The Mercury Mariner II 3.0 V6 Automatic, produced between 2008 and October 2010, represented a significant iteration of the compact crossover SUV offered by the Mercury division of Ford Motor Company. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Mariner II lineup, it aimed to provide a balance of power, comfort, and practicality for American families. The Mariner II, built on the Ford CD2 platform (shared with the Mazda Tribute and Ford Escape), was intended to refresh the aging first-generation Mariner and compete more effectively in the increasingly popular crossover segment. This particular variant, equipped with the 3.0-liter Duratec V6 and a six-speed automatic transmission, was a key component of that strategy.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercury |
| Model | Mariner |
| Generation | Mariner II |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 V6 (240 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | October, 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.4-13.1 l/100 km (19-18 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9-9.4 l/100 km (26.1-25 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.4 kg/Hp, 156.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 205.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 240 Hp @ 6550 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 316 Nm @ 4300 rpm (233.07 lb.-ft. @ 4300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Duratec 30 |
| Engine displacement | 2967 cm3 (181.06 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1535 kg (3384.1 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2041 kg (4499.63 lbs.) |
| Max load | 506 kg (1115.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 889 l (31.39 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1903 l (67.2 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1588 kg (3500.94 lbs.) |
| Length | 4448 mm (175.12 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 | 1725-1778 mm (67.91 – 70 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2619 mm (103.11 in.) |
| Front track | 1542 mm (60.71 in.) |
| Rear track | 1529 mm (60.2 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 213 mm (8.39 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, 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 |
| Tires size | 235/70 R16; 225/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Mariner II 3.0 V6 was the Ford Duratec 30 engine. This 3.0-liter, naturally aspirated V6 utilized a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads. It featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its respectable power output. The engine employed multi-port fuel injection, a common technology at the time, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The Duratec 30 was known for its relatively smooth operation and decent reliability. Paired with this engine was a six-speed automatic transmission, a significant upgrade from the four-speed automatics found in earlier Mariner models. This transmission offered smoother shifts and improved fuel efficiency compared to its predecessor. The transmission was tuned for comfort and drivability rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 240 horsepower and 316 lb-ft of torque provided by the 3.0-liter V6 and six-speed automatic offered adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration was reasonably brisk, though not particularly sporty. The automatic transmission was programmed with relatively conservative shift points, prioritizing fuel economy and smooth operation over aggressive downshifts. Compared to the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, the V6 offered a noticeable improvement in acceleration and passing power. However, it didn’t deliver the same level of responsiveness as the optional, more powerful engines found in competing models. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributed to predictable handling, but lacked the all-weather capability of available all-wheel-drive versions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Mariner II 3.0 V6 Automatic typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player with auxiliary input, and keyless entry. Higher trim levels, such as the Limited, added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. Optional extras included a navigation system, rear parking sensors, and a premium sound system. Interior materials were generally of good quality for the price point, though not as luxurious as some competitors. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, with easy-to-use controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Mariner II utilized an independent front suspension with McPherson struts and a multi-link independent rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. Front disc brakes and rear drum brakes were standard. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was also included as standard equipment. The suspension was tuned for comfort, resulting in a slight degree of body roll during cornering. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to help reduce body roll and improve handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mariner II 3.0 V6 Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and adequate power. However, some reviewers noted that its handling was not as sharp as some competitors, and its fuel economy was average for its class. Compared to the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder model, the V6 offered a significant performance upgrade, but at the cost of slightly lower fuel economy. The V6 also positioned itself between the base engine and the more expensive AWD options, appealing to buyers seeking a balance of performance and value.
Legacy
The Duratec 30 engine, while not without its quirks, proved to be a relatively reliable powertrain when properly maintained. Common issues included occasional oil leaks and sensor failures, but these were generally not major concerns. Today, used Mariner II 3.0 V6 models are relatively affordable and can represent a good value for buyers seeking a practical and comfortable crossover SUV. The six-speed automatic transmission has proven to be durable, and parts availability is generally good. However, potential buyers should be aware of the vehicle’s age and potential for wear and tear, and a thorough pre-purchase inspection is recommended.
