2008 Mercury Grand Marquis Review
The Grand Marquis is a near-luxury sedan that was first introduced in 1983. Although it’s had a number of incremental improvements, it’s only been redesigned four times, the last in 2003. The 2003 revision put the Marquis on a new platform with rack and pinion steering, changed the exterior fascias, and modified the interior door panels. Crash detectors and an electronic throttle were added for 2005, with another interior/exterior update for 2006.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Mercury Grand Marquis is one of the last true full-size American sedans. Everything about the Grand Marquis screams classic Detroit: big frame, V8 engine, spacious interior and rear-wheel drive. Unfortunately it’s a bit too classic, as it misses out on many modern innovations. But if you like big American cars, the Grand Marquis is a good deal, as there are usually very generous incentives available.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power information is not available. The Grand Marquis has had a fair number of recorded problems over the years. One issue with leaking heater cores took years to fix. Other past minor issues included hard starting, fluid leaks and vehicle noise. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Grand Marquis earned 5 stars in government crash tests. In IIHS tests, it earned a “Good” score in frontal tests, and “Marginal” for side and rear tests. Anti-lock brakes are standard. Traction control is standard on the LS. Side airbags and adjustable pedals are optional on the LS. Stability control and side-curtain airbags are not available on any trim.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Roomy
+ Smooth ride
+ Rear wheel drive
Cons
– Missing certain safety features
– Outdated
– Awkward handling
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Buick Lucerne CX costs over $1,000 more and only has a V6 with 30 less hp. It’s also a front-wheel drive, but it does include standard side airbags. The Chevrolet Impala 2LT costs around $500 less, and has slightly more hp in its V6 engine. It’s also a front-wheel drive, but it includes stability control. The Volkswagen Passat 2.0T costs about the same, but has a four-cylinder engine with 24 less hp. It also has less passenger room, but does include standard side airbags and stability control.
What Others Are Saying:
“Obviously the Grand Marquis is no match for a stick-shifted V6 Accord or Altima. But the Marquis ushers the family to grandma’s house in far greater comfort. And, lest we forget, the Marquis’ price lines up against baseline, four-cylinder versions of those wrong-wheel drive whips. According to the official Mercury website, the last of the Great V8 Interceptors has $5000 on the hood. And the deal grows sweeter down at the showroom. Hell, they’re giving them away!” – The Truth About Cars
“If you’re looking to continue the proud, patriotic tradition of rear-wheel-drive V-8 power in a big, roomy wrapper the Grand Marquis is the car for you. It trades off agile handling for roomy seating, trunk space to match, and a safe, if very uneventful, ride.” – Automobile Magazine
“It remains popular among full-size sedan buyers, it’s the only standard V-8-equipped model in the segment, it’s still rear-wheel drive, it has a very large trunk, and it can seat six people in true comfort-all giving legitimacy to Ford’s decision to continue producing the Grand Marquis.” – J.D. Power
Read more about the 2008 Mercury Grand Marquis at the Mercury manufacturer web site.
