Engine: 3.0-liter double overhead cam 24-valve V6

Engine Options: 2.3-liter dohc 16-valve inline-4; 3.0-liter dohc 24-valve V6

Transmission: 4-speed automatic

Transmission Options: 4-speed automatic

Standard Safety Equipment: dual two-stage frontal airbags; antilock brakes (ABS) with Brake Assist; LATCH

Optional Safety Equipment: seat-mounted side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags; reverse sensing system

Basic Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles

Assembled In: Avon Lake, Ohio

Model Tested: Mercury Mariner Premier 4WD ($26,495)

Standard Equipment: air conditioning; power windows, mirrors, central locking and front seats; cruise control; AM/FM seven-speaker stereo with 6-disc CD changer and subwoofer; leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel; heated driver's seat and outside mirrors; Preferred Suede seat trim; automatic headlamps; electrochromic inside mirror; message center with compass display; keyless entry with driver-side keypad

Options as Tested: seat-mounted side-impact airbags and curtain airbags ($595); reverse sensing system ($255); side step bars ($325); power moonroof with roof rack and cross bars ($895); rear cargo convenience package ($135); Class II trailer tow package ($350)

Destination Charge: 590

Gas Guzzler Tax:

Layout: all-wheel drive

Horsepower: 200 @ 6000

Torque: 193 @ 4850

Miles Per Gallon in the City/Highway: 18/23

Wheelbase: 103.1 inches

Length/Width/Height in Inches: 174.3/70.1/67.9 inches

Track Front/Rear: 61/60.4 inches

Turning Cycle: 35.4 feet

Seating Capacity: 5 people

Head/Hip/Leg Room, f: 40.4/53.4/41.6 inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, m: inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, r: 39.2/49.1/35.6 inches

Trunk Volume: 66.3 cubic feet

Payload:

Suspension, f: independent, MacPherson strut, coil springs, stabilizer bar

Ground Clearance: 8.4 inches

Curb Weight: 3520 pounds

Towing Capacity: 3500 pounds

Tires: P235/70R16

Brakes: disc/disc with ABS and Brake Assist

Fuel Capacity: 16.5 Gallons