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 lacks agility but is sound and secure. 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. Towing capacity is generous. Overall, the Mountaineer is outdated. The Mountaineer is being phased out with the demise of the Mercury brand.