Initially planned as a 2007 model, the 2006 Mercury Mariner Hybrid debuted on February 10 in Chicago, a year ahead of schedule.

With a full-hybrid gasoline and electric power train, the Hybrid achieves 29 mpg on the highway and 33 mpg in the city. It does better in the city because the electric motor can propel the vehicle up to 25 mph without help from the 133 horsepower 2.3-liter DOHC Duratec four-cylinder engine. Both the gasoline engine and the AC traction motor team up when needed for a combined output equivalent to 155 horsepower.

Only a few exterior touches tell that this is a hybrid, including ‘Hybrid’ badges, unique 16-inch, five-spoke wheels and an air vent built into the driver's side rear-quarter window to help manage the temperature of the 250 D-size nickel-metal hydride batteries. The Mariner Hybrid's exterior design follows Mercury's brand themes - clean lines with contemporary proportions and the satin-aluminum-finished waterfall grille. On Sale: Fall 2005.