Mercury Mariner Model Years and History

Last year, the Mercury Mariner received a wealth of safety, technological and comfort upgrades, but for 2011 the small SUV gets no substantial changes.

The 2010 Mercury Mariner gets a wealth of new safety equipment, including the new optional Active Park Assist system, which uses sensors on the front and rear of the vehicle, and works in conjunction with Electric Power Assist Steering, to guide the vehicle into a parking space. SYNC, for help with traffic, directions and information, is also available for the model year. Also new for 2010 are Integrated Spotter Mirrors, which include an outside rearview mirror and a secondary convex spotter in the top outer corner, aimed at the driver's blind spot. An available Rear View Camera system uses an exterior camera embedded in the rear of the vehicle. Those images appear in the rearview mirror or the navigation system screen, if equipped, to help enhance visibility directly behind the vehicle when it is in reverse. MyKey, a programmable vehicle key exclusive to Ford, will be available on all trims. It allows parents to program the vehicle so that when a minor is driving, top speeds are limited to 80 mph, an alarm rings at speeds of 45, 55 or 65 mph, the audio system goes mute until the safety belt is buckled, and volume can be limited to 44 percent of maximum volume. It can also activate a persistent Belt-Minder chime and a traction control system that limits tire spin and cannot be deactivated.

After a rather extensive redesign for 2008, the Mercury Mariner gets several significant mechanical improvements for 2009, including a new 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission that help the standard Mariner be both more powerful and more fuel-efficient. The optional V-6 also gets a 20-percent boost in power and improved fuel economy for 2009, and the Hybrid model gets a new Atkinson-cycle version of the four-cylinder engine to pair with its hybrid-electric system, which has been retuned for smoother operation. Along with the revised powertrains, aerodynamic improvements and low-rolling-resistance tires also contribute to efficiency. Also this year Mariner gets a new rear stabilizer bar and its suspension has been revised for improved ride and handling; the steering and braking systems have also been retuned for better responsiveness. Other features introduced for 2009 include a new capless Easy Fuel system, new ambient lighting, and redesigned seats with an eco-friendly seat fabric. Cruise control is now standard on all models. Additionally, a new Mariner Limited Hybrid model brings more luxury features to the most fuel-efficient model in the lineup.

For 2008, the Mercury Mariner has been redesigned outside and in. Exterior sheet metal carries bolder lines with a more distinctive grille and headlight treatment, as well as stronger wheel well arches. Inside, the passenger cabin is more pleasing visually, as well as more user-friendly and thoughtfully laid out. Nothing of the Mariner's underpinnings has been changed, though trim names have. Gone are the Convenience and Luxury monikers of last year, replaced by names directly reflective of the engines underneath--I4 and V6, respectively. Only the Premier name remains. The Mariner Hybrid adds a less expensive front-wheel-drive model to its popular all-wheel-drive model. Prices across the model range have changed little, though the top-line Premier models are now more than $1,000 cheaper than the cars they replace.

For Mercury's 2007 Mariner, the top Premier model has expanded standard features, including side air bags and Safety Canopy side-curtain bags. The side bag systems remain optional on other models. Three new colors are available: Dune Pearl Clearcoat Metallic, Light Sage Clearcoat Metallic, and Tungsten Grey Clearcoat Metallic.