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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  My Best Car Ever - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Jodi - November 24 - 5:23 pm

  From the beginning I have loved this car. It is my first Ford, normally I drive GM, and I couldnt be more impressed with my Ford. My Milan drives so nice and I get compliments on it all the time. I will continue to purchase Ford and I will do it at the same dealership. They were wonderful.

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  Near Luxury at Corolla Prices - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By benkaf - November 19 - 8:15 am

  I bought a 2008 Mercury Milan Premier 4 cylinder with Automatic with 23K last year. I put 27K on it in one year, the most Ive ever driven. Ive previously owned Mazda, Toyota, Honda, Saab, Volvo and never thought Id buy a Ford product. But I can honestly say that I am pleasantly surprised. I have had no problems other than a squeaky a/c fan (which went away). The car is well designed inside and out and pleasant to drive, if not refined. Its also economical. I have been able to get about 27/33 MPG out of my Milan.

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  The Great One - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By Les - November 2 - 1:40 pm

  The Milan has to be the best car for the money. Ford really got this one right. The ride, looks and performance are all better than expectations. My wife and I looked at the Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Toyota Camry, Hyundai something or other and the Buicks. Not one of them came close to what we got with the Milan. You must drive this car before you make a decision about any other car. Get the V6 Premier. You will not regret it.

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  a new kind of mercury - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By T.S. - October 20 - 9:56 pm

  I went from a compact truck to this impressive midsized sedan. I was looking for a Fusion but no dealers were ordering the base model I4 with all the options. I looked at the milan and found one loaded with everything available. I test droe it and took it home the same day. The feel of the vehicle is excellent, interior quality is best in class. I love the feeling of power shifting through the gears and still getting 29-31 mpg. The savings alone in gas is worth it to me. I am a young guy who would have never thought about a Mercury, but this car is fantastic. I havent had any problems and dont anticipate any!!!! If you are looking at any import midsize, you need to see this car.

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  Very nice car - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By hello - October 19 - 1:53 am

  The first gear is a little short. Lots of power and lots of extras. Very nice styling and lots of leg room.

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  Great Value-Great Car - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By TT - October 2 - 10:43 pm

  Bought this car a few weeks ago. I had been shopping Honda, Hyundai, Ford, etc. This car is great looking and they did a nice job with the interior- love the contrast stitching-leather very rich looking and feels great. Sync takes some time to learn but is great once you learn how to use it. The steering is also great-heavy and accurate. This drives and looks like a much more expensive car. Sticker was 26,620 and I paid 22,900. What a value.

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  1st car and love it - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By mark dichter - September 25 - 4:06 am

  first of all the ride in this car is smooth on the road and tight in the corners thanks to volvo. Mercury was smart in designing this car because they put a wonderful engine in a light reliable chassis. i average 400 miles to the tank and for a V6 with some ponys and some torque thats amazing. I overall love my car and would recommend it ti anyone who wants a luxurious car and if they want to have fun every now and then (but of course in a safe way) this is the car for you. For the parents on here this car is reliable safe and will make your son or Daughter love you for ever. trust me because this is coming from a 17 year old. 1 last thing is i got this with 30,000 miles for only $13,500

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  Mercury Finally Matches Competitors - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By plvns - September 19 - 2:16 pm

  A huge value. While this car wont stand out as in any one category, the overall value is tops. A real competitor to Camry, Accord, and Mazda 6. The 17 inch tires and the suspension/steering setup is a nice compromise between Asian car "go cart" suspension feel and heavier German counterparts. Nice dash design, and the exterior styling is sweet. Great in the city and on long trips.

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  Ask the Man who Owns one - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By Happy Owner - August 22 - 5:40 am

  Cant understand the bad reviews that the power trains get on these cars. Being a auto mech I was impressed with the power of the 4cyl. The workmanship in this car is perfect and would compare to any higher priced car. This is a great car for the American public and for the price it sure is a buy. Buy Ford Products

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  Good vehicle - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By samson126 - August 13 - 3:06 am

  Took advantage of year end pricing and financing and not disappointed. Nice family car. If you are looking to save some money by getting the base model of a brand, this model shouldnt disappoint. Took awhile to get used to 4 cylinder after driving 6 cylinder, but after 5 months the car is dependable and gets me from point A to B without any worries. It looks like a more expensive model and so far is very dependable.