable. 2.) Excellent crash test scores. 3.) Huge trunk for long road trips or toting golf clubs. Otherwise, the rapidly aging, rear-drive, V8-powered Mercury Grand Marquis is anachronistic and not terribly competitive with mainstream sedans such as the Chrysler 300, Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.