2009 Mercury Mariner: Road Test
2009 Mercury Mariner ▼
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- MSRP: $22,650 - $31,840
- Invoice: $21,082 - $29,444
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Our road test for the 2009 Mercury Mariner includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Mercury Mariner from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Mercury Mariner, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Mercury Mariner help you decide if a 2009 Mercury Mariner is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| AWD Premier 4-cylinder | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.7 |
An AWD 4-cylinder is the only 2009 Mariner made available for testing so far. This engine with the new 6-speed automatic transmission provides better than expected acceleration, even with AWD. The transmission shifts smoothly and kicks down quickly for more power.
FUEL ECONOMY
| AWD Premier 4-cylinder | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5 |
In Consumer Guide testing, our extended-use AWD 4-cylinder Mariner averaged 23.2 mpg in mostly highway driving over its 4802-mile test. All models use regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| AWD Premier 4-cylinder | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.4 |
Mariner's ride is absorbent, with little impact harshness. Some float is noticeable at highway speeds, but it's not bothersome.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| AWD Premier 4-cylinder | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.8 |
Fine for a compact SUV and a surprise given the age of Mariner's basic platform. Body lean in turns is well controlled, though the steering feels overboosted and vague. Even with AWD, Mariner has a tidy turning radius, which helps in low-speed maneuvering.
QUIETNESS
| AWD Premier 4-cylinder | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.5 |
The 2.5-liter 4-cylinder is quite loud and unrefined under acceleration. It doesn't completely go away while cruising either. Wind and road noise are also present but are not objectionably loud.
CONTROLS
| AWD Premier 4-cylinder | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.2 |
The climate controls are simple to use. The available navigation system absorbs most audio functions. Some simple adjustments are needlessly complicated, requiring multiple button and/or touch screen presses. Steering-wheel audio controls and voice command via Ford's Sync system helps.
DETAILS
| AWD Premier 4-cylinder | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 5.1 |
Thoroughly unremarkable on the whole, Mariner's interior is awash in hard, hollow plastics. Two-tone decor helps improve things a bit. The overall ambiance is low-buck, a shame given Mariner's price and upscale aspiration. Our extended-use test vehicle had some misaligned trim on the front-passenger door.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| AWD Premier 4-cylinder | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.2 |
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 4-cylinder | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.3 |
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 4-cylinder | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 8.1 |
Generous space is enhanced by a low-level load deck and convenient opening tailgate glass. The rear seatbacks do not fold flat, however. Cabin small-item storage is plentiful and includes several console bins, as well as pockets in all four doors.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| AWD Premier 4-cylinder | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.8 |
The addition of more power and a smooth 6-speed automatic transmission goes some way in prolonging the life of this aged SUV. Engine noise and interior refinement are sore spots, as are sticker prices if options are not carefully chosen. Mariner remains a pleasant and likable compact SUV, but be sure to check out the competition as well.
Total Score
| AWD Premier 4-cylinder | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 59 | 61.1 |
Total Score: 59
Scores for all Compact Sport-utility Vehicles
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