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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