2005 Mercury Mariner Premier 4WD

Susan Frissell

Much like its cousin the Ford Escape, Mariner is an entry-level SUV, easy to drive and maneuver yet, big enough to do some hauling. New to the Mercury lineup, Mariner comes equipped with a standard 4-cylinder engine (153 hp.), and an optional V6 with 200 horsepower. We didn't have an opportunity to drive the 4-cylinder but have to believe it just wouldn't provide enough power or acceleration to please. With fuel economy at 22/26, one isn't saving much by opting for the V6 engine. The V6 Duratec engine is just adequate, but not overwhelming therefore, in our estimation a must.

SPECS
MSRP	$26,405; total vehicle price: $28.005; destination $590
Engine	3.0-liter Duratec DOHC V6, 200 hp.
Transmission	4-speed automatic
Wheelbase	103.0 in.
Height	67.9 in.
Length	174.3 in.
Width	70.1 in.
Weight	3,520 lbs.
EPA Fuel Economy	18/23 mpg.
Tires	P235/70R16 BSW
Wheels	16-inch Mach aluminum
Warranty	3 yr/36,000-mile; 100K mile tune-up

The new Mariner is derived from Volvo's XC90 platform and falls into the compact sport-utility category and competes with Toyota RAV4, Jeep Liberty and Honda CR-V. In 2007, Ford adds a gas/electric version to please environmentalists. Mariner is available in three trim levels: base, Luxury and Premier, in two-and-four-wheel-drive, and a choice of two engines, 4-cylinder or V-6.

Part of the standard equipment on our test Mariner Premier Edition included power heated mirrors, a comfort group, Luxury enhancement package (V6, heated front seats, power 6-way driver seat, Mach AM/FM stereo with 6-CD in-dash changer. Options included a reverse sensing system ($255), roof rack with crossbars ($160), and dynamic side impact package with canopy and side air bags ($595).

Additional standard equipment includes automatic off/on headlamps, fog lamps, side repeater lamps, dual heated mirrors, leather seats/steering wheel, overhead console, electronic message center, ABS, power windows/doors/mirrors, anti theft system, air conditioning, among others.

Driving the Mariner is effortless and we much prefer this size sport-utility over the larger offerings (Expedition, Excursion). Climbing in/out of the Mariner isn't such an effort for a small passenger/driver. Our Mariner came equipped with optional running boards, something we don't really favor as it makes it more difficult to dismount. For a short person, the chances of becoming tripped up are greater, we found.

Folding down the second row of seats was fairly straightforward and freed up plenty of space to tote purchases made at Menards. Mariner's interior appointments don't stand out as unique, but are serviceable and easy to operate. Handling this small SUV is easy for most drivers, but could use a wider turning radius to navigate those tight spots.

Just when you thought Mercury might disappear, they've hit the road running with the introduction of the Mariner this year, the Monterey minivan last year, the 2005 Montego sedan, and coming up, the 2006 Milan mid-size family sedan.

Although based on Ford's Escape SUV, Mariner stands apart as we remember Mercury vehicles did in the past. There was the belief that paying a couple hundred more one would ensure more luxury and prestige. Mercury seems to not have forgotten its roots. It's nice being back in a Ford product.