Mercury Mariner Hybrid

Introduction

The mercury mariner Hybrid is a compact SUV with great fuel economy, making it the best choice to consider for anyone who requires the utility of SUV at relatively reasonable price. First launched in the year 2006, it is factually a splendid Ford Escape Hybrid. The model is the second variation of the hybrid trio, amid it, the Mazda Tribute Hybrid and the Escape Hybrid that is sold by the Mazda in early 2006.

What’s new?

The latest Mercury mariner Hybrid version is pretty much unchanged when compared to its previous versions; however the additional feature it includes is the presence of HD radio to the vehicle’s optional navigation system.

Albeit, always intended to be more classy companions to their Ford counterparts, however most of the Mercury vehicle models of past 3 decades have been bit more than those of Fords with different badges, grilles and even taillights. Frankly, the brand Mercury has been discontinued because of the dearth of sales with its 2011 being the last model year for the cars.

Features

Undeniably, the 2011 Mariner Hybrid is vitally a 2011 model Ford Escape Hybrid. It shares its antecedent’s weaknesses as well as strengths. Its strengths are exceptional fuel economy and also the availability for few high-end features which are not included in the most of the rivals, like the nifty automated and parallel parking assistance system, sync voice-activated amazing multimedia system and lots more.

The model includes few of the downsides such as the less agile handling when compared with its non-hybrid siblings, unsatisfactory braking performance and interior which is lacking few convenience features. Moreover, the Mariner Hybrid costs bit more than the conventionally powered Mariner model.

Options and packages

The mercury Mariner Hybrid is the compact crossover sport utility vehicle with either all-wheel or front-wheel drive. The standard features included in this model are 16 inch robust alloy wheels, full power accessories, outside mirror with essential integrated blind-spot mirror, automatic climate control, cruise control, driver seat with power-adjustable feature, wood-grain interior trim, sync electronics interface, Mykey parental settings, satellite radio, 4 speaker audio system along with CD player, steering wheel controls and auxiliary audio jack.

The leather package of Mercury Mariner Hybrid adds leather upholstery, driver’s efficiently adjustable lumbar support, heated front seats, and ambient lighting. With Hybrid premium package you will get the leather package along with the other imperative features such as heated side mirrors, rear parking sensors, hybrid system graphics, 7 speaker stereo system, and navigation system with advanced features such as HD radio, Sirius Travel link, and real-time traffic. Stand-alone options mainly include the remote engine start, sunroof, and the Auto parking system.

Under the hood

This Mercury Mariner Hybrid is driven by the four cylinder 2.5 liter gasoline engine and also with an electric generator/motor; Combine together they tend to produce 177 hp. Power is sent continually through the variable transmission which offers impeccable transmissions amid electric and gas modes. The all-wheel-drive sort of models comes with extra electric motor in order to power the vehicles rear wheels when further traction or acceleration in required.

Fuel economy

The 0 to 60 mph acceleration of the model is estimated for around 9 seconds and thus making it comparable with the faster 4 cylinder gas entries in the segment. As per the estimates of EPA the fuel economy of the front-wheel-drive Hybrid makes it the best crossover SUV with 31mpg is the highway and 34 mpg in the city and in combined driving it offers about 32 mpg. On the other hand, the all-wheel-drive version of this model is rated with a fuel economy of 27/30/29 mpg.

Safety and technology

The latest Mercury Mariner Hybrid model comes with essential standard features such as stability control, antilock brakes, side curtain airbags along with rollover sensors, side airbags for front-seat and more. Additionally, standard is the newest MyKey feature that lets parents to program the limits of the speed as well as the stereo volume of the vehicle. The model has scored highest safety ratings and technologically is smartly designed as well. 

Interior design

The Mercury Mariner Hybrid’s performance cabin is pleasingly functional space; it also comes with huge center console along with detachable bins. Satin-finish amazing metallic accents and the leather upholstery impart premium sheen.  But, the Mariner is slightly lack behind when it comes to space and comfort. Upfront, the models seating position feels somewhat upright and even truck like and moreover there is no any telescoping steering wheel that makes the driver feel bit uncomfortable.

The rear seat is flat and it offers neither after nor forward adjustability nor a recline function. Also, folding seatback down is literally a pain, needing the headrests to be detached and even the bottom cushions needs to be tumbled forward, the consequence of providing a flat load floor. The Hybrid’s cargo volume stands out at a helpful 29 cubic feet along with the rear seat in its place and when the seat is folded 66 cubic feet is available.

Review

Most of the enthusiast drivers fascinated in hybrid vehicles tend to expect lowered vehicle performance when compared with their conventionally powered counterparts; however the Mariner Hybrid must gratify most drivers. Under tough acceleration, the Hybrid surprisingly feels sprightly, even though engine could get rather noisy. As per the reviews, the ride quality of this specific model by Mercury is fine. However the 300 extra pounds from the batteries and hybrid powertrain tend to enhance somebody roll and reduce few of the SUV crossover’s agility. Albeit, braking distances are low, the brake pedal comprises a solid feel to it when the driver gets utilized to its somewhat touchy action. Some of the notable features of Mariner hybrid include usable electric power system, good gas mileage, acceptable highway acceleration, quiet ride and most essentially it is available relatively at affordable price. Ultimately, it can be stated that this compact SUV is worth the price and consists of several amazing features making it one among the top SUV in recent years.