2008 Mercury Milan Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our road test for the 2008 Mercury Milan includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Mercury Milan from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Mercury Milan, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Mercury Milan help you decide if a 2008 Mercury Milan is right for you.

2008 Mercury Milan Road Test

Pros	Cons

Steering/handling	Acceleration (4-cyl)

Front seat comfort

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

Premier V6	AWD Premier	Class Average
5	5	5.6

Only V6 Milans have been made available for us to test so far. They have good passing and merging power, even with the additional weight of AWD. Milan lacks the crisp around-town response of a V6 Honda Accord or Toyota Camry; it too frequently requires a heavy throttle application in routine driving. The smooth, responsive 6-speed automatic makes the most of the available power. Milan lacks a manual-shift mode, which would be useful on hilly roads.

Fuel Economy

Premier V6	AWD Premier	Class Average
5	5	5.6

In Consumer Guide testing, a Premier V6 averaged 20.1 mpg. An AWD Premier averaged 18.1 mpg. Both engines use regular-grade gas.

Ride Quality

Premier V6	AWD Premier	Class Average
6	7	6

No opportunity to test a Base model, which has 16-inch wheels. Premiers have 17s that are optional on the base. Those models feel generally composed and absorbent, but sharp bumps can jolt. Milan has a firmer ride than Fusion and MKZ with less float on high speed bumps. Heavier AWD models are the most composed on any surface.

Steering/Handling/Braking

Premier V6	AWD Premier	Class Average
6	7	6

Good balance in turns with modest body lean. Some test cars suffered some torque steer. Close-quarters maneuverability is hurt by a wide turning circle. AWD traction is a boon on slick roads. Stopping control and brake pedal feel are good.

Quietness

Premier V6	AWD Premier	Class Average
6	6	6

Generally hushed. The V6 produces a coarse full-throttle growl that becomes better muted in normal cruising. Some wind rush at highway speed. Tire thrum is heard over grooves and coarse pavement.

Controls

Premier V6	AWD Premier	Class Average
5	5	6.3

The gauges are easy to see and are clearly marked. Audio and climate switchgear take time to decipher. Ditto the look-alike steering-wheel audio and cruise controls. The low-mounted climate panel can force a long look from the road.

Details

Premier V6	AWD Premier	Class Average
7	7	5.5

Milans have a more upscale look when compared to Fusion and even the premium-midsize Lincoln MKZ. Generous use of soft-touch surfaces and a choice of real metal or wood trim look especially nice, for the price.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

Premier V6	AWD Premier	Class Average
7	7	6.7

Ample leg and head space for six-footers. The high seating position contributes to fine outward visibility. All models include a tilt and telescopic steering wheel. Firm, supportive seats are a bit roomier than the class norm.

Room/Comfort (rear)

Premier V6	AWD Premier	Class Average
5	5	5.1

Adult-adequate headroom with good foot space. Knee clearance is tight with the front seats set far back. The cushion is firm and nicely contoured.

Cargo Room

Premier V6	AWD Premier	Class Average
4	4	4

The trunk is usefully shaped but is too shallow for larger items. The budget-grade felt-type liner looks and feels cheap. Cabin storage is good.

Value within Class

Premier V6	AWD Premier	Class Average
8	8	6.2

Milan and its Ford Fusion sibling share their basic designs, which means there's little difference between the two in terms of driving dynamics. The availability of all-wheel drive further enhances their credibility. Both Milan and Fusion are Recommended picks. We prefer the Mercury over the Ford because Milan has a longer list of standard equipment and richer-lookng interior appointments.

Total Score