Toyota Camry vs Mercury Mariner: Which one is worth it?

When it comes to choosing between a Toyota Camry and a Mercury Mariner, there are several factors you should consider before deciding. Both vehicles have many features that make them desirable, including fuel efficiency, comfort, reliability and safety. However, the differences between these two cars become more apparent when you compare their performance and features in detail.

Performance

The Toyota Camry comes with a 4-cylinder engine that provides up to 187 horsepower, while the Mercury Mariner's V6 offers up to 200 horsepower. This additional power can be useful if you are looking for more responsive acceleration and higher top speeds. The Camry is also known for its superior fuel efficiency at an EPA-estimated 24 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. The Mariner gets slightly better with 25/33 mpg, but its 6-cylinder engine can also be less fuel efficient than the Camry's 4-cylinder.

Exterior

The exterior of the Toyota Camry has a more traditional design that is easily recognizable. The Mariner, on the other hand, offers a sleeker and sportier look with an aggressive grille and headlights. Both cars have available LED daytime running lights, as well as 17-inch alloy wheels. The Camry also has optional 18-inch wheels for an even sportier look.

Safety

Both cars have impressive safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Camry gets a perfect 5-star rating for overall safety, as well as 4 stars for side crash and rollover protection. Meanwhile, the Mariner also gets a 5-star rating for its overall safety but only 3 stars for side crash and rollover protection.

Interior Features

The Mercury Mariner is equipped with more luxurious interior features than the Toyota Camry. It includes a power moonroof, leather seating surfaces, Bluetooth connectivity and a nine-speaker audio system. The Camry does not offer these amenities and instead opts for a more basic but still comfortable interior with cloth seating surfaces and a six-speaker audio system.

Price

The Mercury Mariner is more expensive than the Toyota Camry, with a starting price of $27,000 compared to the Camry's $23,500. This difference in price is largely due to the Mariner's higher trim levels and additional features.

Conclusion

When comparing the Toyota Camry versus the Mercury Mariner, you should consider the performance, safety, interior features and price of each vehicle before making a decision. The Camry offers more fuel efficiency and a lower starting price, while the Mariner has better performance and more luxurious interior features. Ultimately, you should pick the car that best meets your needs and budget.