2005 Mercury Mariner Road Test

It has that same upscale ambience when getting inside. No, power running boards aren't part of the package, of course, but

A high level of upscale ambience continues into the cabin of the Mariner, with my test model featuring a unique dark gray and light gray two-tone interior. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

a unique interior treatment is. My test model featured a dark gray and light gray two-tone interior that was unlike anything I've seen anywhere else, while its materials quality seem upgraded slightly over the Escape. The dash layout, while not completely unique, is at least modified to the point where most new car buyers wouldn't immediately notice any similarities to Ford's smallest SUV.

I found the seats were more comfortable too. When inquiring as to why, I was told Mercury sourced their frames from the Mazda Tribute. Ah, now that makes sense, as Mazda put a great deal of effort into differentiating its sport utility from the Escape as well. Furthermore, I learned the gear selector treatment

For me, the European influence is a good thing, and the Mariner has this in spades. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

and the sporty four-spoke steering wheel innards (Mercury gave it a unique leather-wrapped appearance) also came from the Japanese automaker, the latter a particularly smart move on Mercury's side as it feels meaty in the hands, unlike most domestic wheels.

But then again, Ford and its Mercury offspring has done a good job leaving its domestic roots behind, so much that some critics are even saying the automaker is making its cars feel too European. While I find such claims ridiculous, critics are critics and they've got to complain about something in order to obtain some sort of significance. For me, the European influence is a good thing, and the Mariner has this in spades.