2006 Mercury Mountaineer

The 2006 Mercury Mountaineer is a study in refinement and innovation in the sport-utility segment, with improvements across the board including safety, performance and driving dynamics. For 2006, Mountaineer refines its breakthrough styling elements with its signature exterior design that led the way for a fully rejuvenated Mercury product lineup.

Its all-new interior features attention to detail, comfort and convenience. The upscale design begins in the front row with a new instrument panel and ends in the rear with an innovative available power-folding third-row seat that provides an absolutely flat load floor.

'The new 2006 Mercury Mountaineer has more than meets the eye,' says Darryl Hazel, president, Lincoln Mercury. 'In addition to its signature standout styling, it has a new powertrain and new, exclusive convenience and safety features.'

Mountaineer takes the lead in showcasing a myriad of new safety technologies, including a further enhancement of Ford's advanced passive restraints, the Personal Safety System™ and standard AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™. Mountaineer's innovation continues in customer-friendly feature enhancements, such as a Mercury-first DVD-based navigation system and power-deployable side running boards.

Customers have flocked to the mid-size sport-utility segment for the versatility only these vehicles can provide. In 1990, the sport-utility segment accounted for 900,000 units. In 2004, that number swelled to 4.75 million (about 28 percent of all new vehicles). The sport-utility segment continues to grow and fragment into new sub-segments such as car-based crossovers. Even so, the body-on-frame sport-utility vehicle continues to attract new buyers and loyal return customers because they offer attributes unlike any other vehicle, including available V-8 power and towing capability.

POWERED-UP POWERTRAIN: New three-valve 292 hp, 4.6-liter V-8 with class-leading six-speed automatic

The 2006 Mountaineer's new three-valve 4.6-liter V-8 engine provides more power and improved efficiency. That power is put to the road through a new six-speed transmission that uses power more efficiently and operates more smoothly. The ride and handling is further improved with a revised suspension and a suite of noise, vibration and harshness prevention and countermeasures.

Through continuous improvement and innovation, Mountaineer has prospered as one of Mercury's most successful products. Offering customers more of what they want is also a part of the equation. The 2006 Mountaineer is one of six new products Lincoln Mercury will introduce over a four-year period, helping the division grow from 300,000 units today to a goal of 500,000 annually by the end of the decade.

REFINED EXTERIOR DESIGN: An evolution of the Mercury design DNA

The 2006 Mercury Mountaineer was designed to follow in the very successful footsteps of its predecessor, which was introduced in 2001. That Mountaineer set the stage for Mercury's design direction and was created to appeal to customers seeking style that stands out in a crowd.

'Mountaineer buyers are loyal to the brand and the nameplate,' says Hazel. 'We expect this new model to be very appealing to return customers who love their current vehicle and want more. And the new look and features will appeal to new customers as well.'

The 2006 Mountaineer sports a refined front-end design that accentuates the signature waterfall grille and imbues it with an air of sophistication. The front fascia and rectangular foglamps begin a subtle evolution of Mercury's design direction. Directly below the grille, the center section of the bumper features a satin aluminum finish, a new design cue for Mercury products.

Re-engineered side mirrors have been tested in a wind tunnel and provide a significant reduction in wind noise, despite being larger for improved rearward visibility. The mirrors feature a chamfered lower inside edge, which serves a functional aero purpose and provides a distinctive shape in line with Mountaineer's sophisticated design.

In the back, clear taillamp lenses and a new liftgate update the rear view of Mountaineer. The rear bumper fascia is finished with a satin aluminum strip integrating the front and rear design. For those seeking even more distinction, 18-inch machined aluminum wheels are available as an option – a Mountaineer first.

INTEGRATED POWER RUNNING BOARDS: Deployable boards integrated into rocker panels

New power-deployable running boards bring this convenient luxury feature to the mid-size sport-utility segment – with a twist: when retracted, the running boards are fully integrated into the rocker panels, hidden out of sight for a clean, uncluttered look. Satin-aluminum-finished trim is used to accent the running boards.

ALL-NEW INTERIOR: World-class craftsmanship and best-ever flexibility

The 2006 Mercury Mountaineer received a complete interior makeover for enhanced looks and functionality. New seats, instrument panel and materials deliver comfort, best-in-class seating flexibility and the kind of sophisticated style that remains unique to Mountaineer. Fold-down second- and third-row seats have been engineered to give the flattest cargo load floor in the segment, while new standard cloth and optional leather choices ensure that all Mountaineer interiors are both practical and stylish.

The IP and center stack feature contemporary design with ultra-tight panel gaps, new, smooth operating HVAC registers, switches and controls. The gauge cluster features a new look with well-defined analog dials surrounded by distinct bezels giving the cluster three-dimensional visual interest.

Every detail in Mountaineer's interior was scrutinized and improved for absolute driver and passenger comfort, from the breakthrough design of the interior door handles to the relocation of the heated seat controls from the seat sides to the center console.

A robust, trigger-released gear selector is now located in the center console.

The door release handle is also noteworthy. The handle is integrated into the end of the armrest with a curved contour that follows the shape of a human hand at rest. It operates in a smooth, natural pull-back motion to release the door.

Even the power window switches have been redesigned, moving from the rocker-switch type to a new recessed push-pull design.

New seats are more comfortable, and available in three different second-row configurations, the most in the mid-size sport-utility segment. Mountaineer Convenience comes standard with a 60/40-split fold-flat second-row bench seat. Luxury and Premier also have a standard 60/40-split second-row bench; in these arrays it is upgraded with reclining seat backs and also allows access to the third row of seats that is standard on these arrays. Available in Luxury and Premier are second-row bucket seats with a center console, an industry first in a mid-size sport-utility vehicle.

Fold-flat third-row seats are standard on Luxury and Premier versions of the 2006 Mountaineer and are available on the Convenience Array. Luxury and Premier arrays also are available with a third row with power-folding seat backs – a first in this segment.

THE NEXT GENERATION: Personal Safety System™

Perhaps the most significant amount of engineering work on the 2006 Mountaineer went into developing several industry- and segment-first safety systems.

For many years, most safety advancements were focused on keeping occupants safer when a crash occurs. Ford Motor Company continues as a leader in passive restraint systems, including Mountaineer's advanced Personal Safety System™. A wide variety of cutting-edge safety technologies join together in the system including new air bags that further adapt to an occupant's size and the severity of a crash.

Ford Motor Company is the leader in providing active safety technologies to the masses by offering as standard AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™ on most Ford, Lincoln and Mercury sport-utility vehicles, including the 2006 Mountaineer. AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™ is unlike any other stability control system made by any other automaker. It uses state-of-the-art gyroscope technology to sense a roll condition and then deploys countermeasures through braking and engine controls to attempt to bring the vehicle back under control. No other automaker uses this gyroscope technology in its system. Instead, they rely on a basic stability control system that helps prevent a slide, infers the possibility of a roll, but cannot actually sense a roll.

MORE POWER: New V-8, improved V-6

An all-new, more powerful three-valve 4.6-liter V-8 mated to a six-speed automatic transmission is an option in the 2006 Mercury Mountaineer. This advanced V-8 features variable cam timing and creates a robust 292 horsepower and 300 foot-pounds of torque. An improved version of the 4.0-liter V-6 with a five-speed automatic comes standard. An all-wheel drive system is optional and includes Ford's AdvanceTrac®, traction control system with Roll Stability Control™ standard on all Mountaineers.

A first for Mountaineer is the new '6R' six-speed automatic transmission, which comes standard with the three-valve 4.6-liter V-8. Using technology more commonly found in luxury sport sedans, this new six-speed provides smooth, seamless performance that makes the most of the new V-8's powerband while improving fuel efficiency.

Ford Motor Company is taking a leadership position in six-speed automatic transmissions to simultaneously boost performance – without necessarily going to larger engines – and fuel economy with the wider ratio spreads allowed by the extra gear.

'We believe performance and fuel economy can go hand-in-hand if you invest in the right technologies,' says Dave Szczupak, vice president, Powertrain Operations. 'That's why Ford is investing in six speed automatic transmissions, engines with advanced controls like variable cam timing and other advanced powertrain technologies.'

Today, less than one percent of all vehicles sold use a six-speed automatic. But by 2010, Ford Motor Company expect 15 to 20 percent will have six speeds, and 50 percent by 2015.

IMPROVED RIDE, HANDLING, STEERING AND BRAKING: Stronger, stiffer frame with revised front, all-new rear suspensions

A stronger frame, all-new independent rear suspension (IRS) and a revised front suspension, bigger brakes and improved steering all help combine to make this 2006 version the quietest, most comfortable and capable Mountaineer in the vehicle's 10-year history.

This more capable chassis, together with the more potent and efficient powertains, gives the 2006 Mountaineer the kind of driving dynamics that its stylish good looks would imply. But it's not only more upscale and powerful – it's also more functional and includes more safety features than ever before.

by Mercury Media

by Mercury

Debuting in 1997, the Mountaineer was all about luxury compacted into a SUV body style. The mid-size vehicle was sold by the Mercury division of Ford from 1997 until 2010. Many of its features were shared with the Ford Explorer, and under the hood the SUVs were basically the same. The Mountaineer was not only priced higher, but also featured more upscale features than the rugged Explorer.

The Explorer had been out in production for over two years when the similar Mountaineer was introduced as its twin. The Mountaineer only had slight differences from the Explorer and was offered as the 'premier' trim level. The new SUV featured a standard 302 cu in 215 hp Windsor V8 engine.

Unfortunately the first year didn't yield the sales that Mercury was hoping for. Customers weren't able to tell the two models apart, so for 1998 the Mountaineer received a front fascia flipped upside down, smaller headlights and a new rear hatch and distinct wheels. The standard powerplant was the new overhead-cam 4.0 L 205 hp Cologne V6 with a 5-speed 5R55E automatic that enhanced performance. Though the sales still couldn't compete with the Explorer, the Mountaineer sales steadily rose because of these updates that included stability and handling. Unfortunately the increasing number of rollover incidents caused the Mountaineer to lose some of its credibility as a roadworthy warrior. Both the Explorer and the Mountaineer underwent a brand new redesign in 2002 in an attempt to address any consumer safety fears.

The second generation of the Mountaineer arrived on the scene for 2002 along with a revamped Explorer. The Mountaineer received even more luxury features and was redesigned from the ground up. The luxury options included features like a rear-seat TV/DVD player, faux-brushed metal trim and rear radio deck. An unfortunate flaw in the second-generation design was rear hatch cracks near the Ford and Mercury logos. Other than this imperfection, the new design of the Mountaineer would be preview of what was to come on future Mercury models with more luxurious looks and features. The waterfall grill and barred taillights would become part of Mercury's new signature look eventually appearing on all future models.

The second-generation model featured all-new independent suspension that was modeled after the same concept as many luxury sedans. The SUV was still a fun ride though and featured more ground clearance along with skilled off road handling. Side curtain airbags that would deploy in the event of a rollover and additional air bags were part of the new safety features for 2002. The SUV was now 1.9 inches wider, which gave more leg and shoulder room for both the driver and passengers. Providing more room was an optional third row, fold-flat seat and bigger cabin. The Mountaineer's sales were a drastic improvement over the first generation models. Mountaineer owners have enjoyed their vehicles and are reported to have one of the highest owner loyalty ratings of an SUV.

The third generation Mountaineer was introduced in 2006 as a redesign on a new generation of Ford's U2 platform. The outside of the model didn't change much which the biggest changes being found in the new all-white tail lamps, chrome side view mirrors, bigger wheels and enlarged Mercury logos on the tailgate and grille. The Lincoln Aviator was now discontinued and Ford wanted to fill the empty spot between that and the Explorer, so the Mountaineer was offered in a more upscale sportier version. The inside of the Mountaineer now super high-class with a DVD-based navigation system with voice control. This was the first time that this feature was available on a Mountaineer. The interior was upgraded with more insulation to make the ride much quieter and the frame was revised along with the shocks to provide a smoother ride. Added to the standard equipment package in 2006 was enhanced handling thanks to the AdvanceTrac Stability control and Roll Stability control. Producing an astonishing 292 horsepower was a new t4.6, V7 powerhouse engine that increased gas mileage. New this year was an optional power operated third row seat and a navigation system.

For those looking for a little more than just a small compact SUV, the 2007 Mountaineer was a perfect midway point with the capability to haul like the big guys without the hefty fuel price. Six different trims were available this year that included all wheel drive versions. Various upgrades included a heated windshield, larger entertainment system screen, and an audio input jack.

Changes for 2008 included side curtain airbags and the 'M-O-U-N-T-A-I-N-E-E-R' badging removed from the front doors. The following year the trailer sway control became standard. The handy navigation system received traffic flow monitoring and gas prices updates from nearby gas stations. Ford's MyKey was added as standard in 2010 across all trim levels.

For 2010 the Mountaineer was even better than before with a bevy of extra space for carrying groceries, luggage and even extra passengers. The inside comfortably seats up to seven passengers. Two trim levels were available this year: the Base and the Premier. Both trim are available in either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations. Drivers had the option of two separate powertrain configurations: a 4.0L 210hp V6 combined with a 5-speed automatic transmission or a 4.6L 292hp V8 mated to an optional 6-speed auto transmission.

The 2010 Premiere trim level included 18-inch chrome wheels, leather upholstery, satellite radio, dual-zoned automatic climate control, third-row seating and the SYNC Communications System. Constantly monitoring the odds of the SUV overturning was Ford's AdvanceTrac stability control system with electronic rollover protection. The system would determine the probability 100 times per second. Other safety enhancements this year included anti-lock brakes, electronic traction control and side and curtain airbags and more.

New standard equipment included adjustable foot pedals, a power moonroof, position-memorizing heated front seats, separate climate control for the rear and a new audio system. The popular Ford Reverse Sensing System was new for this year and provided an audible signal whenever an object was within close proximity when reversing at low speeds. The audible signals beeps faster and faster the closer that you get to the object.

This would be the last generation of the Mercury Mountaineer as production ceased on October 1, 2010. As Ford was trying to do away with the Mercury marque the Mountaineer was caught in the crosshairs. No 2011 Mountaineers were production in 2011 like the rest of the Mercury lineup.

Following a large number of rollover accidents involving Mountaineers and Explorers the National Highway Traffic Safety Administrations (NHTSA) contacted Ford and Firestone regarding tire failure on models fitted with Firestone tires. It was found that various models of 15-inch Firestone tires had high failure rates, especially tires made at Firestone's Decatur, Illinois plant. The rollovers were caused by drivers overreacting to the tire blowout according to Car and Driver. The Ford Motor Company refuses to equip any car they sell with Firestones, even to this day.

Sales in 1996 totaled at 26,700 Mountaineer models sold, and nearly doubled in 1997 at 45,363 models. A total of 47,595 models were produced in 1998, and 49,281 in 1999. For 2000 the sales held strong at 46,547 before dipping slightly the following year at 45,574. They rose a bit in 2002 to 48,144 models produced and once again in 2003 to 49,692. In 2004 they dropped to 43,916 models and continued to drop steadily from there with only 32,491 models produced in 2005, and 29,567 in 2006. 2007 was not any better as sales continued to drop to 23,850 before plummeting to 10,596 in 2008, 5,169 in 2009 and finally 5,791 in 2010.

Sources:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercury_Mountaineer

http://www.carseek.com/reviews/mercury/mountaineer/

http://www.carseek.com/reviews/mercury/2010-mountaineer/

by Jessican Donaldson