2006 Mercury Mariner Road Test Ratings

An upgraded interior makes the Mariner more desirable than its Ford Escape twin.

Chassis tuning is competent, but steering is somewhat detached. Engine power is only average.

Slightly firm ride, excessive wind, road, and engine noise.

Familiar Ford-family interior layout, but does not set itself apart from the competiton.

The exterior design is somewhat dated, the interior looks functional, but suffers from a plasticky look, and stalks and buttons have marginal tactile feel. Some materials seem to be of a higher grade than the Escape.