Mercury Mariner Hybrid - the first full-hybrid premium compact SUV - is now the first vehicle to be honored by Green Car Journal as "Green Car of the Year." The award winner is determined by an 11-member panel of international jurors comprised of automotive and environmental experts, including Carroll Shelby, JeanMichel Cousteau and Mario Andretti.

"The Mariner Hybrid is the perfect vehicle for customers who are looking for a distinctive design, the versatility of a sport-utility vehicle, and advanced technology capable of bettering their lives as well as the environment," said Tom Brewer, general marketing manager, Lincoln Mercury. "Being selected 'Green Car of the Year' is a great accomplishment." 

The "Green Car of the Year" award is designed to recognize environmental leadership in the automotive industry. The jury includes Green Car Journal staff, as well as experts drawn from transportation technology, automotive design, racing, environmental protection, social engineering and other related fields.