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Mercury Mariner, redesigned last year with a bold new look and upscale interior, gets a mechanical upgrade for 2009 with a feisty new four-cylinder engine and an automatic transmission with six speeds.

The result is an attractive compact crossover with decent fuel mileage and enough performance to be competent in the city and on the highway.

Basically an upmarket version of Ford Escape, Mariner has its own character that appeals to anyone who wants a refined SUV in a smaller, more economical package.

The four-cylinder, front-wheel-drive version that I drove proved to be capable and fairly sophisticated. The 2008 makeover included acoustic improvements – a noise-reducing windshield, better aerodynamics – that subdues engine and road noise, particularly noticeable in Mariner’s quiet highway ride.

The engine gets an 11 percent increase in horsepower, compared with the previous four, that’s delivered more smoothly and with a wider power band thanks to variable valve timing and improved electronic management.

The six-speed automatic is a big improvement over the previous four-speed, especially helpful in keeping the four-cylinder on its toes. One criticism: Downshifts for acceleration felt harsh with the engine roaring in a lower gear than anticipated.

The suspension is tuned for comfort, yet handling is precise with acceptable body sway for a high-profile SUV. I found the power steering, boosted electrically rather than hydraulically, to be responsive but too light and featureless. That’s something I did not notice in the V-6 all-wheel-drive Mariner that I drove last year.

For more economical driving, there’s a hybrid Mariner, although you should weigh the mileage improvement against the higher price tag.

Mercury Mariner Premiere

Vehicle type: Five-passenger four-door crossover SUV, front-wheel drive.

Engine: 2.5-liter inline-4, 171 horsepower at 6,000 rpm, 171 pound-feet of torque at 4,500 rpm.

Transmission: Six-speed automatic.

Wheelbase: 103.1 inches.

Overall length: 175.5 inches.

Curb weight: 3,385 pounds.

EPA rating: 20 city, 28 highway.

Highs: Good drivability, economy, moderate price.

Lows: Harsh downshifts, steering lightness, awkward rear-seat folding.

PERFORMANCE: The new four-cylinder boasts 171 horsepower, a gain of 18 over the previous engine, with better gas mileage. That makes the four a more viable choice than the thirstier 3-liter V-6.

I averaged about 24 miles per gallon in mixed-driving chores. A five-speed manual also is available with the four-cylinder.

DRIVABILITY: Cornering and highway maneuverability are very good, especially considering Mariner’s cushy ride, with some improvements for 2009. But as mentioned, I wasn’t crazy about the steering. Braking is good, but I have to wonder why this revamped SUV has drum brakes in the rear instead of more effective discs. Antilock comes standard, along with stability control and full-length side airbags.

STYLING: The large satin grille in Mercury’s signature waterfall design is distinctive and helps Mariner stand out from the crowd. The SUV is a good size, not too small or large, with a solid look and a sporty stance.

INTERIOR: After complaints about some interior materials feeling below par, Mercury upgraded the 2009 cabin with better trim and textures. Controls for navigation and audio are very nice, easy to use and well-defined. Seating is fairly roomy for a compact, with a broad cargo area. But folding the rear seat for more space is kind of a chore.

BOTTOM LINE: The improved four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic make the upscale Mariner even more attractive.

Base price: $24,425.

Price as tested: $29,340.

OPTIONS

Navigation with audio upgrade, $1,995.

Sunroof, console package, $1,190.

17-inch alloy wheels, $650.

Amenities package with dual climate control and reverse sensors, $590.

Heated front seats and mirrors, $295.

Rear-cargo package, $195.

Shipping, $725.