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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  Love this car! - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By Pam - September 7 - 2:16 pm

  Ive had my Milan for a week now, and love it. On my first tank of gas I am getting 23.9 MPG city. Have not had a chance for Hwy yet. I test drove several vehicles, 08 Fusion, 09 Sonata, 09 Corolla, 08 Malibu, 08 Optima, some were better buys I will admit, however, I love the way this car drives and is very comfortable for me. I really wanted a sunroof and heated seats, however, there were none available at this time in the area so I gave them up because I really wanted this car for the comfort. I purchased the White Suede Metalllic with Camel Leather Interior. I would definitely recommned this car.

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  Love it! - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By Skeeter - September 2 - 11:33 am

  I have had my 09 Milan for 3 months. We have taken one long trip in it. The rest of the time has been spent driving within 50 miles of home. Right now I am getting 30.4 mpg with a cruising range of over 500 miles. With employee pricing and rebates, I was able to buy this awesome vehicle for less than $20,000. We live in the country so Sirrus radio is wonderful since we cant always pick up a good radio station.

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  Green beauty - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By lucky46 - August 30 - 5:40 am

  Fun to drive, fantastic handling. Bought the 4 cylinder for fuel economy. It has adequate zip. I got 34 mpg on a long highway trip through PA. Quieter than my 2003 Sable, handles like a smaller car, very maneuverable and yet with a very comfortable ride and more than adequate interior space. I am 6 foot 4 and I love the telescoping steering wheel.

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  Meets all my requirements and then some - 2008 Mercury Milan
  By Rick - August 4 - 9:20 pm

  Great looking, right size, comforable with enough power to get up and go when needed. Gets many complements. Its fun to drive. Had cars from T-birds to Mustangs plus many others. The last was a Honda Accord. Hated it, ride hard and uncomfortabe large heavy doors making access and exit difficult. My Milan beats it by a more than a mile.

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  best mercury yet - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By dd - August 3 - 10:13 pm

  I picked up my Milan this week with all the options. Its a great sedan -- very comfortable, sound system rocks, seems very well built with a great solid design.

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  Great car, get lots of looks!! - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By Scott - August 1 - 8:40 am

  This is a great car, has plenty of power and I can pass most of the cars on the road. Ive owned a few Hondas and this definitely compares, but isnt seen on every corner. The V6 gives almost 28 on the highway with cruise and no AC on. Great car.

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  Very Impressed so far - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By Warren - June 16 - 2:33 pm

  After my last car which I couldnt wait to buy, and then couldnt wait to get rid of, I wanted a car that I didnt care much about. I never gave Milan any consideration, but saw this one and liked it. It has only been a month but it grows on me each time I drive it. The quality of it is as good or better than the Passat it replaced. It rides very smoothly and handles nicely. The steering is not overly assisted. The leather interior is beautiful and very comfortable. The exterior design is very good looking as well. It definitely looks more expensive. Im not sure why you dont see more of these on the road, but it is nice to stand out in a crowd of Hondas, Toyotas and Nissans.

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  No complaints - 2007 Mercury Milan
  By scavio - June 10 - 6:36 pm

  I always said that if Ford came up with a solid AWD drive car Id buy it... and they did. Got a Silver one with all the options and couldnt be happier. Exterior is top notch and I liked the styling over the standard Fusion. Interior is solid (the stitching in the leather seating was impressive) and has plenty of room for my family of four. The engine could use a little more punch, but it has more than enough power for a mid size sedan. Handles extremely well.

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  Good choice for us - 2009 Mercury Milan
  By Bill - June 2 - 6:13 am

  After 4000 miles, we are happy with the car. It has all wheel drive, which we need in our area, room for real people in the back seat, which we need, good comfort overall, a smooth ride, plenty of power, and all for a reasonable price.

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  Most bang for the buck - 2006 Mercury Milan
  By Howard - May 18 - 7:50 am

  I went to the Detroit Auto Show to pick up a discount coupon for Mercury Montego but fell for the Milan instead, and bought one identical to the one on display at the auto show. In terms of value for dollars spent this is the best car Ive ever owned. For the last 10 years Ive felt that Ford (and GM) have tried to sell the least car for the most money. With the Milan I feel Ford has turned a corner. The Milan is loaded with standard features and useful optional features, very solidly built, classy inside and out. The six-speed transmission is smooth and acceleration is powerful when I need it to be. More than that the car is well thought out in virtually every way.