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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  Six months on, love it - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By fx - April 9 - 7:56 pm

  Over the past 6 years we have owned Jeep, Honda, Subaru, Chrysler, Mazda and VW. This is my favorite. The looks and performance beats all the others. I have had zero problems. Cant say that about the others especially the Mazda and VW. I have never owned Mercury and found this more by chance ( looking for AWD to replace Subaru). Besides the handling, comfort, looks etc. I also like the fact that there are very few of these on the road. where as it seems the Subaru is the Official State Car (Colorado).

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  Comfortable and excellent handeling car - 2010 Mercury Milan
  By Tony - April 8 - 6:46 am

  Car has been flawless during the first 4500 miles. Excellent gas mileage, smooth ride, and very comfortable ride. 4 cyl. and 6 speed transmission provides more than enough power on highway. No creaks, rattles, or any issues at all with this vehicle.

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  2009 Milan is a great value - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By Jim - April 4 - 1:23 pm

  I traded in a 2003 Honda Accord EX for my 2009 Milan VOGA. The Milan styling is unique and the VOGA in white suede turns many heads. Many have said they didnt know Mercury made such a nice looking, sporty sedan. Ive had many compliments on the looks and the car is just as fun to drive. I was also looking at a Chevy Malibu, but with the incentives and discounts I got more options for less money with the Milan. I have the 4-cly. and I range between 30.4 and 33.6 mpg. and I dont even have 4000 miles on it yet. Im anxious to see what kind of mileage I get on a trip this weekend. I suspect Ford is going to give the imports some serious competition with this model.

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  Love this car - 06 Premier Loaded - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By 06 Premier Loaded - March 16 - 12:50 am

  Bought this car end of December 2005. Luxurious & comfortable. So far averaging 32 miles per gallon...which is pretty good. I get a lot of looks and a lot of heads turning just to get a look at the new car. Probably the nicest car Ive ever driven. Its been a very dependable car so far...plus it is fun to drive. I did not like the look of the Ford Fusion at all....the trim and features on the Milan Premier make this a fabulous car!

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  Great overall car - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By S. Runion - February 29 - 4:56 am

  Ive driven this car for a bit over two years with no complaints. Its gone back to dealer only for service. I cant understand people saying lack of power. The 3.0 with 6 speed trans. has lots of get-up-and-go. Improvements desired? A thermometer display and more accessory outlets.

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  Avoid Milan & Fusion with 5-speed Automatic Transmission - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By cesareoc - February 20 - 5:22 am

  This car looks great, drive decently, but it has a major problem: the Mazda built 5 speed automatic transmissions. This transmission seems to have a shorter life span than most modern transmission. Mine started to go at around 80k and completely shut down at 95k. It is a seal system that cannot be serviced, and it is expensive to rebuild. Even the used ones cost twice as much as any other used transmission. This along should be a good reason to avoid Milan and Fusion models with this part, and perhaps all Milan and Fusion.

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  My New Sable, errr, Milan - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By meinschaft - January 25 - 8:40 pm

  I was deciding between a new Civic Si and either a Fusion or Milan. After driving the Civic Si, I decided it is too small (I commute 140 miles/day). Leased a Milan Premier with all options except traction control (I wanted it but the dealer could not get me a car with it). I was prepared to be satisfied but instead have found myself impressed. The price was the same as the Civic Si, and while Iknow its comparing apples and oranges, the Milan is really a lot more car for the money. What really helped make my decisoin was the treatment I received at the Honda dealer - they are old- fashioned leissure-suited liars and thieves. The Milan is exceptionally quiet and smooth.

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  I love this car! - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Heather - January 5 - 7:33 pm

  This is the first new car I have ever bought and I absolutely love it. I considered the Camry or the Altima, but the styling of the Milan really caught me. Plus I really wanted to buy American... so I did. I have been very pleased with the car so far.

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  1 Year of Ownership Update - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By cristo - January 5 - 1:06 pm

  It has been a year now since I purchased my 09 Milan. I have logged only 4,500 miles to date, and (so far) no major issues. I will say that the transmission labors a bit to shift out of first gear when it is cold outside. But is fine once warmed up.It does get on my nerves a bit. My absolute MAJOR complaint is with the headrests in this car! Almost unbearable! I notice all of the Ford products have adapted to this design.I will not purchase another Ford product next year if they are not changed. Other than the two issues I have stated,the car is very good! Mileage is in the mid 20s per gallon. I rarely use it on long trips due to the uncomfortable headrests! It gives me a pain in the neck!

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  Nice Ride! - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By Bhagen05 - January 5 - 9:06 am

  Ive had my Mercury Milan for about a year and a half now. I really enjoy how the car handles and the performance. Havent had anything replaced that was major. Only a few electronic things got replace, a roof molding and the driver leather seat started to crack. All and all the car is a great buy. I still get people who say that it is a nice looking car. especially with the metallic flakes in the paint!