2008 Mercury Mariner
Based on analysis of 11 Mariner reviews and test drives.
Mercury Mariner Ranks #23 in Affordable Compact SUVs
Overall Score - 6.6 (Mediocre)
Based on U.S. News editors' analysis of 11 leading automotive reviews and test drives, the 2008 Mercury Mariner ranks #23 of 26 in Affordable Compact SUVs.
The Mariner offers elegant, well-regarded exterior style and an attractive interior, but its aging powertrain can't match the performance of most of its competition, leaving it with a ranking near the bottom of its class.
Reviewers agree the 2008 Mercury Mariner is a small SUV distinguished by its conservatively elegant styling and good interior comfort, but lagging behind the competition in most facets of performance. The Car Connection says: "To the optimist, the new Mariner looks to be a step in the right direction. To the pessimist, the Mariner is what a cash-strapped team could do with a rebadged compact SUV introduced in 2001. Regardless of your take on the situation, the realist asks, 'Is it enough?'"
For 2008, the Mariner's body and interior have been redesigned and significantly improved. Most reviewers are happy to see the plastic body-side cladding removed and impressed with the versatile storage features and attractive cabin of the new interior. However, the Mariner's powertrain is largely carried over from the original 2005 design -- and it was an average performer even then.
The Mariner comes in two trims -- the base model and the Premier, which adds several features. It is also available as a hybrid model, which is reviewed separately.
Mariner Performance - 7.3 (Good)
The 2008 Mercury Mariner strikes most reviewers as, at best, an aging middle-of-the-pack performer in a competitive class. AutoWeek says: "Merging on to the freeway, I just didn't feel like there was enough power available. I had the throttle to the floor and the engine buzz had me thinking this had a four-cylinder underhood, even though I knew that wasn't likely." Still, the Mariner ranks in the top half of its class for performance, a few slots above its hybrid counterpart. Continue with our full Performance Review to learn why the Mariner's brakes are particularly disappointing to test drivers. continue
Mariner Exterior - 7.7 (Good)
The 2008 Mercury Mariner retains the some of the classic lines Ford-derived SUVs have been wearing since the early 90's, but with subtle new elements and a huge, bright chrome waterfall grill that has become Mercury's signature. Consequently, the Mariner ranks in the top half of its class for exterior styling, one spot below the hybrid model. The cladding of the former model has been removed, thankfully, for a cleaner look, though brightwork was added in equal measure," says Car and Driver. Continue with our full Exterior Review to learn how the Mariner's two exterior trims differ, or check out our Photo Gallery. continue
Mariner Interior - 7.3 (Good)
The cabin of the 2008 Mercury Mariner generally impresses reviewers with its attractive, two-tone look and well-thought-out storage features, giving it a ranking in the top half of its class. "It looks good, it's functional and convenient, and it points to a good new direction for Mercury," says The Auto Channel of the cabin. Continue with our Interior Review to learn whether the Premier's upgraded sound system is worth the money, or check out our interior photos. continue
Mariner Safety - 8.8 (Very Good)
The 2008 Mercury Mariner has performed moderately well in government crash tests. For this model year, Mercury has improved the Mariner's ability to avoid an accident by adding a traction control system and making all crash protection features standard equipment. Continue with our full Safety Review to learn what air bag feature the Mariner is missing. continue
Mariner Reliability - 5.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Mercury Mariner reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Mercury supports the Mariner with a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. Continue with our full Reliability Review. continue
