2000 Mercury Mountaineer: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

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.