Engine: 4.6-liter sohc 24-valve V8

Engine Options: 210-hp 4.0-liter V6; 292-hp 4.6-liter V8

Transmission: 6-speed automatic with Steptronic

Transmission Options: 5-speed automatic; 6-speed automatic

Standard Safety Equipment: dual-stage frontal airbags; front-seat side-impact airbags; ABS with brake assist; electronic stability control system with roll-over sensor; tire pressure monitoring system

Optional Safety Equipment: front- and second-row side air curtains and reverse sensing system

Basic Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles

Assembled In: St. Louis, Missouri

Model Tested: 2006 Mercury Mountaineer Premier ($33,300)

Standard Equipment: dual-zone, automatic climate control; AM/FM/CD premium stereo with six-disc, in-dash changer; power windows, outside mirrors and keyless remote central locking; 6-way driver and 4-way front passenger power seats; two-driver memory settings; leather-wrapped, tilt steering wheel with redundant audio and climate system controls; leather seating; heated front seats and outside mirrors; programmable, remote garage opener; electro-chromatic, inside rearview mirror; auto-on/off headlights; fixed running boards; electronic message center; fog lamps; satin-finish, aluminum roof rails; Class II trailer tow/hitch

Options as Tested: all-wheel drive ($2200); power running boards ($695); power adjustable pedals with memory ($225); navigation system ($1995); rear seat entertainment system ($1295); Class III/IV trailer tow package ($150)

Destination Charge: 645

Gas Guzzler Tax:

Layout: all-wheel drive

Horsepower: 292 @ 5750

Torque: 300 @ 4750

Miles Per Gallon in the City/Highway: 14/20

Wheelbase: 113.7 inches

Length/Width/Height in Inches: 193.5/73.5/72.8 inches

Track Front/Rear: 60.9/62 inches

Turning Cycle: 36.8 feet

Seating Capacity: 7 people

Head/Hip/Leg Room, f: 39.8/55.4/42.4 inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, m: 38.7/55.5/36.9 inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, r: 37.4/45.3/34.9 inches

Trunk Volume: 82.8 cubic feet

Payload:

Suspension, f: independent, short-and-long arm, coil spring-over-shock, stabilizer bar

Ground Clearance: 8.2 inches

Curb Weight: 4742 pounds

Towing Capacity: 6980 pounds

Tires: P245/65R17 all-terrain

Brakes: disc/disc with ABS and brake assist

Fuel Capacity: 22.5 Gallons