New models in the 2006 line of Mercury, from the Lincoln-Mercury Division of Ford Motor Company, multiply with the addition of two new nameplates. Milan is a fresh mid-size sedan for Mercury with premium equipment and two powertrain choices, while Mariner the crossover sport-utility vehicle spins off a gas-electric version sporting the badge of Mariner Hybrid.

With a long and broad body-on-frame structure, V8 power and classic rear-wheel-drive (RWD) traction, Grand Marquis carries up to six adults and a load of luggage. This Mercury has no rivals in the large-car class, save for a twin, Ford's Crown Victoria.

The 2006 editions reflect revised prow styling with new grille, fascia and headlamps. Mercury splits Grand Marquis into two series of GS and LS, then adds packaged equipment in further segments, such as the Convenience array for GS or LS Premium and LS Ultimate. The LS Ultimate gets an air suspen-sion with rear stabilizer bar, premium audio gear, remote controls for audio and climate systems and a steering wheel in wood and leather. Beneath the extended hood, a single-cam 4.6-liter V8 achieves 224 hp in all issues except with the optional handling package on LS, where dual exhausts boost output to 239 hp.

Newest nameplate at Mercury is a four-door mid-size sedan that tucks in size beneath Montego. Crisp body styling for Milan incorporates Mercury design cues like a waterfall grille and satin aluminum finishes. In the five-place passenger compartment, Milan brings two trim packages with entry-issue Milan and upscale Premier. Both stock preferred equipment like air conditioning, driver-seat power controls, remote keyless entry and deluxe audio gear with CD/MP3 deck. Premier adds leather upholstery, a six-disc CD changer and anti-lock brake system (ABS).

Milan has two engine options -- a new aluminum 2.3-liter four-cylinder plant or optional dual-cam 3.0-liter V6. The four-pack produces 160 hp and links to a five-speed manual transmission or five-speed automatic. The 210-hp V6 uses a six-speed automatic only. For added safety, an optional package supplies side-impact air bags plus curtain-style air bags, a perimeter anti-theft system, ABS, power moonroof and premium Audiophile sound system.

The compact SUV from Mercury comes with premium equipment and optional V6 power plus front-wheel-drive (FWD) or automatic AWD traction. It's called a crossover wagon because Mariner rides on a car's platform and blends the manners of a sedan with the elevated stance of a SUV. Mariner looks rugged with a bold face featuring a vertical grille in satin aluminum and corner cluster headlamps set above integrated foglamps. The upscale cabin, with two rows of seats for five, features woodgrain trim with bright chrome and satin aluminum accents.

Mariner divides into three equipment grades - Convenience, Luxury and Premier, the latter with luxury touches and leather seats. A base 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine makes 153 hp. The 3.0-liter V6 climbs to 200 hp and goes to Luxury and Premier models. Mariner's new Moon and Tune package adds a power moonroof and premium audio equipment.