1997 Mercury Mountaineer Specs, Price, Review & Road Test

Our fondness for the Mercury Mountaineer grew over time as the luxury-oriented sport/ute proved a trusted daily steed and capable weekend escape vehicle. Far from love at first sight, our admiration for the rebadged Ford Explorer increased over the year we spent with it.

We immediately appreciated its clean, conservative styling, above-the-crowd view of the road, torquey V-8, comfortable leather-clad seats, confidence-inspiring steering feel, and cargo-carrying versatility. However, the reason our affection required time to grow is that, after hopping into the Mountaineer from competitive vehicles, our assessments were less than glowing. Such back-to-back comparisons made evident its rougher ride, louder tire and wind noise, pitifully low cornering traction, gluttonous fuel usage, tight rear-seat room, less than pleasing ergonomics, and ineffective tires for off-road situations. And we swooned at its towering window sticker. Still, these gripes faded with time behind the wheel.

"This is a pretty good vehicle," summed up one editor after a long drive. "Not outstanding, but very competent. I've grown to have warm affection-but not love!-for this truck." Almost universally, the Mountaineer owners we surveyed reported far more positive feelings.

"I passionately love everything about my Mountaineer," said a 51-year-old businessman from Colorado. "It's the best vehicle I've ever owned."