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Introduction
Mercury Mariner Hybrid - 2006 Preview: Mercury's new 2006 Mariner Hybrid is what most people would consider to be a "no-brainer." Fundamentally identical to the Ford Escape, which is available with a gasoline-electric full-hybrid propulsion system that sips fuel like a four-cylinder but powers around town like a V6, the Mercury Mariner makes perfect sense as the next candidate for Ford Motor Company's new hybrid technology.
What It Looks Like
Because the two vehicles are identical except for minor trim differences, the 2006 Mercury Mariner Hybrid boasts the same high fuel economy, driving range, and clean emissions ratings as the Ford Escape Hybrid. Estimated to achieve 33-mpg in the city and 29-mpg on the highway (city estimates are higher because, as a full hybrid vehicle, this SUV can operate solely on battery power at lower speeds), the 2006 Mercury Mariner Hybrid meets California's Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle standards.
What's Under the Hood
To create this full-hybrid propulsion system, a 2.3-liter inline four-cylinder engine is matched with two AC electric motors powered by 250 D-size nickel-metal hydride batteries located in a pack that is mounted beneath the cargo floor. This combination results in the equivalent of 155 horsepower, and a regenerative four-wheel-disc braking system automatically recharges the Mariner Hybrid's batteries. A continuously variable transmission helps to optimize fuel economy and acceleration, sending power to all four of the 2006 Mercury Mariner Hybrid's 16-inch, five-spoke alloy wheels. A light foot on the throttle and speeds of less than 25 mph result in electric-only motoring, conserving fuel and helping to boost city fuel economy figures.
What's Inside
Choosing between a 2006 Mercury Mariner Hybrid and a Ford Escape Hybrid comes down to styling. The Mercury gets a liberal coating of satin-finish trim inside and out, along with a two-tone interior color scheme and fake Sapele wood trim on the dashboard. If you like the more upscale appearance of the Mariner Hybrid, expect to pay a little more than the Ford, putting the Mercury into the low $30,000 range.
Why It Matters
That's plenty of coin for a compact SUV, especially when it can take half a decade to recoup that initial investment at the gas pump. The bigger benefit is ultra-low emissions from a vehicle designed to carry plenty of people and their stuff through storms and on light-duty dirt trails. If you want to be green but need lots of space, the 2006 Mercury Mariner Hybrid fills the bill.
By Christian Wardlaw
Photos Credit: Ford Motor Company
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