Ford Crown Victoria

The Crown Victoria/Mercury Grand Marquis twins are both dated, with stiff rides and noisy engines. Handling is safe enough, but feels ungainly. The optional traction control helps in slippery conditions. The soft front bench seat lacks support, and the rear seat isn't as roomy as you'd expect, though the trunk is suitably cavernous. Because there are better choices among large sedans, including the roomier Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable, we no longer recommend the Crown Victoria and Grand Marquis. For 2008 the Crown Victoria will only be sold to fleets. IIHS side-crash tests were poor without the optional side air bags, and marginal with them.