Overview & Reviews
Small SUVs like the Mercury Mariner represent one of the near-perfect compromises of the automotive world. They allow consumers to sit up high with a broad view of the road, load up children and cargo without bending and twisting, and plow through freak winter storms without stopping to put on snow chains. Yet, unlike larger SUVs, they're easy to drive, easy to park and (mostly) easy on the wallet when it comes time to refuel.
As such, having a compact sport-utility in the lineup is a must for any successful automotive brand. Mercury was a latecomer to this segment, adding the Mariner to its portfolio for 2005. Only three years later, it received a thorough cosmetic freshening and that was followed the next year by mechanical improvements. Sadly, this addition to the lineup wasn't enough to save Mercury, as the brand was gone after 2011.
A sibling of the Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute, the Mercury Mariner compact crossover SUV used all the same underpinnings as its relatives, but gained unique styling touches inside and out. In general, it was a mid-pack choice for a modern compact SUV; other top crossovers typically offered greater refinement, versatility and overall performance.
Most Recent Mercury Mariner
The Mariner was sold for two generations. The more recent version was offered from 2008-'11. Compared to earlier Mariners, these newer models featured an exterior and interior makeover that improved quality.
Mercury offered two trim levels: base and the more upscale Premier. In that first year, a 2.3-liter inline-4 rated for 153 horsepower and 152 pound-feet of torque powered the base Mariner. The base V6 and Premier models came with a 3.0-liter V6 good for 200 hp and 193 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive was available across the board.
For 2009, mechanical changes were made. The inline-4 grew to 2.5 liters and 171 hp, the V6 was pumped up to 240 hp and both were matched to a new six-speed automatic transmission. That year also saw the debut of Ford's Sync multimedia voice control system and a revised suspension that improved ride quality. In light of all that, the 2009 and later Mariners are the more desirable ones. A number of high-tech features arrived for 2010, including Ford's MyKey system (which allows parents to limit speed and audio volume for their teen drivers), a back-up camera and a nifty Auto Park feature that steers the car during parallel parking.
Although the Mariner had some desirable technology features, its subpar brakes and aged overall design were fairly apparent when compared to rivals from Chevrolet, Honda, Hyundai and Toyota. As such, if you're shopping for a used compact SUV, we recommend that you also consider those competitors before making a decision.
Past Mercury Mariners
The Mercury Mariner was introduced for 2005 as a slightly more upscale twin to the Ford Escape. As such, the pre-2008 models suffered from poor interior materials just like the Escape. Still, this "original" model was pleasant to drive, with tight and responsive handling that only fails to impress when compared with newer compact SUVs. From '05 through '08, the Mariner was powered by either by a 2.3-liter inline-4 that made 153 hp or a 3.0-liter V6 making 200 hp -- both of which came with a four-speed automatic transmission. The '05 to '07 Mariner came in base Convenience, midlevel Luxury and high-line Premier trims. The Convenience model offered basics like air-conditioning, a CD player and power accessories, while the Luxury moved you up to a V6 engine and a few more features. The Premier's highlights included leather seating, rear parking sensors and side airbags.
User Reviews:
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So far, So good... - 2008 Mercury Mariner
By SC - May 15 - 4:06 amWhile Ive only owned this car for about one month, Ive already hit my first 1000 and love it. Its not a V- 6, but the ride power doesnt feel much different than my previous suv, which was 6 cylinder. So far, this purchase has been well worth it. Ive gotten several compliments on the look of this vehicle and my friends who have ridden in it compliment on the smoothness of the ride.
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Lovin My New Ride !!!! - 2008 Mercury Mariner
By tigger66 - May 8 - 10:47 pmI purchased my 08 Mariner after my "00 Tacoma was recalled due to a safety issue. I love the blue dash panel,the 6 disc CD changer and the MP3 port.The climate controls and the sound system controls are nicely located and easy to use. The console shift makes it look sporty which I love.The center console is roomy and has a removable tray that can be used elsewhere in the vehicle. The seats are very comfortable which was a concern of mine. My only issue is the silver painted plastic which is used on the console and on the door panels...They scuff and look old and cheap.I did buy my vehicle pre-owned so I didnt expect perfection however for a three year old vehicle,this shouldnt be an issue.
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Good but not good enough - 2005 Mercury Mariner
By Vanz73 - April 25 - 6:20 amI bought this because my old expedition would not fit into my new company garage. I wanted something small but still in the SUV range. I was initially impressed with the features of the vehicle but in time I have found this vehicle lacking. It uses way to much gas with weak acceleration. The brake rotors are so cheap I spent more than $400 getting them replaced after only 19,000 miles (yes I drive hard - thats why I drive an SUV!). I have had it in for warranty service to replace the gas tank intake and several switches (window, sunroof). My brother has the same vehicle and he likes it. For me, I am counting the days to trade it in.
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Initial impression exceeds expectations - 2005 Mercury Mariner
By E. Keck - April 18 - 7:13 amThis is my first Ford (L-M) product in twelve years. I wanted an SUV for the hauling capability, yet didnt want the mileage penalty. The 4 cylinder is quite peppy, and provides decent mileage (23-24 MPG overall in the break-in period). I cant wait to see what it finally settle into. Styling is by far the nicest of all of the SUVs on the road. Interior is well laid out, and has plenty of room for tall individuals. The only criticism is that the seats are a bit narrow, but at least they are forgiving and provide decent comfort. For a base convenience, this vehicle comes well equipped. The base CD system is very nice. Id recommend a test drive, you will be pleasantly surprised.
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Love my Mariner - 2005 Mercury Mariner
By debd - April 16 - 2:23 amI absolutely love my Mariner. I bought it new three years ago and I havent had one complaint with it. I love that this SUV has a sporty look, but at the same time its elegant. My Mariner is black with beige leather interior and its so bueatiful. I get so many compliments on it (still after 3 years). Its big enough for 5 people to fit comfortably, yet driving its so easy to get in and out of small spaces. I just cant say enough about this vehicle. Beleive me you will love this SUV.
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08 Mariner Premier - 2008 Mercury Mariner
By Tyler - April 3 - 3:53 amMy new 08 Mercury Mariner is an awesome SUV it has a smooth ride it handles great has plenty of cargo space and to be just a 3.0L V6 it has plenty of get up and go and it runs very quiet and the transmission shifts very smooth and the Exterior looks great i love the design and style and the fit and finish is very good inside and out and to be as small as it is it has plenty of space for you to get comfortable and i love the way all the radio and climate controls are made and i like the display screen at the top of the dash above the a/c vents the interior design looks great i love everything about this SUV i couldnt be happier i really think you should check the Mariner out cause its awesome
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Burned!!! - 2008 Mercury Mariner
By kingsime1 - April 2 - 6:04 amI have bought and paid for a 2008 Mercury Mariner, and on the day I made that last payment...my 2008 Mercury Mariner literally started to fall apart! From the "torque converter" to the cigarette lighter...you name it, and theres a problem...of which I see thousands of complaints online, yet no recalls, or any attempts by your company to right these wrongs your company has done by knowingly selling faulty products, and doing absolutely nothing about repairing these problems after youve taken the money! I swear, I will NEVER purchase an american product (not only cars, but anything with "made in U.S.A." on it) in my life. Its no wonder the american car companies folded to the foreigners!
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Watch out for leak - 2008 Mercury Mariner
By tom - March 29 - 1:13 amPurchased mariner 4 months ago. Ran great then noticed fluid leaking from transmission coolant. Knew the Escape had this problem so i purchased the mariner. Good thing SUV still under warranty at 33,000 mi.
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Great Price Near Luxury - Power ?s - 2006 Mercury Mariner
By vanz73 - March 2 - 8:30 pmA good choice for someone who wants a nice vehicle at a very reasonable price-a good small SUV for the city driver. I would not recommend if you are a driver who likes a little power in reserve for maneuvering - this vehicle picks bad times to disappoint on the power curve (i.e. changing lanes or making left turns between traffic). I figure IÂ’ll learn the how to get the most from the CVT transmission, but performance is lacking for a people who know how to drive. Still a good family vehicle, sturdy, and overall nice to drive (exception noted). WeÂ’ll keep it because overall for the price we got a lot of vehicle compared to Toyota Highlander, RAV4, Nissan Murano, etc.
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Fun small SUV! - 2005 Mercury Mariner
By Steven Baily - March 2 - 6:56 amThis vehicle replaces a four door sedan we used to have, with kids on the way it was time for a small SUV. We looked at many others and felt the Mercury fit the bill with its smooth styling and wealth of features. We liked the rainge of options including the AWD with the powerful V6. The acceleration is wonderfully smooth and totally unexpected from this SUV, everytime I drive this vehicle I am totally blown away! I only bought the car on Saturday and weve already put 1,000 miles on it!
