2008 Mercury Mariner: Road Test
2008 Mercury Mariner ▼
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- MSRP: $21,300 - $29,090
- Invoice: $20,131 - $27,298
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Our road test for the 2008 Mercury Mariner includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Mercury Mariner from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Mercury Mariner, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Mercury Mariner help you decide if a 2008 Mercury Mariner is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| AWD Premier | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.6 |
All 2008 Mariners have the same powertrains as their 2005-2007 predecessors. V6 models have adequate acceleration from a stop and can struggle in highway passing and merging situations. Mariner's automatic transmission is generally smooth but sometimes hesitates to downshift for passing. We've not had the opportunity to evaluate a Mariner Hybrid, but a similar Escape Hybrid proved strong enough to cope with traffic, while its hybrid drivetrain operated with little intrusion.
FUEL ECONOMY
| AWD Premier | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 5 |
No opportunity to measure. A similar front-wheel-drive V6 Escape averaged a bottom-of-the-class 17.6 mpg in Consumer Guide testing. A test Escape Hybrid averaged a thrifty 31.2 mpg. All Escapes and Mariners use regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| AWD Premier | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5 |
Compared to Escape, Mariners have slightly softer suspension tuning. The ride is thus a tad more absorbent, with less impact harshness. The tradeoff is a bit more float over high-speed dips and swells, though it's not severe.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| AWD Premier | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.8 |
As pleasant and poised on-road as Escape, with moderate cornering lean, good balance, and firm, direct steering. Braking control is good, but some testers say panic stops induce too much nosedive.
QUIETNESS
| AWD Premier | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 4.6 |
Engines sound coarse and unrefined at high rpm--Hybrid included. Though wind noise rises quickly above 55 mph, road noise is kept well in check.
CONTROLS
| AWD Premier | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6 |
Most controls are handy and logically placed, though some may find the audio system mounted a bit low for easy access.
DETAILS
| AWD Premier | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.9 |
Sadly, Mariner's interior materials move from the previous-generation's classy faux chrome, aluminum, and woodgrain accents to unconvincing budget-grade plastics.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| AWD Premier | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6 |
Adult-size headroom and legroom, but the optional sunroof trims head clearance a bit for tall occupants. Seats are supportive and nicely shaped. Fine all-around visibility.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| AWD Premier | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 4.9 |
Knee clearance and foot space are well above the class norm, helped by a flat floor. The supportive and well-contoured seat is wide enough for short-trip three-adult comfort. Entry and exit are constricted somewhat by smallish door openings.
CARGO ROOM
| AWD Premier | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 8 |
Generous space is enhanced by a low-level load deck and convenient opening tailgate glass. Rear seatbacks fold flat once headrests are removed and the seat bottoms are adjusted. Cabin small-item storage is only average.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| AWD Premier | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.9 |
Despite slightly higher base prices, Mariner offers little of substance over its Ford Escape cousin. The extra dollars bring only modestly upscale trim, a little extra sound insulation, and a more compliant ride. These compact SUVs are likable enough, but be sure to shop the competition first.
Total Score
| AWD Premier | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 61 | 59.7 |
Total Score: 61
Scores for all Compact Sport-utility Vehicles
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