Home » Car Reviews » Mercury » Mariner » 2005 Mercury Mariner Compact Sport Utility Vehicle

2005 Mercury Mariner Compact Sport Utility Vehicle

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Mercury Mariner is an Escape in wolf's clothing

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Other than the subtle styling changes, what really sets the Mariner apart from the Escape is the way it's packaged with equipment. The base model, called the Convenience version ($21,405), has all the luxury basics, like power mirrors, power windows and locks, keyless entry, cruise control, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Step up to the Luxury package ($22,905), and you get a V6 engine, power driver's seat, six-disc CD changer, alarm, automatic headlamps, and a few other goodies.

The top-of-the-line package, called Premier ($24,655), adds 16-inch wheels, heated mirrors, an upgraded stereo, automatic headlamps, and power heated seats.

Options include four-wheel drive (which adds nearly $2,000, depending on the package), a reverse sensing system, and side curtain air bags.

Compared to a well-equipped Escape, that's not a bad deal at all. People who want an entry-level SUV will have to go with the Escape, but those looking for more options and better equipment should drive both the Escape and the Mariner to see which suits their needs -- and budget -- best.

Pros: If you're looking for a well-equipped, compact SUV, you'd be smart to stop at a Mercury dealership to drive a Mariner. It has all the Ford Escape's best attributes -- smooth ride, quiet cabin and tough style -- in a slightly different package.

Cons: No matter how many badges and how much chrome Mercury tacks on this SUV, it's still just an Escape.

Ratings (1-10)

  • Style: 9
  • Performance: 7
  • Price: 9
  • Handling: 7
  • Ride: 8
  • Comfort: 8
  • Quality: 7
  • Overall: 8

More Data

Where Built: USA

Major Options: Dynamic side impact airbag package, Comfort package, Enhancement package, Class II trailer tow package. Rear-obstacle-detection system, Power sunroof, Leather upholstery, Rear privacy glass, Roof rack, Running boards, Full-size spare tire.

Seating: 5.

Number of Rows: 2.

Length in Inches: 174.3

Warrantees: 3 years/36,000 miles Bumper to bumper, 5 years/unlimited miles Corrosion protection, 3 years/36,000 miles Roadside assistance.

Weight in Pounds: 3285 lbs. â€' 3520 lbs.

Cargo Capacity in Pounds: Not available.

Gross Maximum Vehicle Weight in Pounds: 4360 lbs. â€' 4600 lbs.

Towing Capacity in Pounds: 1500 lbs. â€' 3500 lbs.

Gas Tank Capacity in Gallons: 16.5

Destination Charge: $615

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