2008 Mercury Milan [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 21 Milan reviews and test drives.
Mercury Milan - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Mercury Milan ranks 7 out of 23 Affordable Midsize Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 21 published reviews and test drives of the Mercury Milan, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Milan delivers one of the best combinations of handling, interior room and pleasing styling in its class, but its drawbacks include a relatively weak engine lineup and a lack of stability control technology.
The 2008 Mercury Milan has solid handling, plenty of interior room and abundant crash protection features. Nevertheless, reviewers report the Milan's weak engine options, inconsistent transmission and lack of dynamic stability control detract from its overall appeal. And although a stripper version of the Milan could cost you less than $20,000, the sedan doesn't offer impressive gas mileage.
Additionally, a number of reviews say the sedan's smooth and sophisticated lines reasonable degree of character are not distinctive enough from the higher-ranked Ford Fusion, the Milan's platform-mate. Similar to the Fusion, the Milan carries over to 2008 with minimal changes. If you're in the market for an affordable midsize sedan, consider the similar Ford Fusion, or the high-ranking Honda Accord.
- Car and Driver says the Milan and its platform-mate, the Ford Fusion are "thoroughly modern four-doors, with roomy interiors, excellent crashworthiness ratings, and a better-than-average fun-to-drive index." -- Car and Driver
- Compared to the Fusion, The Truth About Cars writes, "' Why eat with a plastic fork when you can dine with a silver spoon?' I reckon that depends on what and where you're eating. And even if we accept that analogy, the Milan is, at best, a silver plated plastic fork." -- The Truth About Cars
- "The five-passenger Milan - and presumably the corporate twin Ford Fusion as well - seem like the right cars for these uncertain economic times, offering elegant looks, respectable fuel economy, reasonable purchase prices, and your money's worth in handling and comfort." -- Newsday
- "A solid, attractive, good performer that fills a gaping hole in the Mercury lineup." -- Orlando Sentinel
- "The Milan is a case where 'very good'…isn't good enough." -- Washington Post
- "From the benign outside appearance to the boilerplate interior design to the run-of-the-mill engine choices, the Milan is just pleasant rather than pleasing, predictable instead of impressive." -- CNET
Milan Performance - 6.8 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Mercury Milan is praised for having good fuel economy, a solid braking system and impressive handling. Still, sluggish acceleration and a shifty transmission detract from its overall performance. Continue with our full Performance Review to learn more about the positive and negative elements of the Milan's performance. continue
Milan Exterior - 8.1 (Very Good)
While some reviewers are impressed with the Milan's Euro-look, others just see it for what it technically is, a Mercury-styled Ford Fusion. Nevertheless, few find it displeasing. Car and Driver is one of several to note, "Distinctive contemporary styling." Check out the Mercury Milan Photo Gallery for close-ups of the Mercury's trademark grille, or continue with our full Exterior Review to read how reviewers notice European aspects to the Milan's design. continue
Milan Interior - 7.0 (Good)
The Milan's five-passenger interior cabin is widely praised for being attractive, spacious, and for offering ample cargo room. But many warn the interior is better suited to four adults. Check out the Mercury Milan Photo Gallery to see the sedan's cloth upholstery, or continue with our full Interior Review for information on optional features like Sync infotainment system or the DVD-based navigation system. continue
Milan Safety - 9.2 (Excellent)
The Milan offers a long list of standard crash protection features, and has confidence-inspiring government crash test ratings. Continue with our full Safety Review for more information on the car's safety ratings and standard and optional safety equipment. continue
Milan Reliability - 10.0 (Excellent)
The 2008 Mercury Milan reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2008 Milan is protected by Mercury's new-vehicle limited warranty for three years, 36,000 miles. Our full Reliability Review gives additional information on the Milan's basic and extended warranty. continue
