Latest Auto News Blog: Ford Launches Redesigned Mariner

Ford unveiled the updated Mercury Mariner today, touting a refined interior and new electric power steering in the small SUV’s first significant redesign since its launch.

The new Mariner will hit showrooms in early 2007 with an all-new interior that Ford says will be quieter and more refined than the old version. From the outside, the 2008 Mariner has a new hood, liftgate, headlamps and taillamps, as well as a raised beltline. There’s also a new, larger grille with bigger openings between the bars.

Ford says new electric power steering will give the Mariner better, more carlike handling without sacrificing its offroad ability.

The Mariner comes in two trim levels: base and Premier, which adds 16-inch aluminum wheels, available satin inserts on the roof rack, leather seats, a power driver’s seat, dual automatic temperature control and body-colored mirrors.