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:

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  Great car - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By Jim - May 17 - 5:06 am

  I went to the dealer to buy a MKZ, but after testing it against the Milan Premier I4, I felt the Milan was well worth the savings of almost $10,000 over the MKZ. I drive a lot each year and was looking for both comfort and gas economy. I am extremely happy with my choice. I have found the I4 to have plenty of pickup for merging on the interstate or turnpike, and the 5 speed gives good pickup at different speeds.

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  First FoMoCo product in many years - 2010 Mercury Milan
  By winter2 - May 8 - 2:15 am

  Purchase our 2010 Milan Premier as an executive car after my Jeep Liberty diesel lost a rod. Still fighting with Chrysler. Overall, the Milan is surprisingly comfortable and quiet on the road. Fuel economy is good getting in the upper 20s commuting and in the low 30s on long trips. Engine power is adequate but lacks the torque of my Jeep (miss that). Engine noise is very subdued while cruising. Have had issues with Sync as the voice commands refused to work. Three visits to the dealer plus a visit from a Ford engineer finally got it fixed (broken wire). Fit and finish good be a bit better as some body panels are not aligned as well as they could be.

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  Very impressive car - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By Paul - May 6 - 4:46 am

  The car blends handling and comfort remarkably well. The Milan sticks to the road thru hard turns yet still soaks up bad pavement pretty darn well. Power and acceleration are plenty enough for those of us who dont buy a car to race it. Mid and high end power is very good for passing and surging on the highways. Attractive inside and out, this car has all the creature comforts I wanted for about $4000 less than I would of payed for a simiarly equipped Accord or Camry. Factor in the high marks for reliability that Milan/Fusion get and you cant go wrong here.

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  First American Car in 16 Years - 2010 Mercury Milan
  By Mike - May 5 - 9:36 pm

  We picked up our new Milan about 2 weeks ago. So far things have been just fine. For the past 16 years we have driven Toyotas but we thought it was time for a change. The car has a good ride, much more controlled then the Toyota and feels more sporty. The engine is very quiet and the automatic trans shifts very well. Mileage is about 23.5 so far with mostly suburban driving. So far no squeaks or rattles and the leather seats are very comfortable. The trunk seems to be about the same size of the Camry as well as the rear seat. The Sony sound system is great. The only problem is trying to get our older phone to hook up with the Sync system. The interior lighting is a nice touch.

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  06 Milan a hit with me! - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By joe - May 1 - 7:23 am

  Just picked up my new Milan and what a pleasure. The car feels rock solid on the road and is wisper quiet on the inside. You can actulally have a conversation at speed and not have to talk louder than usual.

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  They Got It Right Car! - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Mechanic - April 25 - 2:36 pm

  This I-4 AT Mercury Milan Runs, Handles & Stops Excellently! The build quality is what it should be, with body parts that line up and are tight. The Milan was delivered with the Premier Package & has every feature that one could ever want. (Tilt/ Telescopic steering, 6 CD AM/FM MP/3 Radio, Multi Tone Leather Interior, Power Driver Seat, 17"Aluminum Wheels, Air Bags Front & Side, 4 Wheel Independent Suspension, 4 Wheel Dics Brakes With AntiLock, NiceLookingClock, 5Speed Automatic Trans, PuddleLights, Alarm,Stainless Exhaust System). Real world MPG has been as high as 35 on the highway and not lower than 30.2. City is usually between 20.7 & 23 although the latest cold weather stop & go was 18.7.

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  Well Built Car - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Chuck - April 20 - 6:56 pm

  We have the Premium edition with lots of toys and the car is equal in quality to a Camry or Accord. The only disappointment is winter mileage goes in the tank and 23 is great in the winter but 31 is normal for summer highway. A well appointed car and a great value.

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  Mercury - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Hypercrew - April 19 - 11:56 am

  When I found the car online, I thought, there is no way this is a Mercury. Looking for a European sedan, I was very happy to find this styling and performance in an American car, all at a very good price. People have told me they thought I was driving a BMW or a VW Passat, both of which are taken as compliments.

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  Wake Up People - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By Vidin - April 1 - 6:33 pm

  A great car that is dependable and fun to drive. Gets about 26 mpg all around and on the highway regularly gets 32- 33 mpg. A solid choice.

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  Surprised and Pleased - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By MARC - March 26 - 3:13 pm

  I had all but written off Big three products. I was coming off my MDX lease and was looking for a more gas mileage friendly vehicle. I was also looking to spend a bit less. The Milan just had the best look, quietest ride, fun toys(SYNC and CD changer) for the money. My prior departure from consumer reports recommendations (with ford) have ended badly. To my surprise CR gave the Milan a full red circle(highest rating) for reliability and Camry was only given an average rating. The unfortunate rapid depreciation put a quasi luxury vehicle under 2 years of factory warranty into the range of affordability. 28 MPG 60% highway/country roads. Comp Camry had 80k miles, to a Milan with 16K