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Mercury Cougar 8th Generation (FN platform)

1999–2002 · FN · hatchback

Eighth-generation Cougar — a sports compact hatchback that was originally designed as the third-generation Ford Probe before being rebadged to Mercury after the Probe was discontinued. New Edge styling, FN (CDW27) platform shared with the Ford Contour/Mondeo. 2.0L Zetec I4 base or 2.5L Duratec V6. 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. Killed after 2002.

Watch out: Duratec V6 cars suffer from cracked intake manifolds and PCV/oil-separator issues at high mileage. Zetec 4-cyl has documented head-gasket weeping. Orphaned-brand parts availability for body and trim is harder than the mechanicals (which cross-reference to the Contour/Mondeo). Rust around the rear hatch perimeter and rocker panels.