2008 Mercury Mariner Review

The 2008 Mariner shares its engines and chassis with the Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute, though its distinctive looks-especially at the front-are all Mercury. Buyers have several models from which to choose when browsing the Mariner lineup, and each has something different to offer.

Engine choices include a 153-horsepower 2.3L four-cylinder, which comes in the Mariner I4 in both front- and all-wheel drive (FWD, AWD). Next is the 200-horsepower 3.0L V6 found in the Mariner V6 and Mariner Premier, both of which can be had in either FWD or AWD. Finally, a 2.3L Atkinson-cycle I4 with electric motor hybrid drive is available in AWD and-new this year-a less expensive FWD version. All Mariner I4, V6, and Premier models utilize a four-speed automatic transmission, while the Hybrid employs an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (eCVT).

The Mariners are nicely appointed with such features as an MP3 input jack, a roomy center console, ice-blue lighting, power windows and locks, 60/40 split rear seat, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with cruise control, multiple power points, power mirrors, fog lamps, remote keyless entry, and more. The utility's tune-up interval is an impressive 100,000 miles. A choice of in-dash six-disc CD changers, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, six-way power driver seat, and automatic headlights are optional on Mariner I4 and V6 models.

Standard on Premier models is leather seating front and rear with Alcantara inserts, a six-disc in-dash CD stereo with satellite radio compatibility, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, illuminated vanity mirrors, a power driver seat, 16-inch machined aluminum wheels, automatic headlamps, and a reverse sensing system. Optional equipment includes amenities like heated mirrors and heated front seats.

Several options are shared across the gas-engine models, including a lockable wet storage locker, overhead console, cargo storage system, full-sized spare tire, and integrated running boards. Across the entire Mariner line, buyers can get DVD-based navigation, Sirius satellite radio, and a roof rack.

Mariners can come equipped with one or more special equipment packages, including a $395 Class II Tow Package on V6 and Premier Mariners and a Premium Hybrid Package, which adds heated front seats, reverse sensing, roof rack with satin inserts, navigation, leather seats and heated mirrors.

Standard safety equipment on all Mariners includes four-wheel anti-lock brakes, tire pressure monitoring, front, side curtain, and front seat-side air bags, and a SecuriLock passive anti-theft system.
For 2008, the Mercury Mariner has been redesigned outside and in. Exterior sheet metal carries bolder lines with a more distinctive grille and headlight treatment, as well as stronger wheel well arches. Inside, the passenger cabin is more pleasing visually, as well as more user-friendly and thoughtfully laid out. Nothing of the Mariner's underpinnings has been changed, though trim names have. Gone are the Convenience and Luxury monikers of last year, replaced by names directly reflective of the engines underneath-I4 and V6, respectively. Only the Premier name remains. The Mariner Hybrid adds a less expensive front-wheel-drive model to its popular all-wheel-drive model. Prices across the model range have changed little, though the top-line Premier models are now more than $1,000 cheaper than the cars they replace. see less