2010 Mercury Mariner Premier

From the outside, a roof rack is one of the only means of distinguishing the 2010 Mercury Mariner Premier from Base trims, along with the automatic headlights. The same powertrain choices are available, with either a 2.5-liter inline four or 3.0-liter V6 mated to a six-speed automatic. Inside, the differences are more apparent, with combination leather and alcantara upholstery for the front bucket and split-folding rear seats, illuminated visor mirrors, and an automatically dimming rearview with integrated compass and temperature indicator. The driver’s seat has 6-way power and lumbar adjustment at this level, and the stereo has been similarly upgraded with a 6-CD changer, satellite radio, iPod adapter, Bluetooth, and voice recognition. Sadly, 16-inch alloys don’t get upgraded here. Standard convenience features additionally include air conditioning, cruise control, rear privacy glass, a center console, floormats, and a tachometer. Power windows, mirrors, and door locks with remote keyless and keypad entry are all included, as well as variable-intermittent front wipers, a rear wiper/defogger combo, and foglights.

Safety features include traction control, dual front, front-side, and curtain-side airbags with rollover deployment, antilock brakes with anti-skid, a theft-deterrent system, and a tire pressure monitor.

By Michael Perkins