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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  drifting - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By Earl - April 26 - 6:16 am

  It feel good but then there was drifting to the right and you had to keep pressure on the steering wheel all the time to stay on the road. they have worked on it and also lied to me what had been done and basically have told me live with it. Some of the work that was done was not told to me and when I question them different stories. the real problem is that they showed me letter that some of Ford and Mecury front wheel drives will drift to the right and states no correction needed. ( my point is that they didnt tell me about any drifting before I purchased this vehicle or I would have got a Chevy. Ford is not up front with there customers.

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  The american comeback - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By howard danoff - April 22 - 2:06 am

  What a great car ... The style,the ride,the handling,as well as the comfort,are exceptional,in this price range...Everyone asks... "Is that a new mercedes or lexus or what is that ... That car is so sharp or what a classy looking car...Then they ask how much, and when i tell them they cant beleive it...I would like a bit more power but the v-6 is sufficient but it would be a 10 with 25 or so more horsepower .... Dont underestimate the milan...All it needs is for the american public to see it and drive it...I think it would also help if mercury increased the warranty to at least 4year/50,000 mile warranty or more

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  Excellent car, exceptional value - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By jinx1928 - April 21 - 9:12 pm

  I made the mistake of trading my 2010 Milan for a Jeep not long ago. I rectified that error by trading the Jeep back in for an 09 Milan Premier with the 3.0 V6 and six-speed trans. I dont understand some of these reviews, especially the "expert" ones, which complain about the 09 Milans lack of power and poor fuel mileage. My Milan has outstanding power and mileage, generally around 33 mpg. Like my 10 Milan, it handles and rides like a champ, but it also has more amenities, like heated leather seats and a better sound system. I like the Milan, as well, for its distinctive styling. It is a good deal different from its sister, the Fusion, and over looks like nothing else on the road.

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  3 Month Followup - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By Gallowsman - April 6 - 5:30 pm

  Well. It has been 3 months since I purchased my Milan and I still love it. Along with all the features I noted in a previous post I finally got to drive it in the snow and wow! What a great ride. Traction is unbelievable even on ice. I am very impressed with this new development along with handling on icy roads. I now have no regrets for not getting the AWD model.

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  I LOVE IT - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By I LOVE IT - March 26 - 10:16 pm

  I love the looks, performance, and the interior options on this car. I have owned imports in the past, and this car beats them hands down. The ride is very smooth, and handles like a dream. I was very surprised of the great engine performance from an AWD.Consumer Report got this car right. Its the best and safest vehicle on the road today

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  Wow, unbelievable, better than Cam/Accor - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Hated Ford! - March 25 - 12:16 am

  this car is unbelievable, its built quality is amazing and the way it handles in corners is way better than that of the accord. Had toyotas before and besides being very durable and good quiet cars, they are boring. on this Milan there is nothing boring about it, and the sound sistem is great! performances is awesome for a 3.0 and the six speed are feeless, all i can say is i have had the car for 17 days, and its just unbelievable, i can tell when people try to figure out what it is. i recomnd this car wey mlore than a Honda/Toyota!!

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  L/M is back with a high quality car - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By Larry - March 23 - 12:53 am

  I picked up my Milan Premier (V-6 FWD) about two weeks ago and can’t say enough positive things about it. The ride is very controlled and smooth with just the right amount of steering wheel tension. Turning into a parking space is controlled, easy and tight. I got 24.6 MPG on my first tank of about 65% highway travel. Both interior and exterior fit and finish is excellent. The SYNC voice command system is exceptional. All vehicles should have it to make hands free cell calling mandatory. It’s just safer for everyone with your eyes on the road.

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  Youve gotta drive a Mercury - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By glynn hebert - March 19 - 12:30 am

  Watch out Camry and Accord.....This is a super car; a lot more car for the dollar; lots of standard amenities that are extra charges by the Japanese imports.....Buy American......Mercury, you have a winner!

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  Great basic sedan - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By Cristo - March 14 - 4:26 pm

  Well, I turned in the lease of my 06 Lincoln Zephyr and purchased an 09 Milan Base model with auto transmission. A very good basic sedan and the 4 cyl gets great mileage. After driving a fully loaded Lincoln for 3 years its hard to go to a base model, however, I dont do the driving I used to. The car is fine for what I need, however, the headrests are very uncomfortable! Why they changed them Ill never know! I had no problem with the ones on my Lincoln. Hopefully, I can switch them out! Ive had the car for 2 weeks and I still havent put gas in it! Great basic no frills transportation.

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  Mustang to Milan - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By Mike7 - March 14 - 4:16 pm

  Great car, not as quick as the Mustang but has almost as much horse power as my 92 Mustang. Handles very well, build quality is great, terrific in snow. I dont get the love affair with foreign cars. Ive yet to be in one that surpasses the quality of this car.