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:

• 

  Mercury Milan - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Denise - October 11 - 9:16 am

  Love this car.Owned a Lincoln,& Grand Marquis,cant compare for fun and sport.Also had Mustangs,this is as much a car as the Mustangs with a better price tag.Its about time Mercury came out with a nice sporty good looking car.Really loving the gas mileage!I bought this carfor myself,however my husband is always driving it. It has more room inside than it looks,very,very happy with this car.I hope Mercury continues to design attractive sporty cars.The grill looks like the car is growling,and it does on the highways.But,I may be sticking with this baby.

• 

  have your airbags checked - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By srecz - October 9 - 12:30 am

  My wife was just broad-sided by an suv traveling at 30-40 mph. The Milans side airbags did not deploy. Fortunately,she did not suffer serious injury, but certainly could have in such a serious crash. I would suggest to anyone owning a Milan return to the dealership to have airbag system checked.

• 

  Milan is better than Accord and Camry - 2010 Mercury Milan
  By ALAN HEBERT - October 4 - 4:00 am

  This is my 2nd Milan Premier (the previous being a V6). I opted for the I4 and am extremely impressed with the 175 HP. This is a great car for the money. I test drove Accord and Camry. America, we have a winner. This car is extremely well appointed. The Tuxedo Black Metallic paint is paired with the standard Camel leather interior. I love the 9 speaker Sony sound system. The MicroSoft Sync is awesome. I am able to listed to my music via an Ipod or thumbdrive (via the USB port). The Milan is very driver friendly.

• 

  My New Birthday Present - 2010 Mercury Milan
  By Curt - September 1 - 6:03 pm

  I just purchased a 2010 Mercury Milan Primier V6 with front wheel drive and couldnt be happier! I selected tuxedo black with a camel interior, which I feel not only is a classic color combination, but also brightens the interior. The car is loaded with every option except navigation, which I declined, having just received a GPS for Christmas. I traded a 1996 Mustang GT, desiring a more refined ride, while at the same time, not wanting to give up performance and handling. While I realize comparing a Mustang to a Milan may be like apples to oranges, the former being rear drive and the latter front, the Milans handling does NOT disappoint! In addition, the Milans ride is so serene!

• 

  My new "Milan" - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Hans - August 12 - 11:00 am

  Great Car....great Looks, very good Built, handling terrific. very powerful for a 4 cylinder Engine. Love the Std. Transmission. Only Complaint. Brake and Clutch Pedal too close together, sometimes I hit both Pedals....Change that and you a really terrific Automobile

• 

  Great Car for the Price - 2010 Mercury Milan
  By John - July 28 - 2:10 am

  Ive always been a Chevy man, but after they took bailouts from us, I decided to go with the only American manufacturer that didnt take our money. So, looking for a car I decided to try the Merc Milan. I still compared it to the Chevy Malibu, but the Milan was nicer. Plus, the Mercury dealerships are so much more professional than most others. They actually let me take a Milan out and try it for part of a day. I thought it was a great car for the money; it now in my garage.Especially surprising is the city gas mileage. So far, in town only, Im getting over 24 mpg.

• 

  Awesome Car! - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By Adam - June 6 - 3:16 pm

  Unbeatable interior and exterior styling, mechanical quality and great gas mileage! The creature comforts are endless. SYNC is awesome, and the leather interior is very comfortable. The rims and grille provide fantastic exterior style. The sound system is unparalled. All this, with great gas mileage, 24 in the city, 32 on the freeway no problem. Forget about the Camry, Maxima and cCvic, the Mercury Milan is where it is at. Do yourself a favor and purchase this car!

• 

  2010 Milan Premier 6cyl FWD - 2010 Mercury Milan
  By Tuko - June 2 - 4:06 pm

  Took delivery of our Milan Premier with 6cyl and FWD. Traded in 2007 Lincoln MKZ. Wanted another Lincoln but base price had increased over $10,000 in 3 yrs. Milan is basically same car but way cheaper and with lots of bells/whistles. Good quality. So far, gets 31 mpg Hwy and 24 city. Voice Sync system is pretty neat but steep learning curve and can be distracting. Got Sirius for 2 years. Lot of car for the price.

• 

  Great new car - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By eric - March 24 - 1:13 pm

  This is the best car ive been in, in its class. Beautiful in and out. Smooth ride, handling, and very comfortable.

• 

  Had to be a 5-speed manual - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By Rich Lee - March 19 - 5:36 am

  So far, I am very pleased with my Milan Premier. The Milan is a best-kept secret. I had picked out an Alloy Fusion SEL but just couldnt go through with it. Odd- looking fog lights. So, I located a black/black Premier about 100 miles away, brought the print-out to my local dealership, and they arranged to have it delivered. During my first day, I continued to hear conflicting info RE: outside temp display. I called the service dept, and they told me where it was. Press EXT on the auto climate center. The gas mileage has inceased to 24 after 600 miles and is continuing to improve.