2000 Mercury Mountaineer Full Review - Consumer Guide Automotive

Mercury's upscale version of the 4-door Ford Explorer is headed for a January 2001 unveiling as a redesigned 2002 model. Mountaineer meanwhile offers rear- and 4-wheel drive with a choice of an overhead-cam V6 with a 5-speed automatic transmission or a V8 with 4-speed automatic. V6 models with 4WD get Ford's Control Trac system, which need not be disengaged on dry pavement. V8 versions have permanently engaged 4WD. Options include front side airbags, rear load-leveling suspension, and Ford Motor Company's Reverse Sensing System, which signals an audible warning when the vehicle backs up close to an object.

Added for 2000 were two new luxury options groups, called Monterey and, for V8 models only, Premiere. Both include woodgrain interior trim and color-keyed bodyside moldings, running boards, and bumpers, among other amenities. The Premiere adds a color-keyed grille, special spruce green paint, and exclusive 16-inch tires on 5-spoke alloy wheels in place of standard 15-inch wheels. Included with the optional universal garage door opener is an integrated digital memo recorder. Mountaineer's performance and accommodations mirror those of comparably equipped Explorers.

Competition

This is by far the hottest market segment right now. Crowded with more than 20 vehicles, midsize SUVs vary in size and type but nearly all seat five adults and offer V6 or V8 engines. Our Best Buys include the Ford Explorer, the Lexus RX 300, and Mercedes-Benz M-Class. Explorer and M-Class are more traditional SUVs with full off-road capability and V6 and V8 engines. RX 300 is a car-based SUV that lacks a low range in 4WD mode, but is the most carlike to drive.

Our Recommended choices are all traditional SUVs: the Dodge Durango, which offers optional third-row seating; the slightly more expensive Explorer clone Mercury Mountaineer; the utilitarian Nissan Xterra; and the refined but expensive Toyota 4Runner.

If you are on a Budget take a look at the old standby Jeep Cherokee. It is cruder than the rest but offers go-anywhere ability, utility, and a low price.

News

If you've seen the Mountaineer concept vehicle at a major 2000 auto show near you, you've basically seen the redesigned production model. But though Mercury's SUV will soon stand more clearly apart from its Ford parent, the new Mountaineer will also likely be delayed from its planned launch this fall as a 2001 model to the first quarter of '01, when it will go on sale as an '02. A Ford spokesman recently cited "normal quality and fit and finish issues" as the reason for the schedule change.

That aside, the new Mountaineer rides the same slightly enlarged platform as the next Explorer, with width inceasing 2 inches on a more sharply lined body announced by a toothy satin-finish grille and trapezoidal headlamps. Lower-body side cladding remains standard, but should be finished for a more expensive look. Judging by the concept, 17-inch wheels and tires will be a first-time Mountaineer option. Underneath, the rear suspension abandons a solid axle for a fully independent setup that promises a smoother on-road ride and may also enhance off-road capability. We expect current powertrains to carry over with detail refinements, and interiors should be spruced-up with a redesigned dash and more upscale materials.

2000 Mercury Mountaineer Road Test

Pros	Cons

Acceleration	Ride

Cargo room	Fuel economy

Visibility

Build quality

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

4WD, V6	AWD, V8	Class Average
5	5	4.4

The V6 has sufficient muscle for most needs, while the V8 is predictably stronger.

Fuel Economy

4WD, V6	AWD, V8	Class Average
4	2	3.6

The V6 will average 15-17 mpg in typical daily driving. We averaged 16.1 mpg over nearly 700 miles, over half of which were on the highway, where we barely reached 18. Hard city driving can drop mileage as low as 10 mpg, especially on V8 models.

Ride Quality

4WD, V6	AWD, V8	Class Average
3	3	3.7

Ride is sometimes choppy, but nonetheless, composed and comfortable on most surfaces.

Steering/Handling/Braking

4WD, V6	AWD, V8	Class Average
3	3	3.6

Mercury markets Mountaineer as more all-weather luxury wagon than off-road rock-hopper. Nevertheless, either 4WD system can be used on slippery or dry pavement without driver involvement, giving the Mercury more tractive versatility than most rivals.

Quietness

4WD, V6	AWD, V8	Class Average
3	3	3.6

Noise levels are can get annoying at highway speeds where there's plenty of wind rush and tire thrum.

Controls

4WD, V6	AWD, V8	Class Average
7	7	6

Simple and legible gauges are matched with large climate and audio controls.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

4WD, V6	AWD, V8	Class Average
6	6	5.9

The 4WD models don't ride as high as some rivals, so entry and exit are not a big chore, yet drivers enjoy the "command seating" that attracts so many people to SUVs. Overall visibility is fine and controls are handy.

Room/Comfort (rear)

4WD, V6	AWD, V8	Class Average
4	4	4.3

he rear seat isn't a selling point, however, thanks to stiff padding and a backrest that only reaches the shoulder blades of most adults.

Cargo Room

4WD, V6	AWD, V8	Class Average
8	8	7.5

Cargo space is excallent for this class and the rear seats fold flat. Interior storage compartments abound.

Value within Class

4WD, V6	AWD, V8	Class Average
5	4	3.8

Despite its upscale image and features, Mountaineer prices in the heart of the SUV market, competing with the likes of Oldsmobile's Bravada and the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Explorer is our Best Buy among SUVs, and the similar Mountaineer rides its coat tails.

Total Score

4WD, V6	AWD, V8	Class Average
48	45	46.4

Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		37
Average Score		46
High Score		61

2000 Mercury Mountaineer Prices & Equipment

Model Prices

Prices Updated: 06/05/2000

Trim Name	Retail Price	Dealer Invoice	Destination Charge

4-door wagon, 2WD	$27,560	$24,874	$585

4-door wagon, 4WD	$29,560	$26,634	$585

4-door wagon, AWD	$30,025	$27,043	$585

Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker. Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options. The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.

NA = price note available, NC = no charge.

Rebates and Incentives

There are no rebates or incentives at this time.

Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.

Standard Equipment

2WD

Powertrain

4.0-liter V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission.

Safety

Dual front airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Air conditioning, power steering, tilt leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, cloth front captain chairs, split folding rear seat, floor console, cupholders, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, intermittent rear wiper/washer, rear defogger, AM/FM/cassette, digital clock, tachometer, illuminated visor mirrors, variable intermittent wipers, cargo cover, map lights, floormats.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Theft-deterrent system, running boards, roof rack, two-tone paint, rear privacy glass, fog lights.

Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires

Full-size spare tire, 225/70R15 tires, alloy wheels.

4WD adds to 2WD:

Powertrain

Control Trac full-time 4-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case.

AWD adds to 4WD

Powertrain

5.0-liter V8 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, permanent 4-wheel drive, limited-slip differential.

Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires

Trailer Tow Pkg. (heavy-duty flasher, trailering harness), 235/75R15 all-terrain white-letter tires.

Optional Equipment

Major Packages	Retail Price	Invoice Price
Convenience Group
2WD, 4WD, AWD	$1,195	$1,016
Cloth sport bucket seats, 6-way power driver seat, AM/FM/cassette/CD player, rear radio controls, remote keyless entry, key pad entry, autolock/relock system, overhead console w/compass and outside temperature indicator, automatic day/night rearview mirror, high series floor console, rear vent w/fan, automatic headlights, puddle lights.

Luxury Group
2WD, 4WD, AWD	$1,745	$1,483
Leather upholstery, 6-way power front sport bucket seats, automatic climate control, message center (trip computer, oil-life monitor, additional warning lights), Mach AM/FM/cassette/CD player, steering wheel radio/climate controls, unique two-tone paint. Requires Convenience Group.

Monterey Feature Group
2WD, 4WD, AWD	$495	$421
Woodgrain interior trim, special carpeting, unique floormats, two-tone paint, color-keyed bodyside moldings, running boards and bumpers. Requires Convenience Group and Luxury Group.

Premiere Feature Group
2WD, AWD	$595	$506
Woodgrain interior trim, unique floormats, Spruce Green metallic paint, color-keyed grille, bodyside moldings, bumpers and running boards, 255/70R16 white letter tires, special alloy wheels. Requires Convenience Group, Luxury Group. 2WD requires 5.0-liter engine.

Powertrain
5.0-liter V8 engine
2WD	$465	$395
Includes 4-speed automatic transmission, limited-slip differential, 3.73 axle ratio, 235/75R15 all-terrain tires. NA 4WD.

Limited-slip differential
2WD, 4WD	$355	$302
Includes Trailer Tow Pkg. (heavy-duty flasher, trailering harness) and 3.73 axle ratio.

Safety
Front side-impact airbags
2WD, 4WD, AWD	$395	$336
Requires Convenience Group.

Reverse Sensing System
2WD, 4WD, AWD	$255	$217
Requires Convenience Group.

Comfort and Convenience Features
Automatic climate control
2WD, 4WD, AWD	$590	$502
Includes steering wheel climate/radio controls, message center (trip computer, oil-life monitor, additional warning lights). Requires Convenience Group and Mach AM/FM/cassette/CD player.

Leather sport bucket seats
2WD, 4WD, AWD	$950	$808
Includes 6-way power front seats. Requires Convenience Group.

Universal garage door opener
2WD, 4WD, AWD	$215	$182
Includes Travelnote digital memo recorder.

Power sunroof
2WD, 4WD, AWD	$800	$680
Requires Convenience Group.

6-disc CD changer
2WD, 4WD, AWD	$395	$336
Requires Convenience Group.

Mach AM/FM/cassette/CD player
2WD, 4WD, AWD	$440	$374
Requires Convenience Group.

Appearance and Miscellaneous
Engine block heater
2WD, 4WD, AWD	$35	$30


Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Skid plates
4WD, AWD	$105	$89


Rear load-leveling suspension
4WD, AWD	$395	$336
Requires Convenience Group, leather sport bucket seats.

Chrome alloy wheels
2WD, 4WD, AWD	$495	$421


235/75R15 all-terrain white-letter tires
2WD, 4WD	$230	$196

2000 Mercury Mountaineer Specs & Safety

Vehicle Dimensions

Specification	Mercury Mountaineer 4-door wagon

Wheelbase, in.	111.6

Overall Length, in.	190.7

Overall Width, in.	70.2

Overall Height, in.	70.5

Curb Weight, lbs.	4250

Cargo Volume, cu. ft.	79.1

Standard Payload, lbs.	--

Fuel Capacity, gals.	21.0

Seating Capacity	5

Front Head Room, in.	39.9

Max. Front Leg Room, in.	42.4

Rear Head Room, in.	39.3

Max. Rear Leg Room, in.	35.8

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Engines

	sohc V6	ohv V8

Size, liters/cu. in.	4.0 /245	5.0 /302

Horsepower @ rpm.	210 @ 5250	215 @ 4200

Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm.	240 @ 3250	288 @ 3300

Availability	Standard	Optional

EPA City / highway mpg

4-speed automatic	--/--	14/19

5-speed automatic	15/20	--/--

Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft; dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders; V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Safety Features

Antilock Brakes

Traction Control

Antiskid System

Front Side Airbags

Curtain Side Airbags

Rear Side Airbags

NHTSA Crash-Test Results

Test	Mercury Mountaineer 4-door wagon

Collision	3

Collision (HLDI)	84

Front Impact, Driver	4

Front Impact, Passenger	4

Injury	5

Injury (HLDI)	62

Side Impact, Driver	5

Side Impact, Rear Passenger	5

Theft	3

Theft (HLDI)	109

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.

Manufacturer's Warranty

Class	Years/Miles	Comments

Powertrain	None/--	--

Bumper-to-bumper	3/36,000	--

Corrosion	5/unlimited	--

Free roadside assistance	3/36,000	--

Free scheduled maintenance	None/--	--

Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive. There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for 2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.

Built in: USA

Drivewheels: all-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive

< 2000 Mercury Mountaineer Photos

Also in the 2000 Mercury Mountaineer Review:

Mercury Mountaineer

Mercury Mountaineer Road Test

Mercury Mountaineer Prices & Equipment

Mercury Mountaineer Specs & Safety

Mercury Mountaineer Photos

Mercury Mountaineer Full Review

All Mercury Mountaineers

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