Bill Pierre Ford

Mercury Mariner 2007 interiorly  having Woodgrain and metal accents highlight the two-tone interior. A floor-mounted gearshift lever with a satin-aluminum knob is installed.A keyless-entry keypad goes on the driver’s door, and the SUV’s aluminum wheels hold 16-inch tires. The Mariner has a fully independent suspension. Built on a 103.2-inch wheelbase like the Ford Escape, the Mariner is 174.9 inches long overall.

Five occupants fit inside the Mariner. The folding rear seat has a 60/40-split design, with three integrated three-point seat belts. Cargo capacity is 29.3 cubic feet with the rear seat up and 66.3 cubic feet when the cushion is removed.Premium leather seats in the Premier model have suede inserts and front-seat heating. A Reverse Sensing System is optional.

In the Convenience model, a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine produces 153 horsepower. The 3.0-liter V-6 generates 200 hp and 193 pounds-feet of torque in Luxury and Premier models. Both engines mate with a four-speed automatic transmission. Automatic intelligent four-wheel drive is available. A properly equipped V-6 Mariner can tow 3,500 pounds.

While considering safey side,Antilock brakes with brake assist are standard. Side-impact and side curtain airbags are optional.It will impress all by having its own styling touches, its Ford Escape foundation is largely hidden. Less sporty than the Escape, it maneuvers nicely and rides reasonably smoothly most of the time. Harsher pavement can roughen the ride, but control is seldom affected.

The easy-to-drive Mariner doesn’t feel quite as confident as the Escape. Acceleration from a standstill with the V-6 is surprisingly spirited; unless you push carefully on the gas pedal, this SUV might take off faster than you expect.

Automatic-transmission shifts are smooth and relaxed. Downshifts are prompt and smooth, but the V-6’s higher-speed acceleration is on the tame side.