• Overall
• Performance
• Exterior
• Interior
• Safety
• Reliability
• Prices

Mercury Mountaineer - What the Auto Press Says

Based on the same platform as the Ford Explorer, the truck-based Mountaineer is a competent and comfortable SUV. But it has difficulty competing with its car-based crossover competitors and comes with lower-than-average fuel economy and a sluggish base engine.

Edmunds says the Mountaineer "compares favorably with other midsize SUVs of its dwindling breed. Mercury can claim more comfort in the first- and second-row seats than most others can, and it remains one of the few manufacturers to have achieved third-row seating fit for adult habitation. While the masses will be better served by lighter-duty, car-based SUVs, the Mercury Mountaineer still deserves consideration for sport-utility shoppers with more demanding needs."

For 2010, the Mountaineer is unchanged. The Mountaineer is available in three trims: the base model and two Premier trims, which feature V6 or V8 engines.

• "It suffers some ergonomic lapses, and interior materials are unimpressive. Mountaineer, however, is a competent SUV with a solid array of useful features. Its traditional truck-type chassis serves trailering needs without giving up much refinement to lighter-duty crossovers." -- Consumer Guide
• "That said, the Mountaineer has a bit of elegance, some neat tech toys, can seat seven in comfort and can tow more than 7,000 pounds when properly equipped." -- San Jose Mercury News
• "A classic body-on-frame SUV that offers a quiet and supple driving experience, the ability to tow large objects, and three rows of seats. Trucklike construction adds up to a hefty curb weight, a thirst for fuel, and a boring driving experience. A true SUV for those who still want one." -- Car and Driver
• "[T]his big Mercury has some desirable attributes, such as good on-road manners, lots of available luxury features and a smooth, comfortable ride. But compared to top seven-passenger crossovers like the Mazda CX-9, GMC Acadia and Toyota Highlander, the Mountaineer's only significant advantages are its higher towing capacity and potentially lower discounted price." -- Edmunds

Mountaineer Performance - NA

The 2010 Mountaineer performs well enough, but it's up against stiff competition - and its truck-based chassis makes it difficult for it to compete with its smoother-riding crossover competitors. "Though heavy by class standards, these cousins (Ford Explorer and Mercury Mountaineer) go down the road quietly and without much of a fuss," says Car and Driver. Some test drivers also have concerns about the Mountaineer's spongy brake pedal and sluggish base engine. continue

Mountaineer Exterior - NA

The 2010 Mountaineer's design, which is very similar to its Ford Explorer sibling, doesn't stand out. However, reviewers like the car's unique power-integrated running boards. Car and Driver describes it as "nice to look at in a boxy, 'Merican kind of way." continue

Mountaineer Interior - NA

The Mercury Mountaineer's cabin is comfortable and well-appointed, but it still doesn't hold up to competitors in quality. Though reviewers find the front row spacious, opinions are mixed on second- and third-row comfort. "You'll find some low-grade materials here and there, but overall, the cabin is attractive and solidly constructed," says Edmunds. continue

Mountaineer Safety - NA

The federal government gives the 2010 Mountaineer top five-star scores for all seating positions in both frontal and side crash tests. The insurance industry gave the 2009 model top scores in frontal crash tests, but less desirable scores in side impact tests. continue

Mountaineer Reliability - NA

Mercury offers a limited warranty that is good for the first three years or 36,000 miles. continue