Whats New for the 2005 Mercury Mariner?
With Ford pinning Mercury’s chances at survival on badge-engineering, it comes as no surprise to learn that the 2005 Mariner is a thinly-veiled version of the Ford Escape. That’s fine, because the Escape is a fundamentally appealing vehicle, offering a compelling blend of space, style, and performance.Advantages of the 2005 Mercury Mariner: Upscale appearanceStrong V6 engine optionAutomatic 4WDAvailable side curtain airbags with rollover protectionRoomy and comfortable interiorObjections to the 2005 Mercury Mariner: Target buyer likely not interested in Mariner’s standard four-cylinder engineThere’s nothing here that isn’t available for less money on the Ford EscapeSome interior bits and pieces don’t say “upscale” the way they ought toEditor’s Advice: Given the Mariner’s upscale styling details and its basis upon the fundamentally sound Ford Escape, this Mercury has a good shot at success, bridging a gap that exists between loaded versions of the Toyota RAV4 and basic editions of the B
