Ch-Ch-Changes: 2009 Ford Escape, Mercury Mariner
The Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner were redesigned just last year for the 2008 model year. New exterior skins and a much improved interior made significant improvements on the aging models — we just hope it’s a stopgap before the import of Ford’s new Kuga SUV, which is just hitting European roads.
For 2009, Ford is diving into the compact SUVs’ engine bays and replacing the previous, paltry 153-hp, 2.3-liter base four-cylinder engine with a new 2.5-liter engine putting out 170 hp. The optional V-6 is also getting replaced, adding 40 more hp for a total of 240 hp. Both are obviously faster; Ford says they trim 1.7 seconds off the 0-60 times of the previous models.
Both models can also get a newly optional six-speed automatic transmission.
Fuel-conscious buyers will be happy to hear that both also get 1 mpg better fuel economy. That’s because Ford equipped the SUVs with low-rolling-resistance tires and altered the aerodynamics of both models, mostly around the front bumpers. Steering is now electric, too.
The hybrid versions of both SUVs get the new four-cylinder engine, but there’s no mention of improved fuel economy. One improvement we can’t wait to test out is the upgraded braking system. The previous model’s regenerative brakes were a major detractor among Cars.com staffers. Other changes include an improvement in the transition from gas to electric operation, as well as a new dampening system to reduce road vibration, another complaint we had with the 2008.
All told, the improvements are welcome, we just wonder why they weren’t rolled out for 2008. The 2009s will be on sale later this year. Right now Ford is offering $2,000 cash back on the 2008 Escape. Check our incentives page for details in your area.
