5 Things You Need to Know About the Mercury Mariner Hybrid

History of the Mariner

The first Mercury Mariner, a compact SUV that's related to the Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute, hit new car showrooms in the 2005 model year. In 2006, the Mercury Mariner Hybrid arrived. Like its mechanical twin, the Ford Escape Hybrid, it features a system capable of seamlessly switching between all-electric power, all-gasoline engine power, or a blend of electric battery and gasoline engine power for optimum efficiency. It uses regenerative braking and features 155 horsepower (116 kW), compared to the 200 hp (150 kW) of its conventional cousin, the V-6 Mariner.

No Plug In is Required

It does not need to be plugged in. Like other hybrids, its sealed nickel-metal-hydride battery pack is charged by an engine-driven generator and the regenerative breaking system. The second generation 2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid features updated seats, taillights, headlights, doors, and wheels as well as a new liftgate and elevated beltline. While it has the same engine as its predecessor, it's designed to consume less fuel.

It Has a Hybrid Gas Engine

Sporting both a hybrid gas engine and an electric motor, the gas engine shuts down under most conditions when you come to a stop. When driving conservatively at speeds up to 25 mph, the electric motor can often supply all the power. As speed increases above 25 mph or greater acceleration is needed a lower speeds, the gas engine takes charge. When the gas engine is running it recharges the battery.

Tax Incentives Add Value

Those who meet requirements may qualify for a federal income tax credit on the Mariner Hybrid. Because it's a credit rather than a deduction, tax obligations may be lowered by the purchase. Specifics can be found at www.fueleconomy.gov.

Part of the Carbon-Offset Program

The Mariner Hybrid is produced under the guidelines of a carbon-offset program, meaning its production helps fund renewable energy projects in the U.S. that help reduce emissions. The company offsets the greenhouse gas emissions created in producing the 2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrids at its Kansas City Plant.

Jennifer Olvera, a graduate of DePaul University in Chicago, has been writing professionally for over a decade. In addition to covering the "green scene" for publications such as Where Magazine and Crain's, she has become one of the preeminent dining, food, and entertainment writers in Chicago. She has regularly been published in Chicago Magazine, Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago Tribune, Zagat, Citysearch.com, and Gayot.com.