Contributing to this sizable cargo surface is a 3.5-inch wider gap between wheel houses. Of course, comfortable passenger hauling is the focus of this upscale vehicle. Ridding of the traditional solid axle and leaf springs in favor of an independent rear suspension permits Mountaineer's floor to be lowered 7 inches. The buckets offer firm and supportive seating, and headroom and legroom to accommodate tall passengers. Fitting into the driver seat is a convenient process, with a 10-inch seat track and optional adjustable pedals with three inches of travel.
Life also is good for tall passengers in the second row.
Outboard sections of the middle seat flip up and tumble forward to clear access for the two-place third bench. Leg-stretching room is limited, making the third seat best suited for children. Mountaineer's interior design is in sync with the exterior, featuring satin-aluminum trim adorning the center control panel, steering wheel spokes and door trim. Thinner than that of previous-generation models, Mercury boasts the new steering wheel as having a compromise size that works better for both men and women. White-faced analog gauges with black numbers further convey precision with a look reminiscent of a quality timepiece.