The Mercury Mariner is a Ford Escape with more stylish appointments and only minor differences equipment. Mariner offers a combination of nimble handling, comfortable ride, and an optional 3.0L V-6 for decent performance. The Mariner also offers a hybrid powertrain model. By alternately running off batteries and the gasoline engine, the Mariner Hybrid boasts a 36 mpg rating in city driving.

What Changed:

The 2008 Mariner features updated styling inside and out. The most notable changes are to the front and rear fascias. Most notably, the front end features a larger waterfall-style grille and more prominent powerdome on the hood. Outside of a new electric power steering system, the chassis and powertrains are largely the same.