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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  nice looking car but it can be better - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By eric - March 12 - 12:03 am

  We bought a black V6 permier milan and drove it from Florida to Washington DC. No problem. The ride was fine. The rearview visibility is not very good. The car is very stylish from outside but if Mercury wants to compete Milan with Japanese and European cars, it needs to make further improvements to the interior design. For expamples, the a/c vents look cheap. The markings on them look tacky. They should just leave them blank. The marking (unlock) on the door handles also make them look cheap. Leave them blank. The trunk is roomy but the linning is poor. There are some exposed metals in the trunk. The carpet in the trunk is sloppy. Small details can really make a big difference.

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  Milan Review - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Tom Eberhart - March 6 - 2:16 pm

  No acceleration, but cruises at seventy very smoothly and quietly. Handles very nicely. The exterior door mirrors are very large and get bumped a lot.

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  Love My Milan - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By Pam - February 20 - 3:00 pm

  I have had my Milan for a little over 3 months now and love it. It handles great in wet weather and I was surprised at how it handled in snow. It worked much better in snow than the Subaru I had before this and I thought that was good. The 6 cylinder definitely gives it more power in the snow. I love the sunroof and the stereo is unbelievable! Never thought I would really like or want heated leather seats but now couldnt live without them. The spoiler adds a sporty look to it and I highly recommend you get it. The SYNC system is awsome and takes some patience until you figure out exactly how to use it. It is a bit frustrating at first until you use it alot. Love this car! Buy it!

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  Milan MPG 22 Combined. Real Good Car1 - 2010 Mercury Milan
  By Jim Famula - February 20 - 2:00 pm

  Milan 4 Cylinder MPG is outstanding! Solid feel is way above expectations. This car feels much more expensive.

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  Best bang for the buck - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By kirby - January 23 - 3:13 pm

  I decided it was time to get out my SUV and look for a more fuel efficient vehicle. I looked at several makes and models and thought the Milan was the best bang for the $$

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  Great car, not your cookie cutter mobile - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By markw45 - January 13 - 3:10 pm

  Not too many miles just yet but so far so good. Very unique car. I havent seen another pass me by yet. I have seen the Fusion around though. 2 people I work with prefer it to their new vehicles ( one a chrysler 300 and one a Camry ) Nice leather interior, good dash layout.

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  Way to go Ford! - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By Travis - January 13 - 10:26 am

  I was in the market for a used Camry or a new Hyundai when I got tired of the snobby Toyota dealer and the fake, high-pressure Hyundai dealer. I stopped by the Ford dealer and they were awesome; they listened to my needs (a reliable commuter car with good gas mileage and room for 2 teens in the back) and got me into my Milan. It now has 32k miles on it and has been absolutely reliable and still feels like a new car. No rattles or squeaks and not unplanned trips to the dealer. Gas mileage is amazing for this class of car; I get 40 mpg on my way to Phoenix in the morning. The styling is attractive and fresh without being too flashy and it feels like a much more expensive car.

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  2006 Milan opinion after new wears off - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Rick Jones - January 8 - 6:26 am

  Bought the car new in April of 2006 and it now has right at 40,000 miles on it. Its a Premier with a V-6. The lights on the clock and right visor mirror stopped working and were fixed under warranty. Otherwise, the car has been flawless. The styling and design of the vehicle is very well suited for me and my family. The workmanship and quality are impressive. We get approximately 24 mpg in our everyday driving which is about half city and half highway. On the interstate with cruise control set at 65 we get 30.5 and with it set at 55 we get 31.5 mpg. I would buy another one.

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  great car - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By fordman62702 - December 31 - 10:22 am

  Ive had my Milan for almost a year now and its been a great car. Put 11,000 miles on it with not a single issue. Like the looks of the car better than its Fusion cousin. Mine has the two-tone leather interior, love it. Cleans right up. Has plenty of power for a 4 banger. Sound system is awesome. Controls are easy to use. I just cant say anything bad about it. Just buy one, you wont be disappointed.

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  Nice and refined-2010 base automatic - 2010 Mercury Milan
  By skater69 - December 23 - 12:28 pm

  I have the 2010 base automatic (there was no option to select this on Edmunds). Bought the car used with 26K miles. Came with a nice sunroof, leather wrapped steering wheel, fog lights, SYNC..etc. Its nice and comfortable to drive. Quiet, great mileage, good power for a 4cyl, very nice cloth seats. I really enjoy this car. Handles well too but if youre looking for a sports sedan, I wouldnt go that far. Just a really nice car in my opinion. A steal for the price used. Feels/looks like a classy ride.