2010 Mercury Mariner Review

The powerful 2.5L DOHC Duratec I4 engine of the 2010 Mercury Mainer whips up 171 horses at 6000 RPM. It sends its power through a 6-speed automatic transmission to achieve 171 lb-ft of torque at 4500 RPM and 21/28 mpg city/highway(20/26 for base 4WD trims). Step the power up by choosing the available 3.0L DOHC Duratec 240hp V6. Torque ratings with this powertrain option increase to 223 lb-ft. When properly equipped, the V6 Mariner will pull up to 3500 pounds behind it and still deliver an EPA-estimated 19/25 mpg city/highway on front wheel driven models (18/23 mpg on 4WD V6 trims). Both engine choices are E85 Flex-Fuel compatible.

Don't forget that the 2010 Mariner from Mercury is available as a class-leading hybrid SUV as well. In fact, it's rated as the most fuel efficient SUV in its class. It makes highly efficient use of a 2.5L I4 gasoline engine with 16 valves and a permanent magnet electric motor to generate 177 net horses and a 136 lb-ft torque rating. There's also a full-color hybrid energy flow monitor system that keeps the driver informed about real-time hybird system performance levels. When you come to a total stop, the gasoline engine shuts down. The electric motor is then used to achieve initial acceleration, saving loads of fuel. Regenerative braking is used to keep the nickle-metal hydride battery system charged with no need for plugging in. The hybrid Mariner 2010 delivers a hugely impressive 34/31 mpg city/highway.

Cool, convenient features of the Mariner Mercury 2010 include the innovative Easy Fuel capless fueling filler, eliminating the need to handle messy, smelly traditional fuel caps. When the fueling nozzle is removed, the opening automatically seals tight. And of course, the access is lockable. There's also roof racks, loads of wheel choices and plenty more in the way of customization. You be impressed with standard and optional features including:

• Heated, powered side mirrors;
• Automatic headlamps;
• Rear view camera;
• Parking assistance technologies;
• SYNC In-Car Connectivity;
• Dual headrest DVD entertainment;
• Voice activated navigation;
• Awesome ambient lighting;
• USB ports and electric power plug ins;
• Many, many more...

The Mercury Mariner for 2010 is designed for ultra-safe transport; nothing is forgotten in terms of standard and optional safety features. The Mariner was a 2009 IIHS Top Safety Pick as well as a double 5-star earner from the NHTSA. For 2010, standard safety features include, but are in no way limited to:

• Side curtain airbags in both seating rows;
• Rollover sensors;
• Crumple-zone construction standards;
• Mercury MyKey system;
• LATCH child tethers and anchors;
• Intelligent 4WD system;
• 4-wheel antilock braking;

Retail pricing for the 2010 Mercury Mariner ranges affordably from $23,565 - $27,385. It's a surprisingly technological and very safe SUV that's been expertly honed to provide fun, dependable family transportation. Enjoy exploring!