Like the Escape, the Mariner is one of the boxier compact utility vehicles--with the styling of a traditional SUV--even though it has more road-friendly car-like mechanical underpinnings. It's also one of the more fuel-efficient small SUVs, more so this year with a standard engine that adds power while being more fuel-stingy. With exceptional safety features and superb handling, this 4WD was engineered with excellence in mind