MSRP: $28,700 - $35,030
Invoice: $26,697 - $32,457
MPG: 14 City / 20 Hwy
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U.S.News Scores

Overall:7.8
Performance:7.5
Exterior:8.3
Interior:8.0
Safety:9.0
Reliability:10.0
Research we analyzed for this review

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Performance - What the Auto Press Says

The 2009 Mountaineer's performance doesn't stand out within its class. While some experts report crisp handling, others find it sluggish. However, the Mountaineer does receive kudos for a towing capacity that's well-matched with the more powerful V8 engine.

  • "A four-wheel independent suspension gives the Mountaineer a firmly buttoned-down ride and keeps the tires in contact with the road surface even over rough bumps." -- Edmunds

Acceleration and Power

The 2009 Mercury Mountaineer comes standard with a 4.0-liter V6 engine with 210 horsepower, but those who choose the Premier trim can also opt for a 4.6-liter V8 engine with 292 horsepower. According to the EPA, 2WD models achieve 14/20 mpg city/highway with the six-cylinder engine and 15/21 with the V8. 4WD models achieve 13/19 with the six-cylinder engine and 14/19 with the V8.

  • "Only V8 Mountaineers have been made available to test so far. They provide ample power, and their 6-speed automatic changes gears smoothly and delivers quick part-throttle downshifts for fine around-town response. Some testers say full-throttle downshifts take too long, however." -- Consumer Guide
  • "Either engine is powerful enough to keep up with traffic, though the V8 is more refined and offers more grunt off the line while providing about the same fuel economy. Competitors' V8s feel stronger still, though." -- Edmunds
  • "Forget about the 210-hp V6 unless you want to show up to Sunday service on Tuesday afternoon." -- Car and Driver
  • "This new [V8] engine nets 292 hp (a 22 percent improvement over last year's V8) and 300 pound-feet of torque to ensure strong acceleration on demand and robust towing capabilities." -- Forbes

Handling and Braking

The majority of reviewers find the 2009 Mercury Mountaineer's handling is excellent, although there are a few who find it sluggish.

  • "Among the best of traditional truck-type SUVs. Mountaineer is compliant, even with the Premier's 18-inch wheels, and devoid of sloppy motions. Some testers say Mountaineer suffers undue impact harshness and body oscillations over low-speed bumps." -- Consumer Guide
  • "Handling is pretty good for a traditional SUV, as the Mercury feels predictable and stable in corners and higher-speed turns. Many crossover midsize SUVs are better, though, offering a more carlike driving experience." -- Edmunds
  • "[T]he steering, the brakes, the throttle response, and downshifts from the six-speed automatic (V-6s get a five-speed autobox) all happen at their own pace; there's no sense in asking any of them to hurry, because the Mountaineer will just ignore you. This is a high-ridin', easy-livin' sort of SUV." -- Car and Driver
Review Last Updated: 7/1/09