The 2007 Mercury Mariner Hybrid is a midsize SUV available for an MSRP of approximately $27,950. Under the hood there's a 2.3-liter I4 hybrid engine producing 133 horsepower. Expect to get 33 mpg around the city and 29 when you're on the open road.

The standard equipment package is impressive and includes keyless entry, a steering wheel wrapped in leather, a powered seat for the driver (as well as power locks, windows, and mirrors), trip computer, and air. Going with the premium package adds leather seats that are heated, seven speakers on the audio system, navigation based on CDs, and special fuel displays. There's also an optional moonroof.

There haven't been a lot of changes incorporated into 2007 Mariner Hybrid SUV. A couple of new body color are available and drivers can opt to have an airbag in the canopy position. Otherwise this is a close relative of Ford's Escape SUV, to the point that it's easy to mistake the two.

Basically with the 2007 Mercury Mariner Hybrid you get an SUV with a good size, more manageable than its larger relatives, with hybrid technology in a very "normal" looking package. Like many hybrids, the Mariner isn't perfect, but it does show automakers are headed in the right direction. With this one you'll get slightly better mileage and fewer emissions while keeping the flexibility of a traditional SUV.