I currently own a 1999 Mercury Grand Marquis. We bought it brand new, and it has always gotten GREAT gas mileage anywhere from 28-33 on the hwy (with cruise), and 20 around town. Looked at the Ford Flex 17/24mpg (NOT GOOD). Ford should really think about putting the 4.6L V8 - in the Flex. My Mercury has great gas mileage, a great passing gear when needed, and has better torque at 275ft-lbs.@ 3000rpm, than the Flex at 248ft-lbs.@4500rpm. If Ford would take a look at this, I truly think the 4.6L V8, would be a plus for this vehicle. A V8, is not a bad thing when it comes to gas mileage. And, I would seriously think about buying one.