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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  Ford Forever - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By DaveK - April 24 - 12:56 am

  I bought this car for my wife almost 2 years ago. We have not had any problems with this car. In the first 9 months we had it I was broad sided on the passenger side. The car held up GREAT. No injuries and thankfully the car was repairable with no signs there was ever an accident. We have taken it through the mountains with no problem (had 2 mens bags and 2 womens - equates to everything but the kitchen sink - and still got 34 MPG over 700 miles). I love this car so muchmy brother just ditched his Malibu and bought one just like it, except he sprung for the V6 which is also quite awesome.

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  Happy I did not buy the Camry! - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By 2Crisco - April 22 - 4:33 pm

  It was between the Milan and the Toyota Camry for me and all I can say is I am so happy I bought the Milan! I was driving a 6 cyl 95 Mustang for 11 years and swore I would never buy another 4 cyl - but I am amazed by the power this car has! The Premier has so many bells and whistles that I dont think Ive found them all in my 6 short days of ownership! I have not yet gone through my first full tank of gas, it seems the gauge barely moves! Not used to this kind of mileage! When every other car on the road is a Camry, driving my Milan is like my little secret! This is a great car!

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  Well worth it! - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By FOMOCO>GM - April 14 - 9:23 pm

  Have owned this car for a week,so far fantastic is all I can say,As much as I hate to admit it being a GM guy. This is my wifes new car, we finally ditched a 2002 Altima (nothing but problems) Ford did a great job with this car.For my wife its all about asthetics and this car has it for reasonable money. Many mistake it for a higher end vehicle.The interior is comfortable, well thought out controls, and easy to use. Build quality seems excellent. Nice quiet ride with little road and engine noise. Power is more than adequate for my wife,has some giddy up when you have to pass. The exterior is exceptional,elegant,rich looking without the price. Definitely the adult version of the Fusion. Bravo Ford.

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  Very happy with my purchase - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By tim - April 1 - 4:13 pm

  The only thing that bothers me is the engine noise but its a 4 cyl 5 speed. Its a fun car to drive and the features that come with the car is perfect for what I and any one else needs that drives a lot.

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  A car is only as good as the driver - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By Appleton - March 30 - 12:40 pm

  I have read a lot of the reviews on this website. I have had my car for a full 2 years. My dashboard doesnt rattle and my speakers are to die for. I drive the 07 V6 AWD Premier model, black leather interior, black exterior, sunroof and spoiler. I keep my maintenace schedule, I dont wait for my car to whine before I fix it, hence my comment, the car is only as good as the driver. I also treat the leather seats every time it gets clean. I have driven mercury models for the past 10 years, without a breakdown. This car will be in the family and on the road 10 years from now. I traded in a Mercedes Benz for this vehicle, and beleive me when I say I got my moneys worth. It glides. I love my car.

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  2007 Milan w/appearance - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By jwr - March 29 - 3:43 am

  So far this has been an outstanding vehicle. Driving a rare 5 speed manual tranny is a real treat, the clutch takeup is as smooth as silk and the tranny shifter is just as smooth. The fuel economy so far is as good or better than the 2002 Focus I traded in on this vehicle. The audiophile sound system is excellent. The car is very comfortable around town and on long highway trips. I would most definitely recommend this car to a prospective buyer.

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  Nice car to own! - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By Shannon - March 28 - 8:10 am

  I love this car! I choose the V6 Premier over the I-4 because of the engine power. This car can really get up and go on the highway. The only thing that I miss about my old car (Toyota Corolla) is the fuel economy.

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  The Mercury that could save Ford! - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Paddler - March 20 - 6:10 pm

  Really the Fusion and the Milan could be the cars that put Ford back on the path to profitability. The Milan V6 is a pure joy to drive. Very responsive steering with a good "on center" feel. Nicely appointed. Smooth shifting 6 speed auto, very reasonable fuel economy (22 mpg around town with AC on). I prefer the 16" wheels as they give the car a better ride than the lower profile 17" wheels. Would I buy this car again, no hesitation, Yes!

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  Bad car - 2010 Mercury Milan
  By icabod2 - March 10 - 2:43 am

  I purchased a 2010 Milan Premier with 15,000 on it . After I purchased it I found out transmission had been rebuilt at 12,000. The car still shift poorly 1st through 5 th gears. Found out later through forums Ford Fusions and Mercury Milans 2010s suffer from bad transmissions.Looking to get rid of car. Would not recommend it.

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  Gives the Japanese a run for their money - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Paddy - March 6 - 1:03 pm

  Our 9 year old Honda Accord got dinged recently in a hit and run, and we finally replaced it with a Mercury Milan Premier V6. Indians like me have prefered Japanese cars with reliability, and we still have a Nissan Sentra. This is a beautiful car. Never mind what the critics say. It seemed to turn wide, but not after we got used to it. The Accord was like that initially too. The drive quality, its smoothness, the pickup with the V6 engine, the trunk space, everything is a smash. We have a small baby, and we decided to get the side impact air bags as part of the safety package. It was worth it, given the positive crash test ratings. Our baby sleeps great in the car.