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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  06 Premier- loaded - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By jsp - September 26 - 5:03 pm

  Great car overall. 500 miles and it is quiet, responsive and good looking. Would like to see more HP. Did 80+ with no problem. Heated, leather seats were great. driver seat could be softer like my ex-camry. Very sporty looking, lots of looks from friends. This is a must consider car. Ford is finally getting it!

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  Finally...a car done right - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By CJ - September 25 - 1:50 am

  We purchased a 2006 Milan Premier after considering the typical Honda and Toyota models. Milan is a standout for the money. The styling is fresh and the interior is first rate. Leather seating is very comfortable, and room is amazing against typical cars in this class. Milan is a fun to drive car, with controlled handling over a number of road conditions. It just seems sure footed. Point it and it follows. The Audiophile sound system renders CDs well, and delivers better sound than most OEM systems. I wish, however, Ford/Mercury would again revert to the JBL or Harman sound systems. Its nice to have a label attached to a premium system. We love this car.

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  My New Milan - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By TKOlive - September 12 - 3:16 pm

  I just leased a new Milan Premier V6 and so far I love it. I traded in a 03 MINI Cooper, and was spoiled by her pep and manueverability- but I am thrilled with everything so far. The Milan does not take off the moment you accel like a CVT transmission, it does jump a bit and lose a little road control with a harder accelleration. After less than a second, it does pep up by leaps and bounds...getting on the highway is a breeze. The back window is a little hard to see out of, the brake light blocks the car directly behind you and the rear-view mirror is distorted. Leasing is a great option if you dont want to pay $400 a month for this car. I got $1000 incentive + $500 college grad money.

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  My Milan - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Froglet20 - August 8 - 12:10 pm

  Ive had this car for almost a year now and I think its wonderful.

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  I love my Mercury Milan - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By A.P.M - July 30 - 4:26 pm

  Ive only had this milan for a couple of months and i really like it. I was very nervous about buying it because Ive always owned a honda accord and I will say this mercury milan gives the accord a run for its money. I am so happy I bought it. It really goes so smooth in town and on highway. Im very glad I had an open mind and tried something new the "Mercury Milan".

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  Awesome Buy - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By LM - July 25 - 10:16 am

  one of the best car purchases i have made yet, milan looks good inside and out, also handles well on roads, would recommend for anyone in the market for a new car.

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  Real review - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By Leo - July 21 - 5:53 pm

  I am giving the car points by what it realy deserves. This car is decent looking, fairly comfortable, and has good mileage. The car is probably best value due to factory incentives. The problems are - not enaugh headspace for people 61" and over, engine is little bit noisier and definitely not silky smooth. It also lacks the power to accelerate - be prepared to be passed by moms in minivans. I had a problem with steering (pulling to left side), this was fixed by dealership (changed steering rod) as warranty repairs. Otherwise no problem with quality. Everything works fine. Also Ford improved the lights so you can drive at night and actually see.

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  Not your grandmas car - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By Lab rat - June 7 - 11:53 pm

  I went to buy a Fusion but decided on the Milan after the test drive. Its just like the Fusion but had a better quality interior. Ive got 40,000 miles on it now and have had no mechanical problems, but all of the valve stems on the tires gave out at 30,000 miles, leaving me on the side of the road on the coldest morning of the year. Its a good little car though. I only buy American and Im happy with this one.

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  My New Milan - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Kristin - June 7 - 6:33 am

  I love my Milan! My husband recently turned in his leased truck, and decided to surprise me with the Milan. When it comes to running errands, its always a toss up as to who drives, we both want to drive .... so we try to compromise.

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  Fantastic car. - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By Chris - May 30 - 12:23 pm

  Ive had this car for a month now and I completely love it. I had a Ford before. It was the most reliable car I ever owned, so I stayed with the company and I have great hopes for the Milan. It certainly has excellent ratings from Consumer Reports. I think the Milan represents great value for the money.