Mercury continues its compact SUV line with the 2006 Mariner. Based on the same platform as the Ford Escape and the Mazda Tribute, similarities between them end there with Mercury's interpretation of the compact SUV.

The Mariner retains its own sporty character by its distinctive exterior and interior. Reviewers found the Mercury's exterior styling cues attractive and upscale. The Mariner's interior is similarly upscale with its generous use of brushed/satin aluminum finish trims: shift lever cap, steering wheel hub logo, flat door surfaces, instrument bezels, and the center stack's vertical braces.

For short trips, the Mariner provides adequate seating for five, but most reviewers reported the seats uncomfortable for extended travel. Yet passengers have plenty of room, and this compact SUV offers generous cargo space along with many storage bins. The back seat has a 60/40 split, and while not comfortable for long trips, it comes equipped with three individual three-point safety belts and adjustable head restraints.

New for 2006, Mercury offers a "Moon and Tune" package that features a power moonroof and an AM/FM audio system with satellite radio and 6-disc in-dash CD changer. Some new colors are also available. Standard safety features include dual two-stage frontal airbags, ABS with Brake Assist, and lower anchors and tethers for children. Seat-mounted side-impact and side curtain airbags and a reverse sensing system are options.

The base Mariner comes with an inline-4 engine, FWD configuration, with a V6 and 4WD optional. Most reviewers found the four-cylinder engine "adequate," but preferred the V6's extra power. Both engines are noisy in their upper ranges. The Mariner's interior offers a quieter ride than its Escape cousin, but mirror wind noise does intrude around 60 mph.

Overall, the Mariner represents an upscale, sportier version of the Escape. Reviewers liked its handling - a bit more compliant than its cousins - and its stylish exterior and interior.