What Is It?
2006 Mercury Mountaineer
What's Special About It?
This refreshed version of last year's model doesn't break any new ground, but the 2006 Mountaineer does incorporate several notable enhancements that should help distance the midsize sport-ute from its Ford Explorer cousin.
In addition to the standard 210-horsepower V6, the Mountaineer's optional V8 now boasts 292 hp and 300 pound-feet of torque. Not only does the new V8 offer more power, it also gets a six-speed transmission that makes better use of that power for better performance and fuel efficiency. Other mechanical enhancements include a revised suspension, bigger brakes, recalibrated steering and a stronger frame.
Climbing inside the Mountaineer is now easier thanks to power-deployable running boards, a first in the midsize SUV segment. Another segment first is the availability of power-folding third-row seats that leave a completely flat load floor. A freshened gauge cluster, console-mounted shifter and metallic-trimmed dashboard are the most notable cosmetic upgrades although the newly designed cylindrical door latches are another interesting design change.
What's Edmunds' Take?
With all the new upgrades, the Mountaineer is not only more distinct from its Explorer twin, it's also better prepared to replace Lincoln's slow-selling Aviator as Ford's most luxurious midsize SUV. — Ed Hellwig
2006 Mercury Mountaineer
What's Special About It?
This refreshed version of last year's model doesn't break any new ground, but the 2006 Mountaineer does incorporate several notable enhancements that should help distance the midsize sport-ute from its Ford Explorer cousin.
In addition to the standard 210-horsepower V6, the Mountaineer's optional V8 now boasts 292 hp and 300 pound-feet of torque. Not only does the new V8 offer more power, it also gets a six-speed transmission that makes better use of that power for better performance and fuel efficiency. Other mechanical enhancements include a revised suspension, bigger brakes, recalibrated steering and a stronger frame.
Climbing inside the Mountaineer is now easier thanks to power-deployable running boards, a first in the midsize SUV segment. Another segment first is the availability of power-folding third-row seats that leave a completely flat load floor. A freshened gauge cluster, console-mounted shifter and metallic-trimmed dashboard are the most notable cosmetic upgrades although the newly designed cylindrical door latches are another interesting design change.
What's Edmunds' Take?
With all the new upgrades, the Mountaineer is not only more distinct from its Explorer twin, it's also better prepared to replace Lincoln's slow-selling Aviator as Ford's most luxurious midsize SUV. — Ed Hellwig
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