New 2010 Mercury Mariner Hybrid

The planets aligned to save Earth and have chosen Mercury as their leader. Leading troops into the green battle is the 2010 Mercury Mariner Hybrid, which offers comfortable utility and an eco-friendly powertrain in a small package.

Our fearless leader’s hybrid powertrain consists of a 153-horsepower, 2.5-liter inline-four-cylinder engine mated to a 94-horsepower electric motor and a continuously variable transmission. Power is sent to either two or four wheels, and regenerative braking helps recharge the nickel-metal hydride battery pack. The Mariner Hybrid offers up to 34 city and 31 highway mpg, just like its cousin the Escape Hybrid. For comparison, the Saturn VUE Hybrid delivers significantly lower city mileage and comparable highway mileage. The Mariner Hybrid is a well-decorated eco-warrior; on its wall at home are Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV II) and Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV) awards. And because Mercury is Ford’s upscale cousin, you can be sure that the operation of the hybrid powertrain will be silky smooth.

While in eco-battle, the 2010 Mercury Mariner Hybrid pulls no punches in delivering a quality, comfortable interior. Premium cloth seats are the base material, with quality leather available. Under the seat skins lies soy-based seat foam; this is more environmentally friendly than petroleum-based foam. In the dash, Sirius Satellite Radio and an optional 6-CD changer sound out the battle cry. Directing the driver into battle is an optional navigation system, as well as Ford’s SYNC® information system – which offers directions as well as traffic, business, sports and weather reports.

When ramming speed is reached (or if you are just trying to park), optional front and rear parking sensors alert the driver of impending contact. If you are parallel parking, these sensors team with the electric power steering and Ford’s Active Park Assist system to steer the Mariner Hybrid into a spot, while the driver operates the gas, brake, and gear selector.

Safety is always a key in battle, and the 2010 Mercury Mariner Hybrid delivers with Five-Star front and side impact ratings, due to its sturdy structure and full suite of airbags. Antilock brakes, traction and stability controls all come standard.

The battle to save planet earth is well underway, and you need the right equipment before engaging in mobile combat. With the 2010 Mercury Mariner Hybrid, you will be well suited to engage, yet enjoy a smooth, comfortable, well-priced ride.