2002-2005 Mercury Mountaineer: Road Test

Mercury's overhead-cam V8 feels smooth, but not much more powerful than the V6. Both provide modest acceleration from a stop, but build speed quickly. Ford claimed V6 models could accelerate to 60 mph in 10.2 seconds. In the 40-55 mph range, there's no great difference in throttle response between the two engines. The AWD system's 200-pound weight penalty hurts acceleration somewhat. An extended-use 4WD V8 Explorer XLT averaged 15.1 mpg in mostly highway driving. Similar examples averaged 13.3 to 14.1 mpg with more city driving, while a 4WD V6 Explorer averaged 17.1 mpg. Mountaineers should echo those figures. Both engines run on regular-grade fuel. With its independent rear suspension, the Mountaineer provides a reasonably soft ride. Although it's somewhat trucky, the body-on-frame chassis feels quite solid. Relatively compliant, the suspension is devoid of sloppy motions. A Mountaineer is slightly tougher than an Explorer, but not as smooth as a Lexus RX. The Mountaineer's stiffer shocks make it more stable than an Explorer through dips and swells, but slightly less absorbent over rough pavement. Steering/handling is typical truck-type midsize SUV. That means noticeable body lean in turns, and somewhat lazy reactions to steering inputs, compared to a car. Still, it's capable and confident overall, with best-in-class steering feel and good low-speed maneuverability. Mountaineer steering/handling is sharper than an Explorer's, thanks to different shock absorbers and tires. Stopping power is strong, though brake-pedal effort is slightly high. Wind and road noises are unobjectionable, and low for an SUV. Engines intrude only under hard throttle, though the V8 is quieter than the V6. Gauges are bold and clear. Most controls are illuminated and within easy reach. Materials are generally good quality, and the Mountaineer has dressier trim than an Explorer. Expect plenty of room up front on comfortable seats. The available memory seat, tilt/telescopic steering wheel, and adjustable pedals can custom-tailor the driving position to suit many physiques. Outward visibility is good. Curiously, running boards hinder egress; they're too narrow to provide a solid step. Second-row occupants get generous headroom, plus more leg clearance than most in its class. Three can squeeze across, but the seat is divided into three segments and each can feel confining. The third row is fit for two children; it's low to the floor and pancake-flat, though head room is expansive and leg space surprisingly good. Second-row seats tilt forward to ease access. Large hatch glass opens separately and dips low into the tailgate, for easier loading. But the glass releases only via the keyfob. Cargo room is tight behind the third-row seat, which folds into the floor (though not quite flat) for additional space. The fold-down process can be awkward, and the tailgate isn't so easy to open or close.

Value for the Money
A Mountaineer deserves a spot on your midsize SUV shopping list, due to its beyond-competent overall performance and impressive array of available features. More expressive in styling than an Explorer, with sharper handling, it's not quite as good a value, though price differences tend to get closer as the vehicles age.