Devoted to the auto industry – builders to enthusiasts

During the recent inaugural Tour of Missouri bicycle race, I drove the 2008 Mariner Premier with all-wheel drive nearly 1,000 miles in eight days. While crossing the state West to East on primarily high-speed highways, the Mariner performed well under nearly ideal late summer conditions.

The highway speed limit varies in Missouri, and I often used the cruise control (inset switches at the nine p.m. location of the steering wheel) and set it at the flow of traffic about 5 mph above the maximum. It worked with ease and was one of the smoother cruise control systems I've tested. The Mariner's mileage estimates are 17 mpg (city) and 22 mpg (highway) and during my week with the vehicle, I averaged 20.6 mpg.

The 3.0-liter 200 horsepower V6 isn't the quickest SUV on the market, but nor was it ever sluggish. While changing lanes or accelerating on freeway ramps, the Mariner got the job done. I had good vision, with no blind spots. I also liked the console dials' soft-tone green illumination during night driving.

Like its SUV siblings, the Mariner's design isn't eye-catching, but there's nothing wrong with a straightforward design and a non high-tech approach. My test vehicle's exterior was metallic red (officially it's called vivid red metallic clearcoat), and it was complemented by a black (black stone) leather interior.

The standard features list: AM/FM radio with in-dish 6-disc CD and MP3 and four speakers, fog lamps, privacy glass, automatic off/on headlamps, remote keyless entry with keypad, reverse sensing system, dual illuminated vanity mirrors, compass and outside temperature display.

The Premier, one of three models offered (there are also base and hybrid models), included the previously mentioned larger engine and all-wheel drive, among other upgraded features — navigation system, seven-speaker CD changer ($1,995) and four less-expensive pages: Sirius satellite radio ($195),  rear cargo convenience package ($195), trailer towing package ($395) and heated seats package ($295). With the standard destination and delivery charge ($695), the 2008 Mariner's total price is just under $30,000 — the average price of a new car in the United States.

And that's just about right. The Mariner is satisfactory, albeit unspectacularly average — just like a lot of other small SUVs.

Facts & Figures: Safety Features — Driver and front passenger dual-stage front airbags; Fuel Mileage (estimates) – 17 mpg (city), 22 mpg (highway); Warranty – Bumper to bumper, 3/36,000 miles; Powertrain, 5 years/60,000 miles; Corrosion, 5 years/unlimited miles; 24-Hour roadside assistance, 5 years/60,000 miles; Base Price - $25,380.00