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:

• 

  Milan Very Impressed! - 2010 Mercury Milan
  By Mike Pulsifer - March 19 - 11:06 am

  I have owned a $69,000 Mercedes E Class previously, but this Milan in our opinion is BETTER. Saved $45,000 yet happier. Service engine soon lights do not come on, which became a regular grind with Benz.

• 

  Better value than Imports - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By jdf2007 - February 26 - 10:13 pm

  Driven this Milan for 3 weeks and it is a car that you just cant get enough of! 4cyl. w/ 5 speed auto has very good power even with 4 adults. Avg. 28.6 mpg with under 1000 miles on car. The fit/finish is great and with 17" wheels this car is very attractive. Drove Honda, Nissan and Kia and this Mercury handles better than all. For the value this one hard to beat!

• 

  I love this car - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By Clare - February 7 - 3:30 pm

  I traded in my 2000 Nissan Maxima for the Milan. I have had the car for a little over a week and am really impressed with the quality and tight feel. It is quiet and very comfortable. It runs smoothly and I am looking forward to the winter snows to feel the improved control with AWD.In a few years,I plan on handing this car over to my teenage son who loves to snowboard. I feel comfortable that I will be giving him a safe car.

• 

  Bye, Bye 300!!! Hello Milan!!! - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By Nancy82 - January 18 - 10:00 am

  Well, I traded in my 08 Chrysler 300 and wanted something "different". My friends always refer to my car as the old, businessman car; as Im in my 20s and they only see old, businessmen driving it. Lol. I love it and that is all that matters. Driving is still pretty smooth after a year and dont really have any complaints.

• 

  Cant Really Complain much. - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By BilliardKing - January 13 - 8:03 pm

  I really like the style of this car, the outside is really updated! I havnt found a difference between the 2006-2008 models except for the decal on the doors. The grille is an eye catcher, I have had many complements on the car, especially about the color (Gold) The MPG is acceptable so far it is and avg. of 25 I cant wait to get the window tint darker, that will just top it off! Im glad I bought it.

• 

  American car revival - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Mark - December 23 - 4:50 am

  I am leasing this car over a Saab 9-3 or Camry/Accord or other mid size sedan. Test drove the Saab, like the ride and road noise better in the Milan. Surprisingly fit and finish is better in the Milan. Final judgement, pound for pound the best mid size car 24,000 can buy. (Most bang for the buck).

• 

  Shocked - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By Brad S. - December 5 - 2:40 am

  I was searching out a new car and tried Altimas, Accords, Auras along with a few others. I never really considered trying a Milan because Ive never been a real big fan of Mercury. I was blown away after stumbling on a used one at one of the dealerships. I went out the next day and bought one and have no regret. I dont know what these stupid editors or "car experts" get their info from, but this is a great car. I have the I4 premier and have no complaints. It gets great gas mileage, has a terrific interior and the class and style is top of the line. I would highly recommend this car to anyone.

• 

  What a dream - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By bobbyveee99 - December 3 - 4:16 pm

  Purchased this car 2 weeks ago, what a dream. Had an Audi A6 before. Car cost 38000 this one cost 26000 and this Milan is just as nice riding as my Audi was. Power front seats are only on drivers side not passenger and there is no garage door transmitter, otherwise it has everything

• 

  Luxury you can afford! - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By Steve - November 30 - 3:03 pm

  Ride is wonderful, yet still tight & sporty. Power is great with really good mileage for a V6. Interior is classy, yet sporty with Burlwood Dash. Love SYNC, Navigation, Bluetooth Phone & Stereo all working together. Plenty of room for everyone. Best car Ive owned to date. FORD Motor Company has been and always will be my CHOICE for a new car. Made mostly in America, but American owned company is the only way to buy!!!!

• 

  Love my car - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By Joe - November 29 - 2:00 am

  After my initial test drive, I immediately knew this was the car for me. I fell in love with how effortless the car was to drive and become comfortable with. I love the way the car feels when youre driving it, although after moving up from a sport coupe (Eclipse GT) it is lacking a little punch. This being my first vehicle in ten years with an automatic transmission it took some getting used to, but with that in addition to the Microsoft Sync it makes driving so much safer. Plus, I find myself looking outside at the car throughout the day admiring its styling...