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 - Urban Nightmare! - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Steve - May 16 - 4:36 pm

  Bought the Milan which supposedly replaces the Sable, three of which I drove for 10 years. Absolutely no comparison. The Milan ride, while smooth on highways, is awful on city streets. You feel every bump and the car shakes on potholes, as if there are no shock absorbers. Urban gas mileage is about 13 mpg, much lower than the Sable. During summer which a/c on and idling, mpg was 10. Then theres the wide wheel base which means wide turning circle, a detriment for parking in tight spots or making U turns on city streets. Youre paying more for less quality which seems minimally cheap compared to the Sable LS.

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  WOW - Best 2006 Vehicle - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Cole - April 15 - 7:40 pm

  This is said to be the same as the Ford Fusion, but if you go and see the vehicles first hand, you will see why this car is best - and they are the same price. This car is heavy, so it feels stable on the road. It rides extremely smooth and it is so quiet, youll think youre plugging your ears. The front grill and the tail lights make this car stand out from the others, as well as the attractive standard rims. With cloth or leather seats & details, the interior of this car is amazing. The cloth is very soft and comfortable and the leather has attractive stitching. The trunk is large and seats fall down py a push of a button. This is by far the best 2006 vehicle you can buy for the price.

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  I like it - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By lclyles - April 9 - 3:40 am

  I was skeptical about a 4 cyl. engine in a mid size car, but it really surprised me. The interior room and looks of the Milan along with the standard equipment sold me. With the exception of the Focus and the Sonata, the other cars were several thousand more than the Milan, when comparably equiped. Avg. gas mileage is 21 in town.

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  Youve gotta drive a Mercury - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By glynn hebert - April 6 - 10:20 pm

  I chose Milan Premier V6 in Silver Birch Metallic with the Stone Interior. The contrast stitching adds a unique, distinctive touch. Like all of the standard features that would cost much more on Toyota or Honda. Its comfortable, sport and fun to drive. I especially the the 3.0L Duratec V6 engine. Mercury has a winner. Drive the rest, then drive the best.

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  Nice Trade in - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By Simon - March 29 - 6:40 am

  We had a Ford Freestyle, I always complained to my wife that she was spending to much in gas. We drove from Dallas TX to New Orleans, last summer with one tank of gas. 490 miles. I had to stop to fill in cause my wife was afraid we ran out of gas otherwise it would reached around 520. Its my wife car, but I love driving it, we average around 26 city and 32 HWY. However since we bought this car my 05 Mercedes is mostly in the Garage, we both like this car. Hopefully FORD will continue building great cars.

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  Excellent Car - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By cotto1973 - March 27 - 11:43 pm

  I have to admit that doubted the commercials claiming that the Milan/Fusion was preferred over the Camry and Accord. Driving is believing. You have to drive one to believe that this car is on par with the Camry and Accord. The Milan is an impressive car. The handling is excellent. Before the snow, I put it through some aggressive winding roads. It hugs the road gives you confidence. We received our first snows of the season here and have had no trouble on the roads. The acceleration is is good. We have about 1000 miles on the car. We average 23-24 MPG in the city. Driving more agressive, the mileage drops to about 21-22 MPG. We havent driven any highway miles yet.

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  Top notch sedan - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By mlconlan - March 14 - 12:06 pm

  The Mercury Milan is simply a better drive than any of the usual suspects in the mid-size sedan category. The I- 4 does not make for a fast sedan, but I knew that going in. The exterior design is distinctive without trying to be different, and presents an exceptionally well balanced look. The trim package on my otherwise base model Milan included top rated Michelin tires and beatiful 17 inch wheels. The interior is very well laid out,and sensible. the fit and finish flawless, and reliability 100% so far.

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  Milan AWD - Must be a best kept secret? - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By G - March 10 - 8:16 pm

  Like the guy tells the babe in the commercial, this car had me just on the looks. Now my expectations for sedans are higher. The styling isnt near as dull as the asian cars. This car looks and is sporty. But the sharp lines and sleek look would have you thinking tight and uncomfortable interior - right? Wrong, this car is just right for me. It is comfortable and spacious and doesnt leave me with an aching body from entering and exiting. Granted I wouldnt be talking about these things if I were paying $500+ a month, but I leased this thing at a great price. I see them up here in Michigan a lot but my daughter says she doesnt see a lot of them where she lives. Let the secret out!

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  My first American sedan is impressive - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By San Jose driver - February 4 - 10:46 pm

  Ive always owned Japanese sedans - Datsun (now Nissan), Mazda Protege, and Toyota Camry - because of their great reputation. Ive now found an American car that can compete with the best of them. The Milan is attractive in the cabin and even more so on the exterior, roomy and comfortable in the front and rear seats, and quiet except upon heavy acceleration. It handles nimbly and stably around curves. Brake performance is outstanding. The Milan is far superior to my Camry in these 2 respects. The trunk is spacious for a midsize car. So far, the reliability has been impressive except as noted below. Overall the car is a real pleasure to drive.

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  Love the Features - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By LJDunham - January 29 - 8:33 am

  I owned an Altima; and LOVED it - 2002. Got great trade in value in MA where we lived before. Loved the style and the inside features-like a Lincoln. Do not know 3.0 mileage,but it is really smooth and drives, handles like a charm. To compare to 2007 cars out it is better look and drive. Pricing higher on Premier, but do feel the sun-roof,CD, and other opions are a must for me. Love the paint color-changes in the sun/shade. All leather-all comfort.