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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  Impressive for a Domestic - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By Andy - July 14 - 7:10 pm

  Having driven a Nissan for the past 4 years and have BMW and VW, I was very apprehensive to go domestic. I needed AWD for weather and this is the best value car with AWD in mid-size. Altima, camry do not offer AWD. Car is built very well, I have no rattles, interior design is classy and clean. Full mileage - difficult to say on 1000 miles driven but AVG. of 23 for mixed driving is not great (our 535i gets 26 avg) - but with a AWD drivetrain it is much better than SUVs Highway is over 30 mpg.

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  Mercury Milan...who knew it was so good? - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By Bill - July 11 - 7:13 pm

  This car was a real surprise to me. I thought I might lease an MKZ. I drove the MKZ and was impressed. Then I drove the Milan! What a difference! The Milan is a better car for the money. Its equipped with a audiophile system, moonroof, heated seats. All for under 26k. The price point beats Honda and Toyota all to heck!

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  Exceeded My Expectations - 2010 Mercury Milan
  By FlaMilkman - July 8 - 10:16 am

  I am extremely impressed with the 2010 Milan 6cycl. The exterior is sharp and the leather seats are as comfortable as sitting in your favorite sofa at home. Acceration is peppy and the brakes and steering are solid. I love the Synch feature - much easier to program and use than the one on my Mazda. My biggest complaint is regarding the size of the buttons on the center console for the radio and A/C - they are too small and too far for easy reach. I have gotten around 25mph on the highway (around 75mph on flat terrain) and around 20 in city driving. This may increase as the engine breaks in better (have around 1,000 miles so far).

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  A Car to Rely On - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By VigaGlum - July 7 - 5:52 am

  I bought this car when the first owner turned it in as a leased vehicle. It was in nearly new condition. It has been comfortable and economical on trips. The best part about it is that it has required no repairs, only regular maintenance. It starts on the first try, even when the temp is -20F. As a 4 cylinder, it doesnt have the acceleration of a 6, but it does very well passing on two-lane highways. I can say honestly it might be the best car Ive ever owned in terms of comfort, reliability, and economy. True, its not a fancy or zippy car, but its a car you can depend on. * Since I wrote that review, the moon roof jammed and wouldnt shut. After checking with the dealer and two auto body shops, I concluded that the cost of repairing/replacing it was ridiculous. So I took it apart and taped it shut. Three weeks later I traded it in on a Honda Accord Sport. However, I dont blame the car. When moon roofs go bad, they are rarely worth fixing (too expensive). Therefore, I will never buy a car with a moon roof again.

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  More elegance at the price of a Ford - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By Mr. Rau - July 3 - 9:30 am

  The fit and finish as well as tight performance are up to European and Japanese standards, but where this car really excels is in beauty and luxury. We love the front end styling and standard aluminum wheel design.The Wales Mahogany wood interior trim looks sleek with the charcoal leather and contrasting stitching. Its never gaudy, but beautiful. The six-way power drivers seat was standard, even on the base model! The audiophile sound system with the Moon & Tune package is one of the best Ive ever used--and with the sunroof, it was only an $800 option. I feel confident that the quality of this car will last, and Ill be delighted to drive it for years.

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  First American and Automatic a BUY! - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By Prof Baldie - June 14 - 5:56 am

  This is our first American car and first automatic. We considered VW CC, Mazda 6S, Acura TL and Infinity 35. But felt guilty with the recession and auto industry meltdown so decided to give domestic a try. We settled on a Hybrid Fusion and made a deposit but lead time was just too long (our second car had been stolen months earlier) and could wait no longer. Saw the Milan, liked it, did some research and ended up with a Milan Voga with AWD. Wife still misses her fun-to-drive VW Jetta Turbo and Subaru Outback but loves features of Milan AWD Voga. Her biggest complaint is the turning circle, which I hope is improved in the 2010 model.

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  Better than the Japanese Imports - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By GEMINILAF - May 30 - 10:36 am

  Super styling cues. I love the 17" multi-spoke alloys. Lots of trunk space, especially when you fold flat the back and passenger front seats. Mercury has really raised the bar with quality materials. Love the Microsoft Sync, 6 disc in-dash CD changer, Sirius satellite radio, and all the bells and whistles you would pay extra for in other vehicles in its class.

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  Great value, great car - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By chris caggiano - May 7 - 11:00 pm

  After owning two Nissan Maximas in a row, their size and price had balooned beyond my needs. I never thought about Mercury until I did my homework and test drove the Milan. Handling is competent and accurate, ride is very comfortable but not sloppy and cabin noise is nill. The 6 cyl engine mates well with the 6 speed automatic. To my ear it produces a better note than the CVTs in Nissans, etc. Fit and finish are outstanding. For some reason this car looks best in dark colors. So far,after ten months, no repairs or problems.

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  nice car - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By mick - May 2 - 7:50 am

  I went from a Ford Explorer, that used to be my daughters but thats another story, to a new 2009 Milan and it has been wonderful. I was worried about the power of the I4, but it has plenty for my taste. After driving the v6 and was certain that the I4 would serve my purpose. I drive it mostly to work, about 10 miles one way, but my wife ownes an Lincoln MKX and we are finding ourselves driving the Milan more and more. Great little BIG car from Ford.

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  Best looking design in years - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Harold - May 2 - 3:33 am

  For my money this is the best looking car produced by FLM in years. What captured both my wife and myself was how clean it looks on the inside. I got a Premier with an automatic and loads of options for $22k with a 4 cyl. engine. The ride is very comfortable and quiet. If the price of gas ever comes down I would suggest the 6 cyl. engine as that would provide some needed power but after owning a 6 and getting terrible gas mileage during the summer in San Antonio, A/C season is from March- November, the 4 fits me just fine. Only had the car a week, will return with more info after Ive driven it a few thousand miles.