The standard engine is a 2.0-liter double overhead-cam 16-valve inline four-cylinder rated 125 horsepower and 130 pound-feet of torque. Ford calls this engine the Zetec. The optional Duratec dohc V6 displaces 2.5 liters, and rates 170 horsepower and 165 pound-feet of torque. The V6 comes with a heavy-duty alternator, upgraded suspension and brushed exhaust tips. Technically, the base V6 lists as a separate model, priced at $17,200.

Either way, the price of admission includes air conditioning, 15-inch aluminum wheels, power windows, power door locks, a power height-adjustable driver's seat and AM/FM/CD stereo.

Cougar S ($22,050) is powered by a 196-horsepower, 168-pound-feet version of the Duratec V6; it rides on an even stiffer suspension, and adds traction control and four-wheel-disc brakes with ABS, plus a higher level of luxury and interior appointments. Externally, the Cougar S can be distinguished by its fog lights, 17-inch wheels, and free-standing decklid spoiler (re-styled for 2001). (However, the spoiler is available on the base car as a $235 option; so are 16-inch wheels, for $250.

In fact, Cougar buyers can use a variety of equipment packages and options groups upgrade a base V6 to something closer to S specification. Most notable among these is the $865 Sport Group, which adds four-wheel disc brakes, 16-inch wheels, P215/50R16 all-season tires, and a long list of interior luxuries.

In February 2001, Mercury added two new models, the 2001 Cougar Zn and Cougar C2. Both the Cougar Zn and C2 have a refreshed interior and sports styling. Cougar Zn will start at $20,595; the Cougar C2 starts at $19,715 (including $475 in destination and delivery charges). Both include the Sport and Convenience options and come equipped with cloth seats; leather seats are also available.