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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  AWESOME & RARE - 2010 Mercury Milan
  By kaylinda - April 7 - 8:35 am

  I just bought my 2010 Mercury Milan. I have wanted this car since I was little. Never thought I would have a opportunity to buy one. I absolutely love it. It is everything I wanted and more. I did my research before buying and it lives up to all the great reviews. I love that I dont see any in my neighborhood or anywhere really. My boyfriend has a Mercury Marauder so as you can see we like cars that arent seen on a daily basis! Merc Squad haha I would definitely recommend this car! Its beautiful and smooooooth!

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  Apples or Oranges? You decide... - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By Bob - March 2 - 3:53 am

  I traded in my 2005 Nissan Altima SER for a brand new 2008 Mercury Milan. My Altima SER was purchased used with 8,600 miles on the odometer. The only drawback it had a six speed manual transmission. It had 18" mag wheels, low profile racing tires, a Bose stereo system, great racing seats, and a powerful 270 hp engine. When I blew the clutch it cost me $1500.00 to get it fixed. Well Nissan blew the repair, I couldnt find reverse at times, neither could I find first. I got so discouraged after several attempts to get it right with Nissan, I went car shopping. I found the Mercury Milan Premier. Its a great car, but its not an Altima SER. Thus my title Apples or Oranges...

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  This is a pretty sweet car - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Lindsay - February 5 - 9:00 am

  I have only owned this vehicle for one month, but it is better than all the other cars I have owned combined.

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  Poised to Revitalize the Mercury Brand - 2010 Mercury Milan
  By MilanBrandon - January 14 - 8:33 pm

  Afer driving this highly satisfying Tuxedo Black vehicle for the past month, I am , firmly convinced that it is among the greatest cars Ive ever driven. The V6 engine with optional AWD has plenty of power for my daily driving conditions and can pass slow- moving Toyota Priuses with ease. On top of it all, the vehicles exterior is quite eye-catching; especially after I purchased chrome Milan VOGA appliques, badges, and grille to replace the satin-aluminum accents (which were beautiful as well). The interior is the standard, charocal black. It handles well on both the city and the highway. With all of the added options, I feel like Im driving a car that rivals most luxury brands.

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  Been a good car thus far - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By atxredhead - January 6 - 12:38 pm

  We bought this Milan in Sept 2010 with 36,000 miles on it. We have put approximatly 20,000 miles on it already and we havent had any problems. Transmitions fine...Gas mileage is decent, its comfortable and roomy (even with two car seats in back) I have notices one thing though, when I first start it the RPMs run high, but if I give it a second (literaly) they go back down to normal. Certainly the best used car Ive ever had. My husband missed the "get up and go" of our 3.9 liter Impala that we had before it, but we have two kids and Im not trying to haul ass around town or anything, so its perfect. I LOVE the side cutain airbags, makes me feel like the kids are safe! Good car thus far!

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  What A Great AWD! - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By tffc - December 22 - 9:33 pm

  Wife only wanted a Sedan. Had to have AWD. Previously had Audi A6 -- junk... always in shop. In our price range, the options were Subaru (tiny), and now comes a Ford/Mercury AWD. I have been very pleased with Ford over the last decade, and have leased 2 Escapes. Looked at this car, and she loved it at first sight! Great looks, excellent safety features. Drive to VT for skiing, and it handles in snow! For the price, this car rocks on features and looks! Wow! We are very pleased with this purchase. The dealer was very eager to make a deal, and the rebates were good. I very much recommend this car!

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  Lovin it - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By milaning - November 25 - 9:40 am

  This car is by far one of the BEST values in the mid-size car segment. Forget Honda Forget Toyota!!! nice cars but WAY over rated. I drove the new accord (had a 00 accord ex) and the 06 Toyota. Great point A to B cars but if you want to LOVE being in the drivers seat you have to test drive this car!!! If you do, I bet you will buy it!!!

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  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

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  Lots of Mileage - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Sailor - November 19 - 9:53 am

  I have had my Milan for 9 months and have put on 37,000 miles. No problems but even the dealer does not have brake pads in stock yet. The lumbar in the drivers seat broke but other than that, I love the car and will be trading her in for another in a year or so.

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  Nice car - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By Steeler - November 2 - 6:16 pm

  Replaced my wifes VW Jetta with this AWD Milan. Very happy so far with this car. Interior is comfortable and attractive in 2-tone with the wood dash trim. Power is acceptable. While you wont win many drag races you will have no trouble accelerating safely onto the highway. Ride blends a sporty feel without being to harsh. Gas mileage could be better, hopefully it will improve as mileage adds up. Overall a lot of car for the money.