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The minivan market represents more than 1 million units, and growth is expected in the $30,000-plus-luxury market. The new Monterey is aimed squarely at the luxury minivan buyer who is in his or her 30s to mid-40s. Nearly 45 percent of Monterey buyers are expected to be "empty-nesters."

The new Monterey will provide the functionality and space of a minivan without sacrificing personal comfort and luxury appointments. From a distinctive satin aluminum finish on the instrument panel and gauge cluster to fold-into-the-floor third-row seat and available heated and cooled front seats, the Monterey is designed to stand out from all other minivans.

Outside, Monterey is designed to be distinctive. This includes the signature Mercury "waterfall" grille, use of satin finishes on door handles and distinctive wheel designs.

Monterey will offer power-adjustable brake and accelerator pedals, adjustable anchor-point seatbelts and a tilt steering wheel -- allowing all drivers to be safe and comfortable behind the wheel. Dual power-sliding doors will allow convenient entry and exit from both sides of the vehicle. Thicker side and windshield glass will be used to reduce wind noise, adding to the vehicle's luxury feel.

Monterey will be the only minivan in the segment to offer forward and reverse object-sensing systems, rather than just rear sensing. The system uses sensors in the front and rear bumpers to detect objects in the front of and behind the vehicle and assist negotiation distances while parking.

Safety also will be a key priority for Monterey's customers, and the vehicle will offer extensive advanced features, including the Personal Safety System, side and side-curtain airbags, a low tire-pressure monitoring system and self-sealing tires.

(Oct. 7, 2002)