2008 Mercury Mariner: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2008 Mercury Mariner is updated, getting revised interior and exterior styling along with a higher level of standard equipment. This compact SUV continues to share its basic design with the Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute. The '08 models are virtually the same size as the 2005-2007 versions and offer the same interior room and powertrains. Mariner remains a five-passenger, 4-door wagon with a liftgate with opening glass. Base 4-cylinder models have 153 hp. Base V6 and Premier versions have a 200-hp V6. Both engines come only with an automatic transmission. Also offered is a Hybrid model that team a 4-cylinder gas engine with a battery-powered electric motor. It requires no plug-in charging. Hybrids have a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Non-Hybrid Mariners have a maximum towing capacity of 3500 lb; Hybrids are rated to tow up to 1000 lb. All Mariners are available with front-wheel drive or with all-wheel drive. Available safety features include curtain side airbags, front side airbags, ABS, traction control, and antiskid system. Also available are leather upholstery, heated front seats, rear obstacle detection, and a navigation system.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Among utility vehicles, Compact SUVs are typically the least costly and offer the best fuel economy. Most utilize a car-type chassis and are not designed for heavy-duty, off-road use. Nearly all are five-passenger vehicles; some offer seating for seven.

Our Best Buys are the Honda CR-V and Suzuki Grand Vitara. Our Recommended picks are the Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Saturn Vue, and Toyota RAV4.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Jeep Liberty, Mazda Tribute, Nissan Rogue, and Saturn Vue.