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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  A total disappointment - 2011 Mercury Mariner
  By disappointed73 - November 14 - 7:58 pm

  Two months after purchasing my 2011 Mariner 4 cylinder the rear window exploded. Even though the dealer claimed ignorance to the issue I found many occurrences on the internet proving it was a known defect. The air conditioner quit working next. Took the dealer 3 attempts to fix it during the hottest period in Wisconsin in decades. Next a defective alternator pulley required 3 days at the dealer. Since the replacement of the pulley the air conditioner has quit working again. The warranty will expire very soon. Now I just want to get rid of the car. Had enough.

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  I like my Mariner - 2005 Mercury Mariner
  By Andrea - October 28 - 7:40 pm

  This car handles very well, has excellent acceleration, and is basically fun to drive. The base model includes all the essential features (auto.,A/C,CD,cruise,p/w,p/l,etc.), and the gas mileage is very good. Personally, I dont like giant gas- guzzling SUVs, so the economical and compact Mariner was a good choice for me. It gives you the utility, seat height, and road view of an SUV without being cumbersome and wasteful. Also, a lot of people have complimented the looks of the vehicle.

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  My ultimate dream car! - 2005 Mercury Mariner
  By Shannen Wirgau - October 26 - 3:03 pm

  My Mariner drives like a dream, in fact it is my dream! I feel as though I am extremely secure and am at the utmost safety while I drive. The leg room and space it provided is incredible. I feel extremely comfortable while in unsafe conditions outside because my car is sturdy and rides like a cloud!

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  Transmission!! - 2008 Mercury Mariner
  By lb330011 - October 18 - 8:05 am

  I had to participate in the recall on the transmission a couple years ago after having my car less than a year. Today I go to start it and the transmission is completely out! Never again will I buy a Ford. The customer service is horrible and of course the new transmission issue has nothing to do with them.

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  From Lexus to Merc - 2009 Mercury Mariner
  By Gordkeys - October 11 - 5:40 am

  I wanted all wheel drive in a comfortable smaller SUV. I had a lexus sedan and wanted to go American. My wife leased a Mariner recently and is in love with it. I rather liked it more than I thought I would, and found few vehicles that were as functional, comfortable, and well priced as the Merc. Also the 0% financing was a strong motivator. Its surprisingly good, and I dont miss the Japanese competitors. I am hoping to say that in years to come. Go Ford.

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  A good ride - 2005 Mercury Mariner
  By MIke - October 2 - 8:33 am

  A solid small SUV. Nice looking styling in and out. The only drawbacks (So far) are the high door sills and the very poor fuel economy, 15 city, 20 on the interstate, but a good 25 at 60 mph.

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  2009 Mercury Mariner - 2009 Mercury Mariner
  By ILS - September 23 - 9:00 pm

  Within the first 6000 miles the transmission began to "clunk". I took it to the Dealership and was told it was a "characteristic" of the transmission. It is loud and it sometimes takes a second to "engage" and then the "clunk". I am not happy about this. The material on the drivers seat is loose and "puckered up" where I sit. I weigh 120 lbs and I am the only driver. Looks terrible! Sync is a great feature for phones but it is not compatible with my cell phone! Forget trying to figure out the Media! Even the dealersip didnt have a clue. I buy a new car every 2 years and this is the first American Car I have purchased new, wont do that again.

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  Fit for a diva! - 2005 Mercury Mariner
  By jae - September 20 - 9:46 pm

  I recently had some serious electrical issues with my 2001 Volvo S-40 and was at the mechanics more than I was at school or work. Like most people my time is one of my most valuable assets. I saw the Mariner on a snowy day and thought ,why not? Warranty, New, Cheap parts after warranty,good in the snow (supposedly), and lets not forget the rebates that helped with the negative inequity on the Volvo.

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  Mariner Premier V6 FWD VOGA Edition - 2009 Mercury Mariner
  By Bill - September 16 - 1:13 pm

  New engine and transmission deliver smooth performance with more than adequate power. White suede paint looks good. The black and cashmere interior is very sharp, and the stylish look has garnered many positive comments particularly from women. Controls and displays are well laid out and easy to use / monitor without diverting attention from the road. Getting almost 20 MPG in 65% city / 35% freeway driving in the Austin heat with the AC on. Steering gives the car a very light feel but is accurate. AC very powerful for front passengers on hot days even set at 78 degrees with fan on a low setting. Very little sun glare on dashboard or center displays.

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  Happy so Far - 2009 Mercury Mariner
  By Desert Mariner - September 11 - 3:43 pm

  I never expected to buy a Ford product, havent owned one in over 25 years. I fully expected to by a CRV, RAV4, or Saturn Vue, only reluctantly looked at Ford/Mercury. Ended up with the Mariner because it was the best combination of styling, comfort, power, and features. The Saturn was my favorite styling but the seating was not comfortable - just too much smaller than the competition. The CRV had bland styling and no bluetooth or any cool features. The RAV4 had roomiest seating but cheap looking interior and the spare on the door was a minus, plus bluetooth only on fully loaded vehicles. Like the Mariner styling; like front grille & rear tailights better than on Ford Escape.