The Mercury Mariner Hybrid features new exterior styling and a redesigned interior for 2008. The compact SUV is powered by 2.3-liter, inline four-cylinder Atkinson Cycle (gas) Engine coupled with an electric motor and a 330-volt sealed nickel-metal hybrid battery pack, which is located on the floor of the cargo bay.

The powerplant is linked to an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (ECVT), which works with the gas engine and electric motor to provide seamless acceleration.

The Mariner Hybrid also is equipped with a Regenerative Braking System. When the brakes are applied, they generate electricity and charge the battery pack.

Standard features for the 2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid include dual-zone automatic climate control, visors with illuminated vanity mirrors, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and an Audiophile sound system with a six-disc, in-dash CD changer and an MP3 input jack.

Other standard features include power windows, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with speed control, a tire pressure monitoring system, front and side-curtain airbags, an anti-lock braking system, fog lamps, a keyless entry system, a remote entry system, a passive anti-theft alarm system, and ice-blue interior lighting, which included lighting for the instrument panel, window switches, door locks, and steering wheel controls.

Power-adjustable exterior mirrors, Electric Power Assisted steering, and Hybrid-unique 16-inch five-spoke aluminum wheels are also part of the package.