2010 Mercury Mariner Review

Overview

The 2010 Mercury Mariner is a well-equipped, compact SUV with a unique and modern styling and a host of high-tech features. The Mariner enters into 2010 mainly as a carryover from 2009 with minimal changes. It gets a standard satellite radio, and SYNC-equipped models without navigation come with a communications system that includes 911 assist, traffic reports and turn-by-turn driving directions now. The new standard MyKey system allows parents to limit speed and audio volume for their teen drivers. A back-up camera and an Auto Park feature that steers the car during parallel parking are also available.

Power and performance

The front- or all-wheel driven 2010 Mercury Mariner's base 2.5-liter inline-4 engine generates 171 hp and 171 pound-feet of torque, while the high end 3.0-liter V6 pumps out 240 hp and 223 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with six-speed automatic transmissions. The V6 Mariner models can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. The front-wheel driven I4 models check in at 20 miles per gallon city and 28 mpg highway (19/25 for AWD models) and front-wheel-drive V6 models deliver 18 mpg city and 26 highway (17/24 for AWD models).

Body and styling

The base I4 Mariner includes the standard with 16-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass, full power accessories, fog lights, air-conditioning, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls and a four-speaker CD stereo with an auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio. The V6 comes with base I4's all standard equipment and the 3.0-liter V6 engine. The Premier I4 gets rear parking sensors, a power driver seat, ambient interior lighting, heated front seats, leather upholstery (Alcantara inserts are a no-cost option), a six-speaker stereo, SYNC , and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. The Premier V6 model pairs the Premier I4's standard content with the six-cylinder engine. A number of comfort and convenience options are available.

Safety Features

Tire pressure monitoring system; Personal Safety System; front passenger sensing system; Belt-Minder System; safety belt pretensioners; fog lamps; AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control; child safety rear door locks; LATCH; SecuriCode keyless entry keypad on driver?s door and SecuriLock Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) are the main safety features of the 2010 Mercury Mariner.