2008 Mercury Mariner-Hybrid Safety Review
Based on analysis of 11 Mariner-Hybrid reviews and test drives.
Safety - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Mercury Mariner has performed well in government crash tests, leading to an excellent score for safety.
In government crash tests, the Mercury Mariner Hybrid earned four out of 5 stars for driver protection in front crash tests and 5 out of 5 stars for passenger protection (though early releases of the model get only 3 stars for driver safety). In side impact tests, the Mariner Hybrid earned 5 out of 5 stars from front and backseat protection. Though the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has not tested hybrid Mariner models, conventional Mariners perform well in crash tests. The compact SUV earned an "acceptable" (the second-highest score) in frontal crash tests and a "good" (the highest score) for side impact crash tests from the IIHS when equipped with side air bags. When not equipped with side air bags, the conventional Mariner earned a "poor" (the lowest) rating in side impact crash tests from the IIHS.
Accident Avoidance
Anti-lock brakes with brake force distribution, and a tire pressure monitoring system, which warns the driver of under-inflated tires, are standard. Rear obstacle detection is optional equipment on Mariner Hybrid models.
Crash Protection
The 2008 Mariner offers next generation air bags for both front-seat passengers, which inflate at differing speeds for different impacts. These lack the occupant positioning sensors that newer competitors are beginning to offer. Head curtain air bags protecting both rows of seating, designed to remain open during a rollover. Ford's new head curtain system is designed to slide between the window glass and passengers even if the passenger is leaning their head against the window. Torso-protecting side air bags for front seat passengers are now standard equipment. Front seat belts include pretensioners.