Overview & Reviews

As the corporate twin to Ford's Fusion, the Mercury Milan shared much of that sedan's architecture, drivetrain specification and safety technology. Thanks to this mechanical heritage, the Milan provided nimble handling and adequate interior space for five adult passengers. The main difference between the two cars was that the Milan was more upscale in appearance and typically came with more standard features.

While the Milan may not be the first car that comes to mind when you think of family sedans, it's still a respectable choice for a used family sedan. In fact, its sporty handling put it a notch above the dynamic norm. The Milan also featured a sensible interior layout, and its price tended to be lower than those of traditional class leaders. As an alternative to other mainstream models, the Mercury Milan -- particularly in its later years -- is worth a look.

Most Recent Mercury Milan
The Mercury Milan debuted for the 2006 model year. Production ended with the demise of the Mercury brand for 2011. Originally, the Milan was motivated by either a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 160 horsepower or a 221-hp 3.0-liter V6. Four-cylinder models were paired with a five-speed manual transmission with an option for a five-speed automatic, while the V6 models came only with a six-speed automatic. For the final two years, the Milan gained a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 175 horsepower or a 240-hp, 3.0-liter V6. A six-speed manual was standard for the four-cylinder, with a six-speed auto being optional. The V6 again had the six-speed auto. Most Milans you'll encounter will be front-wheel drive, though Mercury did offer all-wheel-drive versions of the V6 for every year except '06.

There were two trim levels: base and Premier. The base model rode on 16-inch wheels and included items like air-conditioning, an MP3-compatible CD stereo, a six-way power driver seat, a split-folding rear seat, cruise control, full power accessories and keyless entry. Antilock brakes, front seat-mounted side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags were also standard for every year starting in 2007. Stability control, however, wasn't available for the Milan until 2009. The Premier's main draws were its 17-inch wheels, leather upholstery and dual-zone automatic climate control. Major optional features included a sunroof, an upgraded audio system, a navigation system and a 12-speaker Sony sound system.

For 2010, there were major changes that significantly altered the perception of the Milan. Although the original cabin was nicely constructed, it was rather plain-looking and its controls were antiquated -- both in appearance and usability. The standard stereo unit in particular wasn't the best fit for the Sync voice-control system that debuted for '08. The 2010 Milan update also included freshened styling, revised suspension and steering tuning and the more powerful engines. If your budget allows for it, we certainly recommend trying to get a 2010 or '11 Milan.

On the road, four-cylinder models provided adequate power while the V6 offered much-improved acceleration, though the V6 was still down on power when pitted against the competition. Stomping the throttle for more power resulted in a rattly and raucous racket with either engine choice. The steering was also pretty numb, though overall the Milan handled pretty well for a family sedan. Build quality was also generally solid. Up front, the seats were well-shaped and supportive, and all but the tallest adults should be content riding in the Milan's spacious backseat.

User Reviews:

• 

  Mercury Milan my worst purchase - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By jacklover - January 13 - 7:30 am

  We purchased our Mercury brand new from a Mercury dealer, got a great price for an AWD car. 1) The car does not shift when cold unless you lift your foot or reach 5000 RPM 2) The third driveshaft at 75000 miles 1st was replaced under warranty 2nd an 3rd on my tab. 3) Buy tires get the car aligned, the alignment only lasts about 25000 miles . Firestone Bridgestone goodyear not generic tires 4) the dealer must think my wife is an idiot. Free inspections are not free, they will reccomend something not needed. If you ask a question they will deny it. 5) They dont have parts for a vehicle that is 5 years old. The Dealer and Ford Recommend purcahsing a $917.r dollar unit for a $10. breathe

• 

  Too Much Hype - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By jAcK nAPIER - November 25 - 1:46 am

  When I test drove the Milan, the dealership did not have a model I wanted; AWD w/ a moonroof. When I got my car, I noticed that the moonroof cost me 4” of head room. Consequently I hit my head on every little bump. The design of the back window is poor. You can not tell where the end of the car is and you can not see 3-5feet beyond the back bumper. God help any of you who have children or pets around when you are driving in reverse. You would think that engineering would see this risk a mile away. I hope pregnant women or people who can not stand strong fumes do not buy this car. The plastic they use in the car is still giving me a sore throat. Steering is loose at highway speed

• 

  Replacement? - 2010 Mercury Milan
  By flyer - August 16 - 10:56 am

  Traded from 2000 Sable after a great 160,000+ miles. Dealer said this was the replacement for the Sable. Needed car with dual power seats due to wifes back condition. Had to get SYNC to get power seats. Car appears to be designed around "entertainment system." There are 3 different ways to adjust the volume of the system but it is impossible to operate any of the dash controls with winter gloves on. And forget completely about the steering wheel controls, they are way to small to use. However they are really easy to press accidentally while turning the wheel. The seats are narrow and the headrests protrude such that I will have to cut them off and move them back with spacers. Not worth $28K

• 

  If I could only give it back - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By Michael Duvall - June 16 - 7:43 pm

  Like a total idiot, I traded in my totally loaded 04 Oldsmobile Aurora to get this car which was loaded; after getting home I begin realizing how there were hardly if any options assumed. I cant stand this car, the way it shifts, the way it drives, Ive already put about 13K in mileage on this car as I commute a ton. Seats are extremely uncomfortable, interior design is horrible, turning radius is terrible, when you pop the trunk it doesnt self open. No A/C or heating vents in the rear seats; I can go on and on. LOOK HARD BEFORE YOU BUY THIS CAR; I AM EXTREMELY DISSATISFIED. I tried to give it back within the 3-day period of time; but the dealer wouldnt return my calls on how to.

• 

  Milan - Urban Nightmare! - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Steve - May 16 - 4:36 pm

  Bought the Milan which supposedly replaces the Sable, three of which I drove for 10 years. Absolutely no comparison. The Milan ride, while smooth on highways, is awful on city streets. You feel every bump and the car shakes on potholes, as if there are no shock absorbers. Urban gas mileage is about 13 mpg, much lower than the Sable. During summer which a/c on and idling, mpg was 10. Then theres the wide wheel base which means wide turning circle, a detriment for parking in tight spots or making U turns on city streets. Youre paying more for less quality which seems minimally cheap compared to the Sable LS.

• 

  Nothing but issues - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By thomusssa - February 6 - 5:42 pm

  2008 Milan...must have been 1st run modle or something, everything that could go wrong has. I drive highway miles back and forth to work, consider myself close to average to slightly above avg on how hard I drive a car (and take care of it!). After approx 68k miles, transmission goes out. Took to Ford dealer, they want $6,700 for reman transmission. Unreal, had to go with used transmission due to cost. Have had 2 interior items fail, and need replaced. (console tab and short in power outlet) Now, engine rods knocking?! I see good reviews, but cant understand how so much can happen to 1 car. Ive had a Toyota Corolla with 280k miles, and no major issues. Milan was a mistake for me!