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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Worth A Strong Buying Consideration - 2010 Mercury Mariner
By J Tolnet - March 24 - 4:06 pmThe Mariner has thus far been shown to be one of the better vehicles that I have purchased,which numbers in excess of 20, occurring over 45 years of driving. I traded in a 2007 Saturn Aura which was rated as North American Car of the Year, in reality, it was one of the worst, just behind a 1982 American Eagle & 1978 Chrysler Labaron. The Mariner rides smooth and solid over all road types including those classed as rough. Fit & finish are excellent. A bit more than I wanted to spend, but I am well pleased with its initial quality and the way it drives, it is one the easiest driving vehicles that I can recall ever driving. Would I buy this car again ? Yes, without reservation.
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New to SUVs - 2006 Mercury Mariner
By Debi - March 19 - 6:13 amI have owned a Lexus SC400 for the past eight years. After buying a home on a hill and realizing I could not haul anything for the house in my car and when it snowed my car was useless - I decided it was time to go the SUV route. Reluctant as I was, I am very happy with my choice of the Mercury Mariner. So far, I am enjoying the look and feel of the Mariner, the attention to detail in the exterior and interior. The SUV feels very solid and has a smooth ride. I am looking forward to the handling of the Mariner in the Seattle rain and snow.
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What A Great Small SUV - 2006 Mercury Mariner
By Greg in Texas - March 9 - 12:56 amThe Mariner has been a wonderful surpise the first year of ownership. The ride is smooth and being over 64" I can sit in comfort and not feel all cramped in. The Mach stereo system is fantastic and all the controls are at my finger tip. the vehicle has been wonderful on trips to Kansas City to watch Chiefs football games. The gas milage is averaging 23-24 mpg.
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Worst vehicle Ive ever owned - 2006 Mercury Mariner
By Jason - February 20 - 8:56 amSeriously the worst vehicle I have ever had. 40,000 miles the transmission blew and needed a completely new one with no help from Ford due to the warranty ending at 36K. Now the front end is starting to go and the brakes are shot. I cant wait to get rid of this car.
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Love it! - 2008 Mercury Mariner
By Jeran - February 8 - 8:26 amWe just adore our 2008 Mariner. Its got the quickest V-6 of any of the similar SUVs out there, room for the wheelchair lift, and comfortable for a long roadtrip as well as running errands around town. The backseat folds almost totally flat so its good for the dogs and crates. Gorgeous inside too.
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Great FWD SUV - 2011 Mercury Mariner
By simplyteeb - February 2 - 10:00 am4 Cylinder was very surprising and powerful. Very quiet on the highway and the 30+ mpg is a real treat. LOTS of hauling capacity. Overall a great little SUV that is very fun to drive and very easy on gas.
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What a ride - 2010 Mercury Mariner
By mtre - January 14 - 11:23 pmThis car was actually our number two choice. We had picked out a JGC to purchase but kept getting the run around from the Jeep dealership. All I can say is Thank Goodness they tried to hose us. We got a much better vehicle, with more options, and better overall quality, for a heck of a lot less money. We are sold on Ford products for life. Thank you Bob Howard Ford of Okc! I will never stray to GM or Chrysler again.
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Leaking Fuel System - 2009 Mercury Mariner
By Steve - January 7 - 12:40 pmFord Motor Co. doesnt tell you in the owners manual nor are dealerships aware that the "new" cap less fuel system that Ford has been installing on nearly all its vehicles for the past two years leaks when you top off the gas tank, as confirmed by my dealership in both 2009 and 2010 models. Ford will not make any repairs for this and tells the customer not to top off the gas tank.
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2006 Mercury Mariner Premier - 2006 Mercury Mariner
By len.adler - December 31 - 8:50 pmSince delivery this car has been fun to drive, and without mechanical defect. Its higher position enables seeing over sedans in a traffic line. It is nimble and comfortable. The mpg average of 20-25 on the highway is disappointing in todays gasoline prices. Five passengers can travel comfortably, and the back section is great for our black lab, even on long trips.
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What did I do???? - 2006 Mercury Mariner
By Stacy - December 24 - 2:13 pmI bought this vehicle 3 weeks ago, and am thinking I may have made a big mistake. I traded in my 2004 Toyota corolla with 26,000 miles for this vehicle 2 years newer with 53,000 miles. Typical woman I was cuz I took one look at it and thought it was SO CUTE!!!! Plus, I always wanted a little SUV. A week and a half after I got it, I needed a new Alternator. Now, my husband thinks I have a small oil leak. I guess time will tell. I do know that someone must have gotten a great little toyota. Never had any problems with that car!! Oh well, ladies, dont be fooled by the cuteness!!
