2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid Review

The Mariner debuted for 2005 as a crossover SUV. Essentially a reskinned Ford Escape, the Mariner offers all the comfort and luxury you expect from a Mercury. The hybrid version debuted as a 2006 model. Featuring a full hybrid system, the Mariner can run up to 30 miles on electricity alone. The 2008 Mariner is all new; this is the first major change since its introduction.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Mercury Mariner Hybrid delivers comfort and style coupled with excellent fuel efficiency. In terms of miles per gallon, it beats just about everything else on the market, even gas-sipping Japanese imports. Top that off with top of the line safety features, and the Mariner Hybrid is a real winner.

What’s New For 2008:

The Mariner is all new for 2008. For the first time, the Mariner is available with either two-wheel or four-wheel drive. The exterior has been completely restyled. The interior has also been improved, being the first vehicle to offer a “top of dash” display, with gauges that pop out of the center console. The console can hold a laptop, along with plenty of storage space for other things. However, the chassis and powertrain are basically the same as the last generation’s.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Mariner earned 3 out of 5 stars in J.D. Power’s initial reliability survey. The new Mariner is too young for long-term information to be available. However, drivers in the past have complained of vehicle noise, failing transmissions, difficult steering, and engine stalling. The 2006 model was recalled for unlubricated wiper gears. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Loaded with safety features
+ Comfortable interior
+ Excellent gas mileage

Cons
– Four-wheel drive not standard
– No traction control
– Weak engine

Head-To-Head Competition:

The near-identical Ford Escape Hybrid costs $700 less and has slightly better gas mileage, but lacks a CD changer. The Honda CR-V features standard traction control, AWD, leather seats, a moonroof, and more horsepower, but gets ten fewer miles to the gallon. The Toyota Highlander comes with traction control, third-row seating, more payload capacity, and more horsepower, but lacks the Mariner’s CD changer and gets ten fewer miles to the gallon.

What Others Are Saying:

“The Mariner Hybrid delivers acceleration that’s equivalent to the conventional V6-powered Mariner, but with fuel economy that should be better than that of the base four-cylinder model.” – Forbes

“Although it commands a premium over the Tribute and Escape, the Mariner’s higher level of content, distinctive styling, and generally more upscale ambiance may be worth it to some shoppers who value the perceived status of the Mercury brand.” – Car and Driver

“I found the Mariner’s cabin to be exceptionally pleasant.” – About.com

Read more about the 2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid at the Mercury manufacturer web site.