Identifiable by its its waterfall grille, aluminum-finish trim, and funky taillights the Mountaineer is an Explorer with more overt styling. This mid-sized SUV is available in rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive. Engine choices include a 210hp V6 mated to a 5-speed automatic and a 292hp V8 with six-speed automatic. The six-speed automatic is somewhat uncommon in this segment. The Mountaineer offers some other standout features like integrated power-operated running boards, and power-operated fold-flat 3rd row seats. For those concerned with safety, Mountaineer offers a number of standard safety features. A standard roll-stability control system aims to keep the SUV body from tipping over in extreme maneuvers.

What Changed:

Moutaineer has received numerous improvements for the 2006 model year. Visually, the front and rear have been tweaked to match an evolving Mercury sense of style. Power-operated running boards hide in the rocker panels until needed. The interior has been updated with a new instrument panel, center stack, door panels and seats. Mechanical changes include a revised front and rear suspension. An all-new 4.6L V8 engine is coupled to a six-speed automatic replaces the V8 powertrain in last years model