2008 Mercury Mountaineer Review

The Mountaineer is an upscale midsize SUV that debuted in 1997. Based on the Ford Explorer, the Mountaineer brings an additional level of comfort and style. It was completely redesigned in 2002, adding a standard third row seat. The third and current generation debuted in 2006. It was chosen as Consumers Digest’s “Best Buy” in 2006-07.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Mercury Mountaineer is an upper-class alternative to the Explorer. Unfortunately, it now has less standard features than before, putting it near the bottom of its class in terms of price to features. Still, if the Explorer just doesn’t offer the comforts you need, the Mountaineer might be worth a look.

What’s New For 2008:

A number of standard features have actually been dropped for 2008. Leather and dual-zone climate control have been dropped from the base model, while the Premier no longer has parking assist, heated seats or a power third-row. Options available later on include Mercury Sync and capless fueling.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the Mountaineer 4.5 stars for mechanical quality and 3 stars for design and performance. Problems with the last generation included electrical noise, oxygen sensor malfunctions, suspension issues, noisy timing chains and transmission issues. It was recalled ten times. Problems with the current generation include overheating brakes, coolant leaks, steering noise, failed starters, and transmission issues. It has been recalled once for ungreased wiper motors. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Mountaineer earned perfect government crash test scores. In IIHS tests, it earned “Good” for the front, “Acceptable” for the side, and “Poor” for the rear. Anti-lock brakes, side airbags for the front two rows, a rollover sensor and stability control come standard. Parking sensors are an available option on the Premier and adjustable pedals are available for the entire line.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Smooth ride
+ Roomy
+ Full array of safety features

Cons
– Less standard features than last year
– Unimpressive reliability history
– Mediocre value

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Dodge Nitro R/T has 50 more hp, but less carrying capacity. The Hyundai Veracruz has 50 more hp and a standard third row, but costs a few hundred more. The Mitsubishi Outlander costs several hundred less, has a standard CD changer, AWD and gets up to four more miles to the gallon.

What Others Are Saying:

“The midsize Mercury Mountaineer SUV is a slightly more-upscale alternative to the Ford Explorer.” – Forbes

“Forgive me if I don’t get the tingles at the mention of a Mercury Mountaineer. I know that it’s important for Lincoln Mercury dealers to have an SUV on their showroom floors. I just wish that there was more distinction in the vehicle, and more magic left in the Mercury name.” – About.com

“The 2007 Mercury Mountaineer offers a comfortable ride along with the towing capability of a truck-based SUV. The Mountaineer feels more sure-footed than the GMC Envoy. The accommodations are nice overall and the Mountaineer offers lots of utility. As an alternative to a car for hauling passengers, however, it’s neither as smooth nor as comfortable, and certainly not as efficient as the latest car-based crossover SUVs, such as the Ford Edge.” – The New York Times

Read more about the 2008 Mercury Mountaineer at the Mercury manufacturer web site.