Arrrgh, scalliwag — ye calendars must be waterlogged! It's not yet 2007 and Mercury's already revealed the 2008 Mariner, showing off a new nip and tuck derived to nudge it ever so slightly upscale. Along with some new character lines and revised grillework, the more plush version of the Ford Escape (or baby Mountaineer) also gets some chassis and control system upgrades and a new power steering system to help the little box ride more like a Town Car, while retaining its small-uteness. Engineers also added a new roof panel to help reduce NVH (noise, vibration and harshness). It's also getting new 2008 Mariner colors, including Kiwi, Light Ice Blue and Black Pearl Slate. Better hit the snooze button, this one's not coming out until early next year. [Gallery]
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