2008 Mercury Mariner revealed

In a late-night, clandestine move, Mercury released details and images of a thoroughly redesigned Mariner, which will go on sale in early 2007 as a 2008 model. Ford's mid-market marque has decided that the 2005 model was in need of an update to keep up with the Joneses (i.e. other small soft-roaders). The entry-level SUV, or CUV depending on your perspective, is intended to mark a major shift for Mercury's approach to design and technology.

On the aesthetics side, the Mariner's front fascia takes the brunt of the redesign, with the trademark 'waterfall' grill gaining more prominence, both in length and width. The headlamps also grow significantly in every dimension, gaining 'eyebrows' that integrate and define the newly creased hood. Altogether, the redesigned front end has more tautly drawn lines and a more upright posture that provides the Mariner with a defined road presence that will be advantageous when you flash the high beams on someone crawling along in the left lane.

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BimmerFan - 10/6/2006 11:06:55 AM

+1 Boost

I personally dont see a "thoroughly redesign Mariner" here. Looks like the same bland SUV here. Nothing special. Move on, folks.

neutral - 10/6/2006 12:39:52 PM

+1 Boost

BimmerFan, did you actually read the article? Judging from your name (which contrains the string "Bimmer") I am assuming you are comparing this Mercury to a BMW. From this press report, I am very impressed about the improvements made. I would suggest that Ford/Mercury improve the look of the center console and spruce up the instrument cluster gauges (prominent crome lined circles). I would also like to see Ford/Mercury raise the power ratings a little bit (from the same engines, nothing bigger). Other than that, I like this car, especially the hybrid.

Mark - 10/6/2006 1:04:42 PM

+1 Boost

The power needs to go up on both sides, especially the torque. And the center stack is really messed up...no spot for a NAV, way too many buttons.

neutral - 10/6/2006 1:12:16 PM

+1 Boost

Mark,

I agree about the center console. Ford should split the climate controls and the audio controls.

OBSERVER1984 - 10/6/2006 1:24:38 PM

+1 Boost

New Ford's product got some good ideas but they are still too american.

bubbahotep - 10/6/2006 2:03:48 PM

+1 Boost

This article isn't worth reading...The picture says it all. I'm with Bimmer, looks the same to me...

S4cabriofox - 10/6/2006 10:50:47 PM

+1 Boost

It looks more like a gussied-up Explorer, at least from the headlights, than a new Mariner.

Center console is very odd and not even retro-ugly; just weird.

mac075 - 10/8/2006 12:19:26 AM

+1 Boost

I actually drive an '05 Mariner currently and will be the first person to get the new redesigned version. Despite criticism and opinions to the contrary, the new '08 Mariner is quite an improvement. I have so many little minor complains about the current car, but it is also the cheapest car I've ever leased (ONLY $200/month - sticker of almost $23k) and after years of wasting triple the amount of money per month on a mere vehecle, I've realized that there are more important things to spend my money on. I really like the new "ICE BLUE" backlighting for the instrument clusters.... and the center console might be ugly, but my current one is hideous. Also, there's an A/C button!!! That is the most annoying thing about the current Mariner.... you cannot control the location of the A/C air, just on or off.... Well - just thought I'd give some input from someone who already is used to the soon-to-be-old Mariner and who can't wait for the very new and ZEN 2008 version!