The Mercury Mariner II 2.3 (153 Hp) 4WD Automatic was a compact crossover SUV produced by Mercury for the 2007 and 2008 model years. Positioned as a slightly more upscale offering compared to its Ford Escape counterpart, the Mariner II represented a mid-cycle refresh of the first-generation Mariner, incorporating styling and feature updates. This particular variant, equipped with the 2.3-liter Duratec engine and a four-speed automatic transmission coupled with all-wheel drive, served as a mainstream offering within the Mariner II lineup, targeting buyers seeking a balance of fuel efficiency, practicality, and all-weather capability. It sat between the base front-wheel-drive models and the more powerful 3.0-liter V6 options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercury |
| Model | Mariner |
| Generation | Mariner II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.3 (153 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 153 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 206 Nm @ 4250 rpm (151.94 lb.-ft. @ 4250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Duratec 23 |
| Engine displacement | 2261 cm3 (137.97 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.5 mm (3.44 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1584 kg (3492.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2059 kg (4539.32 lbs.) |
| Max load | 475 kg (1047.2 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 830 l (29.31 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1875 l (66.22 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 680 kg (1499.14 lbs.) |
| Length | 4450 mm (175.2 in.) |
| Width | 1806 mm (71.1 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1979 mm (77.91 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2065 mm (81.3 in.) |
| Height | 1727-1778 mm (67.99 – 70 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2619 mm (103.11 in.) |
| Front track | 1552 mm (61.1 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1534 mm (60.39 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 206 mm (8.11 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 302 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 254 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/70 R16; 225/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Mariner II 2.3 4WD Automatic is the Duratec 23 engine, a 2.3-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine, part of Ford’s Duratec family, utilizes a cast iron block with an aluminum cylinder head. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively efficient breathing. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine produces 153 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 206 Nm (151.94 lb-ft) of torque at 4250 rpm. The engine’s 9.7:1 compression ratio represents a compromise between performance and the ability to run on regular unleaded gasoline. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The powertrain is paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, which, while adequate for everyday driving, lacked the sophistication and efficiency of newer transmissions with more gears. The all-wheel-drive system is primarily front-wheel drive, engaging the rear wheels as needed through an electronically controlled clutch.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.3-liter engine and four-speed automatic combination in the Mariner II delivered adequate, but not particularly exhilarating, performance. Acceleration was sufficient for merging onto highways and navigating city streets, but passing maneuvers required planning. The four-speed automatic, while smooth in operation, lacked the responsiveness of more modern transmissions. Gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy rather than outright performance. Compared to the available 3.0-liter V6, the 2.3-liter engine offered significantly less power and torque, resulting in slower acceleration and a less confident feel when fully loaded. However, the 2.3L offered better fuel economy and a lower purchase price. The all-wheel-drive system provided enhanced traction in inclement weather conditions, making it a practical choice for drivers in regions with snow or rain.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Mariner II 2.3 4WD Automatic typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player, and cloth upholstery. Safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS) and front airbags. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio system, leather upholstery, and alloy wheels. Trim levels varied, but generally offered increasing levels of convenience and luxury features. The Mariner II aimed to provide a comfortable and well-equipped interior, though the materials used were generally of average quality for the segment.
Chassis & Braking
The Mariner II utilized an independent front suspension with McPherson struts and a coil spring, coupled with an independent multi-link rear suspension. This setup provided a reasonably comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively. A stabilizer bar was included at both the front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. While adequate for normal driving conditions, the rear drum brakes were a cost-saving measure that didn’t offer the same stopping power as disc brakes. The electric power steering provided light and easy steering effort, though it lacked the feedback of a hydraulic system.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mercury Mariner II 2.3 4WD Automatic was generally well-received as a practical and affordable crossover SUV. Critics praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and available all-wheel-drive system. However, the 2.3-liter engine was often criticized for its lack of power, particularly when compared to the V6 options. Fuel economy was considered average for the class. Compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the Mariner II offered a more affordable price point but lacked the same level of refinement and brand reputation. The 2.3L engine was considered more reliable than the 3.0L V6, which was prone to timing belt issues.
Legacy
The Mercury Mariner II, and specifically the 2.3-liter 4WD Automatic variant, has become a relatively affordable and readily available used car. The Duratec 2.3 engine is known for its durability and relatively low maintenance costs, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers. While not a performance standout, the Mariner II 2.3 4WD Automatic remains a capable and reliable crossover SUV, particularly for those seeking all-weather capability and a comfortable ride. Parts availability is generally good, as many components are shared with the Ford Escape. However, as with any older vehicle, potential buyers should be aware of potential issues such as rust and wear and tear on suspension components.
