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2003 Mercury Mountaineer Full Review
Date Published: 2/20/08
Also in the 2003 Mercury Mountaineer Review:
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2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Mercury Mountaineer Full Review
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8.
2003 Mercury Mountaineer Review
Standard power-adjustable pedals and an available DVD entertainment system highlight 2003 additions to Mercury's version of the Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator. Mountaineer comes in Convenience, Luxury, and Premier trim, all with three rows of seats for 7-passenger capacity; the 3rd row can be deleted for credit. All offer a V6 or V8 engine and rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive without low-range gearing. A 5-speed automatic transmission, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, and tilt steering wheel are standard. Torso side airbags are not offered, but head-protecting curtain side airbags are standard on the Premier and optional on other models. The curtain bags cover the 1st and 2nd seating rows and are programmed to deploy in a rollover. Explorer offers an antiskid system that is unavailable in Mountaineer. The previously optional power pedals are joined as new standard features by heated power mirrors and a compass/thermometer. Newly optional for Luxury and Premier is a tire-pressure monitor and a rear-seat entertainment system with DVD player, roof-mounted screen, wireless headphones, and remote control. A rear-obstacle-warning system is standard on Premier models and optional on other Mountaineers.
Competition
New to the class this year, Honda Pilot has taken the lead as a Best Buy. It offers ample cargo space, seating for eight passengers, all-wheel drive with a locking rear differential for added traction, and above-average refinement. Toyota Highlander is our other Best Buy, chosen for its on-road competence, convenience, and attractive pricing and design.
Our Recommended choices feature more-traditional SUVs: Ford Explorer, GMC Envoy, and Toyota 4Runner. For 2003, all now offer optional V8 engines and--with the exception of 4Runner--three rows of seats.
Our Recommended choices feature more-traditional SUVs: Ford Explorer, GMC Envoy, and Toyota 4Runner. For 2003, all now offer optional V8 engines and--with the exception of 4Runner--three rows of seats.
News
Mountaineer remains one of slower-selling midsize SUVs, partly because of its obvious ties to the Ford Explorer and partly because it's a Mercury, a name many consumers don't relate to anymore or just don't recognize. Even so, year-to-year sales improved 5.6 percent in 2002, though the increase amounted to fewer than 2600 units.
Still, Mercury must be hoping the uptrend continues, as Mountaineer won't change much until model-year 2006, when Motown moles expect a restyling. (Explorer also gets one that season.) One possible problem is Lincoln's related Aviator, which could steal some Mountaineer sales in '03 despite its higher pricing. Mountaineer sales could also suffer in model-year '05, which brings a premium Mercury version of the compact Ford Escape that's bound to cost less than the midsizer.
Still, Mercury must be hoping the uptrend continues, as Mountaineer won't change much until model-year 2006, when Motown moles expect a restyling. (Explorer also gets one that season.) One possible problem is Lincoln's related Aviator, which could steal some Mountaineer sales in '03 despite its higher pricing. Mountaineer sales could also suffer in model-year '05, which brings a premium Mercury version of the compact Ford Escape that's bound to cost less than the midsizer.
2003 Mercury Mountaineer Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Passenger and cargo room | Fuel economy |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
Overhead-cam V8 feels smooth but not much more powerful than V6. Both provide modest acceleration from a stop, but build speed quickly. AWD system's 200-lb weight penalty hurts acceleration somewhat.
| Convenience V6 AWD | Luxury V8 AWD | Class Average |
| 4 | 5 | 4.9 |
Overhead-cam V8 feels smooth but not much more powerful than V6. Both provide modest acceleration from a stop, but build speed quickly. AWD system's 200-lb weight penalty hurts acceleration somewhat.
Fuel Economy
Should mirror test Explorers. Extended-use 4WD V8 XLT Explorer averaged 15.1 mpg in mostly highway driving during its 8885-mi. test. A similar example averaged 14.1 with more city driving. Test 4WD V6 Explorer averaged 17.1 mpg. Ford/Mercury recommends regular-grade fuel for both engines.
| Convenience V6 AWD | Luxury V8 AWD | Class Average |
| 4 | 3 | 3.7 |
Should mirror test Explorers. Extended-use 4WD V8 XLT Explorer averaged 15.1 mpg in mostly highway driving during its 8885-mi. test. A similar example averaged 14.1 with more city driving. Test 4WD V6 Explorer averaged 17.1 mpg. Ford/Mercury recommends regular-grade fuel for both engines.
Ride Quality
Body-on-frame chassis feels very solid. Independent rear suspension provides a reasonably soft ride. Mountaineer rides much like Acura MDX: slightly tauter than Explorer, but not as smooth as Lexus RX 300.
| Convenience V6 AWD | Luxury V8 AWD | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 4.4 |
Body-on-frame chassis feels very solid. Independent rear suspension provides a reasonably soft ride. Mountaineer rides much like Acura MDX: slightly tauter than Explorer, but not as smooth as Lexus RX 300.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Typical truck-type midsize SUV: noticeable body lean in turns and lazy reaction to steering inputs compared to a car. Mountaineer steering, handling are sharper than Explorer's thanks to different shock absorbers and tires.
| Convenience V6 AWD | Luxury V8 AWD | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 3.5 |
Typical truck-type midsize SUV: noticeable body lean in turns and lazy reaction to steering inputs compared to a car. Mountaineer steering, handling are sharper than Explorer's thanks to different shock absorbers and tires.
Quietness
Wind and road noise unobjectionable and low for an SUV. Engines intrude only under hard throttle, though V8 quieter than V6.
| Convenience V6 AWD | Luxury V8 AWD | Class Average |
| 4 | 5 | 4.1 |
Wind and road noise unobjectionable and low for an SUV. Engines intrude only under hard throttle, though V8 quieter than V6.
Controls
Gauges clear, radio/climate controls mounted high within fairly easy reach. Materials of generally good quality. Mountaineer has dressier trim than Explorer.
| Convenience V6 AWD | Luxury V8 AWD | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 6.1 |
Gauges clear, radio/climate controls mounted high within fairly easy reach. Materials of generally good quality. Mountaineer has dressier trim than Explorer.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Plenty of room, comfortable seats. Available memory seat, tilt wheel, and adjustable pedals custom-tailor driving position to suit many physiques. Oddly, running boards hinder egress.
| Convenience V6 AWD | Luxury V8 AWD | Class Average |
| 7 | 8 | 6.3 |
Plenty of room, comfortable seats. Available memory seat, tilt wheel, and adjustable pedals custom-tailor driving position to suit many physiques. Oddly, running boards hinder egress.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Second row has lots of head room, more leg clearance than most in class, and three can squeeze across. Third row is fit for two children; 2nd-row seats tilt forward to ease access.
| Convenience V6 AWD | Luxury V8 AWD | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 5.4 |
Second row has lots of head room, more leg clearance than most in class, and three can squeeze across. Third row is fit for two children; 2nd-row seats tilt forward to ease access.
Cargo Room
Large hatch glass opens separately and dips low into tailgate for easier loading. Cargo room tight behind 3rd-row seat, which folds into floor (though not quite flat) for more space.
| Convenience V6 AWD | Luxury V8 AWD | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 7.8 |
Large hatch glass opens separately and dips low into tailgate for easier loading. Cargo room tight behind 3rd-row seat, which folds into floor (though not quite flat) for more space.
Value within Class
Although it isn't available with Explorer's desirable antiskid system, Mountaineer does offer more-expressive styling and more standard features than its Ford cousin, while slotting in below Lincoln's new Aviator in price and power. Basically, it fills a niche for domestic-SUV buyers who want to combine Mercury's take on individualistic design with such useful features as 7-passenger seating, adjustable pedals, curtain airbags, and reverse sensing.
| Convenience V6 AWD | Luxury V8 AWD | Class Average |
| 6 | 5 | 5 |
Although it isn't available with Explorer's desirable antiskid system, Mountaineer does offer more-expressive styling and more standard features than its Ford cousin, while slotting in below Lincoln's new Aviator in price and power. Basically, it fills a niche for domestic-SUV buyers who want to combine Mercury's take on individualistic design with such useful features as 7-passenger seating, adjustable pedals, curtain airbags, and reverse sensing.
Total Score
| Convenience V6 AWD | Luxury V8 AWD | Class Average |
| 56 | 57 | 51.2 |
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
| Low Score | 35 | |
| Average Score | 51 | |
| High Score | 66 |
2003 Mercury Mountaineer Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 05/12/2003
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| Convenience V6 4-door wagon, 2WD | $29,350 | $26,687 | $645 |
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| Convenience V8 4-door wagon, 2WD | $30,180 | $27,425 | $645 |
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| Convenience V6 4-door wagon, AWD | $31,380 | $28,493 | $645 |
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| Convenience V8 4-door wagon, AWD | $32,210 | $29,232 | $645 |
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| Luxury V6 4-door wagon, 2WD | $32,340 | $29,347 | $645 |
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| Luxury V8 4-door wagon, 2WD | $33,170 | $30,086 | $645 |
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| Luxury V6 4-door wagon, AWD | $34,370 | $31,154 | $645 |
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| Luxury V8 4-door wagon, AWD | $35,200 | $31,893 | $645 |
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| Premier V6 4-door wagon, 2WD | $34,105 | $30,918 | $645 |
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| Premier V8 4-door wagon, 2WD | $34,935 | $31,657 | $645 |
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| Premier V6 4-door wagon, AWD | $36,135 | $32,725 | $645 |
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| Premier V8 4-door wagon, AWD | $36,965 | $33,464 | $645 |
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
Convenience
Powertrain
4.0-liter V6 engine or 4.6-liter V8 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission.
Safety
Dual front airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Front air conditioning, power steering, tilt leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats w/manual lumbar adjustment, 6-way power driver seat, power-adjustable pedals, center console, cupholders, 2nd-row split bench seat, 3rd-row stowable bench seat, overhead console, heated power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, keypad entry, AM/FM/cassette/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, compass, outside-temperature indicator, variable-intermittent wipers, rear defogger, intermittent rear wiper/washer, illuminated visor mirrors, map lights, cargo-management system, automatic headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, rear privacy glass, rear liftgate, roof rails, fog lights.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Trailer hitch, full-size spare tire, 245/70R16 tires, alloy wheels, AWD adds: all-wheel drive.
Luxury adds to Convenience:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather upholstery, heated front seats, memory system (driver seat, pedals), dual-zone automatic climate controls, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, steering-wheel radio and climate controls, automatic day/night rearview mirror, universal garage-door opener.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Running boards.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
245/65R17 all-terrain tires, AWD adds: all-wheel drive.
Premier adds to Luxury:
Safety
Front and 2nd-row curtain side airbags, rear-obstacle-detection system.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Power sunroof.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
AWD adds: all-wheel drive.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
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Security Group
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Convenience, Luxury
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$795
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$676
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Front and 2nd-row curtain side airbags, rear-obstacle-detection system.
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Trailer Towing Pkg.
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Convenience, Luxury, Premier
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$400
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$340
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Limited-slip differential, Class III/IV trailer hitch, 7-pin trailer connector.
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Safety |
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Tire-pressure monitor
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Luxury, Premier
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$195
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$166
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
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Rear-seat entertainment system
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Luxury, Premier
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$1,250
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$1,063
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DVD player, overhead screen, wireless headphones, remote control. Luxury requires rear air conditioning.
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Rear air conditioning
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Convenience, Luxury, Premier
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$650
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$553
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Includes rear controls, rear heater. Rear controls deleted w/power sunroof or rear-seat entertainment system.
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Power sunroof
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Convenience, Luxury
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$850
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$723
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Leather upholstery
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Convenience
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$695
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$591
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3rd-row seat delete
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(credit)
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$-375
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$-319
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Adds stowable 2nd-row split bench seat.
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
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Running boards
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Convenience
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$450
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$383
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Roof rack
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Convenience, Luxury, Premier
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$60
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$51
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Special paint
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Premier
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$275
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$234
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2003 Mercury Mountaineer Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Mercury Mountaineer 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 113.8 |
| Overall Length, in. | 189.5 |
| Overall Width, in. | 72.1 |
| Overall Height, in. | 71.4 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 4490 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 81.3 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | 1390 |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 22.5 |
| Seating Capacity | 7 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.9 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.4 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 38.9 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 35.9 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| sohc V6 | sohc V8 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 4.0 /245 | 4.6 /281 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 210 @ 5100 | 239 @ 4750 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 254 @ 3700 | 282 @ 4000 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard |
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EPA City / highway mpg
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| 5-speed automatic | 15/20 | 14/19 |
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 |
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
| Rollover Resistance | 3 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 5 |
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
Also in the 2003 Mercury Mountaineer Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Mercury Mountaineer Full Review
7.
8.
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