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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  Great Car - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By Snoo - January 22 - 8:03 pm

  I loved the feel of the car from the first time i test drove a Milan. Plenty of room for my wife and toddler son. Trunk has enough space for stoller and groceries! I love the look of the car as well.

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  Mercury Milan my worst purchase - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By jacklover - January 13 - 7:30 am

  We purchased our Mercury brand new from a Mercury dealer, got a great price for an AWD car. 1) The car does not shift when cold unless you lift your foot or reach 5000 RPM 2) The third driveshaft at 75000 miles 1st was replaced under warranty 2nd an 3rd on my tab. 3) Buy tires get the car aligned, the alignment only lasts about 25000 miles . Firestone Bridgestone goodyear not generic tires 4) the dealer must think my wife is an idiot. Free inspections are not free, they will reccomend something not needed. If you ask a question they will deny it. 5) They dont have parts for a vehicle that is 5 years old. The Dealer and Ford Recommend purcahsing a $917.r dollar unit for a $10. breathe

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  Drove BMWs for 17 years. - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By JDL - January 3 - 12:40 am

  The Milan is a well designed car with many features that are exclusive to Ford/Mercury. The car handles well as a BMW528 and for $28000.00 less! Mine is loaded with Nav, bluetooth, Sync, sat radio, AWD, and believe it or not, the car turns heads. Its got power and the car stops on a dime. Handling is aggressive. I did find that the head-room with the sun-roof was tight, but it was fine once I adjusted the seat, and tilted the steering wheel to suit my position. A very minor issue that I have had to deal with before on my BMWs and Mercedes. The car is awesome in the snow. Mercury set out to beat the Japanese manufactures, and they beat or matched the Europeans in the process. A great car!

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  2010 Milan Premier - 2010 Mercury Milan
  By thecbob - December 20 - 4:30 pm

  I traded down from an F150 SuperCrew Lariat to save money, which I did. Even with a 4-cylinder, it handles well and gets great gas mileage. The driver seat is extremely uncomfortable, causing muscle pain on my commute to work. (one hour each way)In less than two months after purchase, it squeaks and rattles like a 30 year old car instead of a new one. I may be saving money, but Im really starting to miss my truck.

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  Milan is Magnificent - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Matsupa - December 18 - 4:30 am

  We bought the V6 Premier. The ride is excellent, the only problem with the duratech engine is the torque during a hard acceleration, other than that the shifting of the 6 speed transmission is smooth with more than adequate power. I have averaged about 25 mpg combined highway and city driving since I have owned the car.

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  Wow! Nice Ride - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By Gallowsman - December 18 - 12:50 am

  This is definitely a "High End" vehicle. The ride and handling is solid and sporty. The V6 has all the power one can expect, it does the job. The interior is well designed and laidout, no clutter. The rear seating is made for adults, 2 comfortably. The truck is a "3 Body" truck, and with the fold-down rear seats you got all the room you need short of needing a pickup truck bed. The exterior is clean and sporty with wheels that setoff the styling.

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  WOW! - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By Wow - December 13 - 10:00 am

  By far the best car i have ever owned. Its great year round, i have yet to have a problem with it. It looks great inside and out. With the sleek design. This car would be great for any family, older or younger person.

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  Best AWD sedan on the market - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By MountainGoat - December 6 - 4:03 am

  Surprise! The Milans handling is completely competitive with foreign cars! And the AWD coped easily with our icy winter. Our last 3 cars were Outbacks, but the current version didnt have enough leg room, so we switched to the Milan, which has exactly the room we need. Love the comfort, handling, luxury features for the price. Gas mileage averaging 23-24 overall is disappointing, but the V6 power is fun. The drivers headrest hurt my back by forcing my head to tip forward. I had a local welder change the angle. My wifes headrest didnt bother her, because its not in the way when the seat is reclined the way she normally has it.

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  Very pleased - 2010 Mercury Milan
  By gta - December 6 - 2:00 am

  Was leaning heavily toward Fusion but went for the Milan because I liked the exterior styling better. Ive read the other reviews and its all subjective, but imo this is a great car. The leather seats are probably the most comfortable bucket seats Ive ever sat in, and with 8-way adjustable seats plus tilt and tele steering wheel, there should be a comfy seating position for everyone. The lumbar support helps a lot too. Mpg is good, I get around 28 in combo city-highway driving. Build quality appears good. Very quiet at 70 mph, zero wind noise with the windows up. A little more road noise than I would like, but not a major problem. A few minor gripes (see below) but Id buy this car again.

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  Sweet Ride - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By tdvandy2 - November 26 - 2:30 am

  This car is proof that at least one of the domestics finally "gets it". Easy to drive at any speed. Quiet, smooth, and a nicely done interior.