2007 Mercury Montego Review
The Montego is a full-size car first introduced in 2005 as a replacement for the Sable. Sharing a platform with the Ford Five Hundred, it also has command seating, which seats the driver higher than in most sedans. With available AWD, it’s a sensible alternative for SUV drivers. Ironically, the Montego will be replaced by the 2008 Mercury Sable due to poor sales.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Mercury Montego is a roomy, safe, and relatively efficient alternative to an SUV. With its available AWD and high seating, any former SUV driver will feel right at home. While it may not provide the absolute best value in its class, its low sales figures should give you plenty of wiggle room in negotiations.
What’s New For 2007:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the Montego 4.5 stars in overall mechanical quality. Problems with the Montego include skipping CD players, brake noise, cold starting problems, suspension noise, and buzzing speakers. It was recalled once in 2005 for breaking fuel tank straps. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Montego aced all government crash tests. In IIHS testing, it earned a “Good” rating in all tests. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags, and traction control come standard. Adjustable pedals are standard on all but the Luxury trim. Parking sensors are optional across the line.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Perfect crash test scores
+ Large trunk
+ Suitable alternative for an SUV driver
Cons
– Stability control unavailable
– Weak engine
– Modest price/feature ratio
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Honda Accord SE has a CD changer and 40 more horsepower, but lacks the Montego’s six-speed and increased trunk space. The Hyundai Sonata LTD has standard leather seats and 30 more horsepower, but also lacks a six-speed and has a smaller trunk. The Saturn Aura XR has a larger engine, a CD changer, and 50 more horsepower, but lacks in trunk space.
What Others Are Saying:
“You’d better take note of where you parked at the mall, because you’ll have trouble picking your Montego out of a crowd. It’s features are very familiar – from other cars. It has the VW Passat’s arched roofline, the Nissan Maxima’s trunk, the Chrysler 300’s wheels – nearly every exterior feature reminds me of another car. Rather than being distinctive in combination, the result is bland and unmemorable. Nobody’s going to give you a thumbs up at Cruise Night in the Montego.” – About.com
“In short, the Montego is a fine car for buyers seeking an unassuming full-size sedan that’s a tiny bit more exclusive and sparkly than a Ford Five Hundred, for around $825 more (base to base). Too bad this niche exists only in the world of product planners and flak-talking spin-doctors. Everyone else flocks to well-established import sedans or “real” American cars like the Grand Marquis. In fact, Mercury’s royal sweetheart sports a competitive sticker price and frequently triples the Montego’s monthly sales numbers. Oops.” – The Truth About Cars
“While these twins are far from sports sedans, they offer exceptionally large interiors, chair-high seating, and very roomy trunks -s standard, but for about $20 for less than $24,000. Front-wheel drive i00, you can get four-wheel drive, a rare option in this class.” – Car and Driver
Read more about the 2007 Mercury Montego at the Mercury manufacturer web site.
