Buyers are a bit more hesitant about buying a full-size SUV, but Mercury intends to sway shoppers by dressing up the Mountaineer with special attributes, like power running boards (boards integrate into the rocker panels when driver door closes, and the boards automatically come into place when door opens), an all-new interior, and a new, easier-to-move steering system. Mountaineer employs a 292 horsepower 4.6-liter V8 mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. For 2006, the SUV is stronger (63 percent more bending rigidity and 55 percent more torsional rigidity), and the body mounts are 169 percent stiffer than the prior model year. Another re-engineered locale is the side mirrors, which are now larger but with less wind noise due in part to a lower inside edge re-design. The new interior is eye-catching, but the large touch screen (for navigation, air conditioning and audio controls) comes off a bit clinical since the rest of the interior (from seat surfaces to accent materials) conveys a warm and inviting appearance. Another zone that could be altered is the locale for the interior door handle. To shut the door, an awkward, unnatural reach is needed. Standard fare includes heated front seats, independent front and rear suspension, and satin aluminum roof rails. Mountaineer registers per gallon fuel economy estimates of 14 city/20 highway. The MSRP of the all-wheel-drive Premier edition Mountaineer is $35,500.