The Mercury Mountaineer grew larger last year (model-year 2002), to accommodate both the third seat and the new independent rear suspension system. It is a brawny beast, its size tempered by its waterfall grille design, multi-element headlamps, and lots of matte aluminum exterior trim, including horizontal cages around the taillamp assemblies.

Our test vehicle was painted in a Mineral Grey clearcoat metallic, with a light gray lower accent panel and a matte black roof rack, very pleasing to our eye, and enhancing its postmodern industrial design. The exterior graphics are all straightforward, businesslike block letters. That the Mountaineer is attractive is a good thing because it is expected to represent the design direction Mercury is taking with its future products.

We especially liked the big over-or-under door handles than can be operated easily with gloved hands. Many manufacturers use small lever-style handles that sometimes snap away from your fingers when you're in a hurry. Optional running boards are convenient for passengers of small stature trying to enter and exit gracefully.