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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  Very good overall vehicle - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By cmhennig - September 3 - 10:16 am

  I have been very happy with my purchase overall. The only regret is buying one with the 5 speed manaul transmission. I thought it would be fun shifting gears but its not.

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  Mercury Milan V6 - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By Lee - August 13 - 11:36 pm

  I bought this Milan for my 16 year old son as a B-Day gift because i felt that It was the best out of all the other midsize sedans it has plenty of Safety and Security Features which was #1 on my list of must haves and it has plenty of Luxury features at a great price the car drives and rides well and is safe and solid and has a cool sporty look and i have always be a big fan of Mercury they have always treated me as a valued customer i have owned Grand Marquis and Sables and still do But the Milan is the most modern one with the most up to date features and style so i think i made a smart choice by choosing Mercury Milan Safe,Solid,Sporty what more could you want Overall Great Car ...

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  Bought used - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By j-dool - August 8 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle had most of what I wanted and it had very low miles when we bought it. the car is comfortable on long trips and the heated seats are great on the back. I cant believe weve put over 15,000 miles on it already. Weve had no issues what so ever and while going on 4 years old it looks new. The ride isnt the smoothest but its not the worst either. I like the 17" wheels and I think it handles very well for this type of vehicle.

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  Space Ship - 2010 Mercury Milan
  By Bill - August 1 - 8:50 pm

  strong V6 acceleration; sticks to the road around corners; nice V6 sound on acceleration; exceptionally quiet; Blind side/backup radars and rear camera very useful; Big Nav System touch screen and VR fun to use for calling, playing music, navigating; Sony surround sound exceptional; detailed "message center" info useful and nice instrument cluster; comfortable; nice styling inside and out; Satellite radio, moon roof, Hard Drive for music, remote start are also fun. Way more than just transportation. Issues: had the dealer replace an intermittent door speaker; driver side front and rear doors are slightly misaligned relative to each other; had the dealer adjust the trunk alignment

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  Very Classy - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By Vanessa V - July 23 - 2:50 am

  Ive been driving this car for just under two months, and I am in love with it! I have no complaints whatsover, except on the standard model which I am leasing, there is only two gears. The lowest gear is too low but the other one is too high for going down steep hills. No problem with the horsepower, it does fine for me. I wouldnt change anything about the looks, its beautiful inside and out. The Milan makes a great impression on people. The gas mileage isnt as good as I thought, Im getting around 26 in the mountains. The 08 Milan also has huge trunk space.

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  Mercury has our ATTENTION - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By mercury milan - July 22 - 3:30 am

  The vehicle is quiet, well constructed, I am very happy with the acceleration, the dash is set up nicely, I would like a little more head room , and i am only 5 ft 10inches, fuel regular and the mpg is circa 30 on the hwy.

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  Gotta have Milan - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Kirk S - July 15 - 1:00 am

  Wonderful car. Comfortable and fun to drive. Everyone loves the interior and exterior style. Highly recommend. Looked at Camry and Accord. The Mercury dealer was willing to deal.

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  Nice car. Surprising little gem - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Anon - June 12 - 12:40 am

  Diamond in the rough!!! People that would never consider this car dont know what they are missing. The Mercury brand is revitalizing itself and aiming towards a younger crowd with crisp design and affordable luxury. The work-horse Duratech engine has had years of tweaking with the Taurus/Sable, so, of course the car has great performance and will be reliable in the long term. Sport package actually makes car look sporty and not cheesy like other sedans. Love the tail-lights and fold-down rear seat feature. I feel proud driving this fun little car. The perception that imports are always a better product is just that, a perception. Try American, guys.

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  Great buy. sporty and fun to drive! - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Rene Blais - June 11 - 5:53 pm

  This is my 1st Mercury and Im glad I test drove it because I love it. Great car excellent gas mileage and more.

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  I never thought I would buy a Mercury - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Rick - May 18 - 6:40 am

  I was looking for a Fusion when the 0% for 72 months was running and stumbled upon a Milan. I think its better looking and so far its been a very pleasurable experience. All city driving so far and each tank full has been better mileage, the last one went 374 miles on 16.1 gallons. It will be interesting to get a tank thru it on the highway to see how close I can get to the 29 mpg. Quiet, very roomy and comfortable even for a 66" driver. The controls on the steering wheel make the radio, cruise and a/c controls a breeze, altho the temp control is on the lower right and I rest my thumb in that area when I drive--sometimes the temp gets bumped up to 80 degrees!