Mercury is rolling out a product offensive destined to revitalize the FoMoCo division, with the Monterey minivan and Montego sedan this fall, followed by the Mariner sport/utility vehicle. Due in fall 2004, the Mariner is another tastefully executed variation of the compact ute platform that has spawned the Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute. The Mercury model is differentiated with brand-character design elements, like the waterfall grille, large headlamps, U-shaped air intake, satin-finished metal work, and monochrome appearance. The interior also boasts more sophistication than the Escape, with a two-tone treatment highlighted by satin aluminum, wood grain, and chrome accents. The pint-sized triumvirate share basic configurations, with the Mariner offers choices among 2.3-liter inline four and 3.0-liter V-6 engines, and two- and four-wheel drive systems.
