Mercury Mariner Hybrid Announced in New York

Like What You See? Youll Be Waiting until 2006 to take the 2007 Mariner Hybrid for a Spin

Ford Motor Co., and its domestic divisions, has made a recent habit of announcing new products earlier than any of its rivals. Some new “unveilings,” including the Mazda6 based Futura (the brands Taurus replacement that is now nameless since Fords product planning department once again forgot to secure the naming rights) and the Freestyle SUV, have been nothing more than artists renderings displayed on video screens.

Not the case for the 2007 Mariner Hybrid, the future gasoline-electric version of the conventionally powered Ford Escape-based compact Mercury SUV slated to go on sale this summer as a 2005 model. The eco-friendly sport utility was shown in the metal to the worlds top automotive media at the New York International Auto Show in Manhattans Jacob Javits convention center on Wednesday morning, April 7th.

Just like the Ford Escape Hybrid, the Mariner version will use part Ford Motor developed components, part Toyota and a Toshiba electric motor. While late to the hybrid party, the Escape and Mariner will offer what many consider to be the most functional combination of stellar fuel economy, ultra-low emissions and rugged functionality.

When it finally comes to market in 2006, the Mariner Hybrid should sell well, offering the same packaging advantages of Fords Escape Hybrid with upscale styling and interior upgrades. While luxuriously equipped, the Mariner Hybrid has been designed to be more affordable than the only alternative hybrid electric sport utility to be offered, the Lexus RX 330-based h400.