Mariner's V6 has good power for most situations--even with AWD, which adds only 150-160 lb. Test AWD V6s were timed at 8.9 sec from 0-60 mph. Our experience with test Ford Escapes shows 4-cyl performance is only adequate at best. Mariner's automatic transmission is generally smooth, but sometimes hesitates to downshift for passing. The Hybrid provides adequate acceleration. Its gas-electric operation is generally smooth, though transitions between gas and electric power sources can be abrupt. Fuel economy is respectable for the class. A test AWD Premier averaged 16.3 mpg in mostly city driving, 19.3 in more-balanced city/highway use. Test AWD Hybrids averaged 24.8-28.8 mpg. All models use regular-grade fuel. The Hybrid's fuel tank holds 15 gallons vs. 16.5 on other models. Mariners include 16-inch tires like all Tributes and most Escapes, but have slightly softer suspension. Ride is thus a tad more absorbent, with less impact harshness. The tradeoff is a touch more float over high-speed dips and swells, though it's not severe. Mariner's handling is pleasant and poised on-road, with moderate cornering lean, good balance, and firm, direct steering. Braking power is good, but some testers say emergency stops induce too much nosedive. Inside, chrome, aluminum-finish and woodgrain accents nicely dress up the mostly well-designed dashboard shared with Escape and Tribute. But the Hybrid's available navigation system suffers a small screen and controls that compromise its usefulness. Heated leather seats are available for Luxury and Hybrid; Premiers come with heated seats and smart two-tone leather/faux-suede upholstery. Interior materials and general workmanship are above average for the class. Engines are fairly raucous at high rpm--Hybrid included--but quiet enough at normal highway speeds. Wind rush is marked from around 60 mph, mostly from the door mirrors. Coarse-pavement tire thrum is audible but not irksome. Some testers feel Mariners and Mazda Tributes are slightly quieter overall than Ford Escapes. There is adult-size leg and head room in front, but the optional sunroof trims head clearance for tall occupants. Some testers find the front seats flat and unsupportive for long-distance driving. All-around visibility is fine, and front seat entry/exit is easy. Knee and foot room in the rear seat area is above the class norm, helped by the flat floor. The supportive, well-contoured rear seat is wide enough for short-trip 3-adult comfort. Rear seat entry/exit is a bit constricted, but OK. Note that DVD entertainment is available for Tribute, but not Mariner or Escape. The generous cargo space is enhanced by a low-level load deck and convenient separate-opening tailgate glass. The rear seatbacks fold flat once the headrests are off and the seat bottoms are tilted up or removed. Cabin storage is OK in front, poor in the rear.

Value for the Money
Mariners are Best Buy compact SUVs: solid, spacious, practical, and pleasant to drive. Keen pricing makes them a high-value alternative to larger truck-based SUVs that use more gas and aren't much roomier. The Mariner had higher original sticker prices than its Ford and Mazda cousins, which mainly bought more-upscale trim, a little extra sound insulation, and a slightly more-compliant ride. Hybrids command an additional premium that may take years to offset in fuel savings, but the value consideration must also take into account the hybrid system's exhaust-emissions benefits.