MIAMI, FL -- (Marketwire) -- 06/03/10 -- With Ford's decision to close the Mercury brand, LeaseTrader.com reveals the most popular all-time Mercury auto leases based on listing and transaction data over the last 10 years. Known as Ford's "in the middle" brand, the manufacturer will end production of Mercury vehicles during the fourth quarter of 2010.

As the nation's most recognized online leasing marketplace, LeaseTrader.com processed Mercury car lease transfers over the years. Among all Mercury vehicles, the Mariner sport utility vehicle was the most popular model on LeaseTrader.com representing 19.8 percent of all search/takeover demand for the brand (Mountaineer 17.8%; Milan 15.6%; Montego 13.4%).

From 2000 - 2010 Mercury represented less than one percent of total LeaseTrader.com vehicle transactions, slightly above Plymouth and Oldsmobile. As a way of comparison, Ford represented 8.9 percent of total LeaseTrader.com transactions during the same period. Mercury was also in the bottom five for cars whose brands were listed on the marketplace that had a low transfer success ratio.

"Mercury followed the same path as several other car brands that recently ended production because of a distinct lack of focus and a failure to connect with buyer demand," said Sergio Stiberman, CEO and founder of LeaseTrader.com. "Although in the short term there is a population that will sorely miss Mercury, in the long run Ford is making the right decision in eliminating its dead weight and aligning its U.S. position with a global strategy."

As a lease swap marketplace, LeaseTrader.com continues to help drivers escape a Mercury vehicle lease no longer wanted with a credit-qualified individual looking to "adopt" the remaining portion of the contract. The initial lessee is able to walk away from the contract without harm to credit and the incoming driver takes over a vehicle with no money down.

About LeaseTrader.com
LeaseTrader.com easily and affordably matches car shoppers with individuals looking to escape their auto lease. Privately held and founded in 1998, LeaseTrader.com is headquartered in Miami. For more information visit www.leaseTrader.com, on Twitter @Lease_Trader, or call 800-770-0207.