One of the best keep secrets of Mercury is the Mercury Mariner. The compact SUV doesn’t get as much air time as it’s sister the Ford Escape but the Mercury Mariner can hold it’s own the segment. For 2009, like the Ford Escape, it has some improvements such as comfort and convenience features, a new Voga package, and an upgrade on the powertrain. Comfort/Convenience The Mariner continues the tradition of cool gadgets and great comfort features. Mercury added the new Voice Activated Navigation system with Sync. These two systems working together put Ford Motor Company on the top of the list when it comes to innovation and user friendly devices. The navigation system has the ability to upload 10 GB of music to it’s jukebox, play DVD’s, and customized your home screen with up to 15 different pictures. As far as the Sync system this takes on GM’s OnStar with like features while not charging a fee. Another part of the navigation is the addition of Sirius Travel Link, which will give you weather and sports updates as well as movie listings and the nearest gas stations. These features are nice to have but keep in mind the navigation is optional and the Sync is standard on the Premier and optional on the Mariner I4 and Mariner V6. Voga Package The Voga Package is new for 2009. This package is optional on the premier comes with it’s own badging on the 17″ chrome wheels, exterior, and embroidered on the floor mats. The interior is black with cashmere leather seats that is stitched in ash with the Voga logo on the seatbacks. The Voga Package adds to the already clean sophisticated look of the Mariner and gives it it’s own personality. New Powertrain One of the biggest improvements to the powertrain is the new 6 speed transmission. This new transmission will allows the Mariner to be more efficient on the road with the added bonus of being able to tow the SUV behind an RV. Another addition to the powertrain is the upgrade V6 taking it to 240 horsepower while getting 2 mpg better. The I4 also got an upgrade in horsepower, an additional 18, 2 mpg for the FWD and 1 mpg for 4WD. When choosing a Mercury Mariner don’t forget about the Hybrid. The Mariner Hybrid is one of the most popular Hybrid’s much like the Ford Escape Hybrid. The 2009 Mercury Mariner is not only a fun compact SUV to drive, it is a smart choice in a vehicle that offers a lot more than transportation. This vehicle not only gives customers the features they want but they also do this at an affordable price. The price range for a Mercury Mariner starts in the lower 20’s and for a well equipped Mariner will take you to the upper 20’s. Not a bad value considering what you are able to get for the money. Category:Home › Home • Will higher gasoline prices mean lower sales for new cars? — part 2 • Will higher gasoline prices mean lower sales for new cars? — part 1 • Should the crew of the Sea Shepherd board whaling ships? • Which makes a better pet: A dog or a cat? — part 13 • Grandparents: Can blogging chronicle your genealogy? • Which makes a better pet: A dog or a cat? — part 12 • Are teachers unions the cause of public school problems today? • Which makes a better pet: A dog or a cat? — part 11