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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  Milan delivers - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By baugie - July 7 - 4:43 pm

  Just picked up new Milan last week. Drove around town and on 5 hour wkend trip, and it didnt disappoint. Very comfortable seats, smooth quiet ride. Decent mileage (upper 20s) for driving 80+ mph. Overall, the style of the Milan is very supple. From the aggressive front end to the two-toned interior, I feel as though I am in slightly more elegant environment. It has some flaws such as an audiophile stereo w/out the resonance I would expect. The interior w/ sunroof is not built for a taller person as I have to adjust my seating (Im 66"). The engine shifts very quickly from 1st thru 3rd gears. However, I am very satisifed with the car and hope the reliability holds up.

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  My Wifes Car - 2010 Mercury Milan
  By Mike - June 30 - 5:56 am

  My wife loves this car. Its stylish, comfortable to drive, and has good gas economy (32 HWY and 24city) The White Platium color looks great. It has as many accessories as a lincoln Hopefully the 4 cylinder engine will hold up. This is a great car for the money.

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  Replace Transmission - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Kimber - June 13 - 10:00 am

  I love this car! But after owning it only 9 months (purchased used) the transmission went out! No warranty with 39k miles! It has a auto trans so Im not sure how this happened? Now Im stuck with the repair/replacement bills. Will never buy another Mercury again. I bought only after my Mercury sable was a total loss from a guy hitting me. Not a happy Mercury owner right now. Will prob trade off and cut my losses! : (

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  Love this Car! - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By Flyguy313 - June 11 - 2:30 am

  Just traded in a 2008 Accord LX, Wanted a fully loaded Fusion or Milan with Navigation. The Ford incentives with $3500 cash back was too good of a deal to pass up.The dealership was fantastic and the buying experience was a pleasure. I wanted the Milan Premier with Navigation,spoiler and rear parking assist with heated seats in Smokestone/Camel, and thats what I got. Love the Sync system and Navigation. The Navigation system was rebated off the sticker $1600 so it only cost about $200.

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  I love it!!!! - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Judy - June 7 - 7:43 am

  Best new little car I have ever had. smooth ride, peppy, sleek and fun to drive.

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  Solid Choice - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By Larry - June 4 - 2:00 pm

  Quiet and smooth ride. Excellent on highway MPG at 60 MPH --> 36 to 38 MPG on the onboard gauge on average hilly terrain for Atlanta. A bit noisy at high RPM, but quiet overall. Sync works very well with LG VX9400 phone. Wont miss the park assist, but disappointed at no built-in garage door opener (oh well). Around the neighborhood - averaging about 24-26 MPG as long as dont jump on the gas pedal. Stay moderate and keep RPMs below 2.5-3K and youll do well on gas. Handles very well. The interior design is great and the charcoal cloth seats are very comfortable. Wife has a bad back to comfort was king in our choice of vehicle.

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  Amazing Even in the Most Basic Trim - 2010 Mercury Milan
  By Abbood - June 1 - 2:53 am

  Have had the car for about 2 weeks after a couple of months of extensive research. I must say that I have zero regrets and I am extremely satisfied with my decision. The value I am getting from this car is great as it has extremely solid build and material quality and it is extremely fun to drive. It is extremely spacious and comfortable in the inside, and trunk space is great. I have had an Audi A4 followed by a Toyota Avalon in the past. Glad to go back to the mid-size as the Avalon was extremely not fun to drive. All in all, I definitely feel that I am in a MUCH MORE expensive car.

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  It is fun to drive not just a ride! - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By BG - May 9 - 12:03 pm

  Although I only have 1000 miles and have owned the Milan for only a month, I am completly satisfied. What a fun car to drive here in the hills of Western Mass on our rural roads. I like the economy of the four cylinder with a five speed stick, but the real pleasure is it is fun to drive. The Premier with leather and moon roof gives it a touch of class over the cheap interior of similar priced imports

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  Still happy 2.5 years in - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By EJJMILAN - April 22 - 10:50 am

  I have loved my Milan from the start. I have gotten a lot of compliments on how nice and luxurious it is - it is hard for me to believe it is a moderately priced American car, it is so nice! I was in an accident where I was rear-ended on the highway - I barely felt the jolt, was perfectly fine - my Milan showed minimal damage - I cant say as much about the economy import that hit me - her car literally crumbled and had to be towed away! I loved the two years of free oil changes that I received! My only gripe is the brakes arent that good, and the paint job is not up to snuff. I had to have the roof completely repainted due to rust. Many chips in the paint on the rest of the body too.

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  Nice little car - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By rltr - April 7 - 11:56 pm

  I was researching the Ford Fusion when I took the Milan for a test drive and liked it so much better. Its a fun little car to drive. Ive always had a V6 so the revving of the smaller engine is taking some getting used to, but it holds the road good and drives easy once it reaches steady speed. Its great in the rain compared to what I had before. So far Im getting 28 MPG highway, but its steadily climbing.