LS adds luxury equipment, including a premium stereo, premium cloth upholstery, power lumbar support, an illuminated keyless entry system, chrome wheel covers, a light group, and pinstripes. GS and LS models are sold with a slightly higher level of standard equipment, and at slightly higher prices, in California and Hawaii than in the other 48 states.

Mercury has re-tuned the Grand Marquis engine for 2001. It now produces more peak horsepower, and delivers its peak torque at higher rpm. In standard, single-exhaust form, that translates to 220 horsepower at 4750 rpm, and 265 pound-feet of torque at 4000 rpm. With dual exhausts, which are optional on GS and standard on LS, those numbers rise to 235 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque.

Option packages have been streamlined, which simplifies life for everyone. Our test car came with the $2,520 Ultimate Package, which adds anti-lock brakes, traction control, electronic instrumentation, a premium sound system, and the Premium Package. The Premium Package is available separately for $1,120 and includes alloy wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, electronic climate control, a power passenger seat, an auto-dimming mirror with compass, and power-adjustable pedals. The adjustable pedals are a new feature for 2001, and can also be ordered by themselves for $120. (They are standard on the LS in Hawaii and California.)

The anti-lock brake system is also available as a stand-alone option for $600. We highly recommend it as it allows the driver to maintain steering control during emergency braking maneuvers. You can also get ABS and traction control packaged together for $775. The traction control uses the anti-lock brake system to reduce wheel spin -- a big benefit when accelerating on slippery roads.