Part five of a six-part series on cool hybrids for 2008:
Mercury Mariner — Base price, $25,655; Safety Features, dual-front, front side and side curtain airbags; Fuel Mileage estimates, 29-27 mpg (AWD); Warranty, Bumper to Bumper, 3 years/36,000 miles; Powertrain, 8 years/100,000 miles; Corrosion, 12 years/unlimited miles.
Now in its third year, the Mariner hybrid received a refreshed interior and exterior for 2008, and with its re is available with three engine options, with the hybrid teaming an all-wheel-drive, four-cylinder gas engine with a battery-powered electric motor, and it uses a continuously variable automatic transmission.
The Mariner's hybrid system automatically runs on one or both power sources. The hybrid and the larger V6 option also include four-wheel disc brakes and an antilock braking system (ABS).
Like most SUV's, (hybrid or gas) the Mariner provides good visibility and versatility. It offers a surprisingly adept turning radius and a smooth, steady ride . Likewise, like its hybrid brethren, the Mariner is particularly quiet during stops when the electric motor dominates.
Hybrids aren't known for swift acceleration or power to spare, and that's holds true for the Mariner. It's not slow (it has a 0-60 mph rating of 9.6 seconds). But accelerating does take an extra effort, and the hybrid could use some extra horsepower on steady inclines.
The Mariner has a handsome exterior with nicely contoured edges, a complementary front grill and well-designed front and rear lights. It has room for five adults, good leg and head room, and good cargo space with individual window and rear hatch opening
It's available in one four-door body style with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Standard features include: air conditioning, power steering, tilt leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, center console, cup holders, split folding rear seat, power mirrors, windows and door locks, remote keyless entry, keypad entry, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, digital clock, tachometer, variable-intermittent wipers, visor mirrors, map lights, rear defogger, rear wiper/washer, floor mats, theft-deterrent system, fog lights and rear back-up hazard detection system.
The Mariner's leather trim, navigation system, side airbags and heated power mirrors are all part of the nearly $4,000 "premium package."
With its option costs and delivery and destination charges, the Mariner's final approaches $33,000. That's more than many of its competitors, but Mercury hopes the vehicle's good looks and steady marks in most categories will help it attract a good share of the crowded SUV market.
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