2009 Mercury Milan

The Milan is Mercury's entry into the highly competitive midsize sedan segment, taking a slightly higher more prestigious spot than the mechanically identical Ford Fusion in the FoMoCo brand hierarchy. Both the Milan and Fusion are based on the Mazda 6 chassis, and derive their sporty (relatively speaking) handling responses from that car. The Milan differs from its Ford cousin with unique front and rear fascias that provide a stylish and sophisticated aura, distinct headlights and LED taillights, a modified suspension, and an upgraded interior. The Milan fills the gap in the Mercury lineup previously held by the Mystique and former Sable.

The Milan is available with a choice of four- or six-cylinder powerplants, either of which can be specified by buyers with any trim level. The standard 2.3-liter inline four produces 160 horsepower and 156 lb.-feet of torque and is mated to a standard 5-speed manual transmission, while a 5-speed automatic is optional. For those seeking more power, the 3.0-liter V6 provides a healthy 221 horsepower and 205 lb.-feet of torque and is paired exclusively to a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Two trim levels can be specified with the Milan, base and premier. Base comes equipped with the essentials: a single CD player with MP3 capability, cloth seats, and six airbags (dual front, dual front side impact, and dual curtain). Premier adds leather seating, a premium sound system with an in-dash 6-disk CD changer, and 17-inch machined aluminum wheels to the mix. Options include a touch screen navigation system, a new hands-free system dubbed 'Sync' that allows the driver to make phone calls or control the audio system via voice commands, and a wood trim package that adorns the interior with a mahogany wood trim appliqué.

All-wheel drive was added as an option for 2007 and provides all-weather capabilities for customers trapped in the snow belt. A hybrid version has been promised for 2008 that will mate the four cylinder engine to an electric motor for improved fuel economy.