The
2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid gives small SUV buyers the same versatility as a non-hybrid variant, but with much improved fuel economy and a significantly lower impact on the environment.
For example, a front-wheel drive, four-cylinder powered non-hybrid Mariner gets a combined 22 mpg. Its hybrid counterpart delivers an impressive combined 32 mpg. As a result, the hybrid version will average slightly more than 100 miles extra driving on a tank of fuel.
There's more. According to the EPA's Air Pollution Score, the Mariner Hybrid scored an "8" on a scale of 0 - 10 ("10" being the best) while the non-hybrid Mariner scored a "6."
You see, you can feel good about owning and driving a SUV like the 2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid, which was first introduced in 2006 and was previously only available as an AWD model.
For 2008, Mercury now offers a less expensive FWD model that features a single electric motor/generator while AWD models add a rear-mounted motor for additional traction when needed.
Additionally, the 2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid, like its non-hybrid counterpart, features a redesigned interior and exterior to make it more appealing.
Mariner Hybrid engineers also made revisions to software in the control system to improve transparency, or the transition between gasoline and electric operation in the 2008 model.
The transition from all-electric to gasoline power to a combination of the two is now more seamless to the driver. Configured as a "full hybrid," Mariner's powertrain is able to propel the SUV to 25 mph solely with electric power.
When the vehicle's 2.3-liter, 133 horsepower gasoline engine isn't needed - during coasting, at stoplights or crawling at low speeds through traffic - it automatically shuts down to conserve fuel and curb emissions.
While it may take a little time to get used to the slightly quirky feel of a hybrid powertrain, you'll quickly enjoy the less frequent trips to the gas station.
Like other hybrids, the Mariner Hybrid delivers slightly better fuel economy in the city than on the highway because both the gas engine and electric motor are in operation on the highway.
The Mariner Hybrid's fuel economy is better in the city because the gas engine automatically turns off when stopped. It doesn't restart until a speed of 25 mph if you're light on the throttle.
When accelerating under full electric power, the Mariner Hybrid does do well at keeping up with traffic. There's also no need to plug-in the Mariner Hybrid as it automatically recharges its battery pack while driving via the gasoline engine and regenerative braking technology.
With regenerative braking, the electric motor becomes a generator during braking; this helps slow the vehicle down while also charging the battery pack.
Inside, the 2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid feels more refined. I like the Ice Blue backlighting that's easy on the eyes at night and the center stack around the radio and climate control looks classier.
The optional navigation system is now DVD-based and thankfully offers touch screen control. It's not only more user-friendly than the previous version, but its display is now top-rate.
There's also a screen that allows the driver to monitor the Hybrid System's Energy sources as well as instant and average fuel economy.
My 2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid FWD tester was pretty well-equipped (Moon & Tune Package, $995 and Premium Package, $3,395), sending its price tag more than $30K. Without options, though, you can land one for around $26K.
Compared to other small hybrid SUVs, the Mariner Hybrid is a good choice. Its comfortable cabin, pleasing road manners and high level of refinement are appreciable.
2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid Engine: 2.3-liter (155 hp combined) I-4 and 70-kilowatt electric motor
Transmission: CVT
Drive type: FWD
Fuel economy: 34 city/30 highway
Base price: $25,765
As tested: $31,000 (including $665 for destination)
Web site: www.mercuryvehicles.com