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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  Good, but.... - 2010 Mercury Milan
  By Ginny - August 9 - 5:26 am

  Ive had my Milan for a month and I love everything about it EXCEPT the location of the temperature controls, which truly create unsafe driving conditions. They are placed too low and are hard to reach. I have to take my eyes off the road too long when I want to change the fan speed or set the defrost, or turn on/off the air conditioner and heater. This is a big enough problem that I would not have purchased the car had I known. Other than that I love the safety features of the car. I have the BLIS and the rear camera and would do both again. I like being able to enter the car by typing in a code - thats a great feature when traveling with others. Head rests are uncomfortable.

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  Excellent - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By lawells27 - August 3 - 4:53 am

  bought new in fall 2005 when they first became available. The lincoln MKZ wasnt out yet so I got the Milan Premier with leather heated seats. I love the look of this car... stylish and semi-luxury look and feel. Still happy with car after several years and plan to keep the car for a long time yet.

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  My first American car - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By Tony - June 13 - 9:40 am

  I owned this car for about one month and I fell in love with it. I drove Honda, Nissan, Mazda before and no one can compare with this Milan. So far I drove about 1,000 miles and MPS is about 26.5. I love digital keypad power door locks and you will never worry about locking you key inside the car.

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  Great car for the money - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By KJK - May 23 - 5:03 am

  After leaving an 04 BMW 325 I was a little concerned about performance, I was told by many that since it is made in part by Mazda, I was willing to take a chance, Now after 5 months of driving this car, I find it to be a great value for its selling price. It may not have the torque of the Beemer, but once driving on the highway, the handling, feel and overall comfort are that of a very high end car with the price tag of under $25,000. People are forever asking me what if is since it has the look of a high end Italian car. Every morning when I get in my Milan, I smile knowing that my payments are half what I had paid for my higher end cars yet it rides as well.

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  Excellent Choise - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By Don Flory - May 14 - 5:03 pm

  I wanted an American brand mid-size V6 sedan. I looked at the Saturn, Dodge, and Pontiac. I was convinced that the Milan had the other three beat in just about all areas. My wife loves the ride, I like the power, and I am very happy with the economy of this power train. We took a 2500 mile trip from Michigan to Florida and averaged 30.6 MPG at 70MPH.

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  2009 Voga Milan - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By Ed. Oesterle - May 10 - 12:30 pm

  I have owned Lincolns and Mercurys for years. I was introduced to the Milan, and shown a Voga style dressed up Milan. I feel in love with just the white leather seats and all the beautiful stainless trim. This style has all the other so called best sellers put to shame. The car is black with the white leather. A head turner. The Milan is a true performer, highway driving is wonderful, the interior outstanding and comfortable and the V6 engine has a lot of get up and go. This car has already shown 24 and 25 miles per gallon and is not even broke in yet, we are a retired couple and we feel young and classy when we drive it. Im also blown away with the sound system, sync and satellite radio. Overall the car is superior and outstanding in all aspects.

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  Milan review - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Rick Wheeler - April 25 - 2:50 am

  I like the features that come with the car as well as the price tag. Most bang for your buck. Styling is nice, ride is smooth and gas mileage is great.

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  Great American sedan - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By JCLOVESYA - March 27 - 7:30 pm

  I downsized from a Crown Vic & Lincoln Continental. I am a big guy 6" 215 lbs 65 yrs old. I was a little concerned about buying what is a smaller car but so far I am comfortable. I average 24 MPG in first 1500 miles.If I drive with my foot in it I am getting 20. Great Handling quiet ride. The sound system is great. Roomy trunk(back seats fold down). The 4 cyl a little week with out high revving but this is the nature of 4 cyls,& I bought for economy. If you need power V6 it. But I am happy with the I4 for the economy. The sound system controls on the steering wheel are great. Handles and corners better than many cars I have driven.

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  Thanks Dad - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By Thanks Dad - March 22 - 4:23 pm

  I recently got moved further from home at work making my commute over an hour each way, driving an eight cylinder pick up was not very economical. I was forced into buying a car quickly with out time to research. My father had recently bought a 2008 Murcury sedan, I was amazed I was not familiar with the line of vehicles because it was such a sporty, luxurious ride. When I heard what he paid I was blown away. Needless to say I got lucky he bought that car because he did the research for me. I bought a 2009 Murcury Milan, 4 cyninder for my commute, and all the bells and whistles for the fun. I miss my truck, but unless things change alot I will be a faithfull Murcury owner in the future.

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  Excellent refined automobile - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By Barry - March 21 - 9:00 am

  Great acceleration for a 4 cylinder engine. Styling is very impressive, looks better than vehicles that cost a lot more. Interior is very comfortable. Premier model has lots of desired extras. Handling is superb! Very good gas mileage. Ford/Mercury has a real winner here!