Mercury Mountaineer

The Mountaineer is a clone of the Ford Explorer. The standard V6 performs adequately but sounds coarse. The V8 is stronger and sounds better, but delivers just 14 mpg overall. The ride is stiff compared with its car-based competition. Handling is sound and secure but doesn't stand out in its class. The versatile interior has various folding seat arrangements and offers three-row seating. Unlike the Explorer, the Mountaineer uses a permanent all-wheel-drive system without a low range. Overall, the Mountaineer is outdated.