Mercury, a brand long absent from the automotive scene since its discontinuation thirteen years ago, still holds a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts. Among its revered models is the Cougar, a classic muscle car that continues to fascinate petrolheads of all generations.
Debuting in the late ’60s as a reimagined Ford Mustang, the Cougar boasted a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration and offered potent V8 powerplants paired with both automatic and manual transmissions.
Throughout its eight generations, it evolved alongside automotive trends, transitioning to front-wheel drive in its final iteration, sharing a platform with the Ford Mondeo (Fusion) of its time. However, unlike its predecessors, it only offered V6 and straight-four engine options.
Although production ceased in 2002, discussions of a potential ninth generation stirred the automotive community before Mercury’s demise in 2011. Recently, a digital reimagining of the Cougar emerged, sparking controversy among enthusiasts. This hypothetical iteration, inspired by the Dodge Charger Daytona, diverged from its traditional roots, adopting modern elements from other automotive icons.
While Ford has no plans to revive the Mercury brand, the idea of a ninth-generation Cougar resonates with enthusiasts. Imagining a resurrection with a design nod to its origins and powered by a robust V8 engine akin to the latest Mustang, the concept tantalizes fans. Yet, the question remains: Would such a revival garner consumer interest in today’s market?