In fleet: Nov. 13-Dec. 2
As-tested price: $25,665
Drivetrain: 2.3-liter I4; FWD, five-speed automatic
Output: 160 hp @ 6,250 rpm, 156 lb-ft @ 4,250 rpm
Curb weight: 3,211 lb
Fuel economy (EPA): 23 mpg
Options: Voga package including Voga floor mats, 17-inch chrome wheels, interior trim, hands-free rearview mirror ($995); electronic stability control ($495); Audiophile sound system ($425); rear park assist ($295); heated front seats ($295)
As-tested price: $25,665
Drivetrain: 2.3-liter I4; FWD, five-speed automatic
Output: 160 hp @ 6,250 rpm, 156 lb-ft @ 4,250 rpm
Curb weight: 3,211 lb
Fuel economy (EPA): 23 mpg
Options: Voga package including Voga floor mats, 17-inch chrome wheels, interior trim, hands-free rearview mirror ($995); electronic stability control ($495); Audiophile sound system ($425); rear park assist ($295); heated front seats ($295)
OUR TAKE: Mercury actually has a pretty long history of trying to tie itself to fashion/design leaders, but it's mostly been this sort of "borrow a label" thing. Nautica, anyone?
Regardless, aside from the badge on the tail and the Voga logos on the floormats, there's not a lot to distinguish this. Which in a way is good, because the car underpinning it wouldn't bear up well if you tried to pitch it as "luxury." This is more like designer-label, which is a widespread attribute even at discount stores.
This Milan is a strong entry in the $25,000-sedan class, but one that will be stronger next year when it gets an upgraded engine and improved interior (there's some exterior design and other upgrades for that 2010 model, too).
Fit and finish were really good on this example, and the driving experience was, too. The one caveat is that the 2.3-liter/automatic combination makes for some engine noise under acceleration loads, though it's pretty darned quiet at cruise. At 80 to 85 mph with the little four spinning at 3,000 rpm or so, you couldn't hear the engine, and there's not much wind noise or road roar, either. Again, all that should be even better in '10. The engine gets stronger, a sixth speed is added to the automatic, and they've spent some time in the wind tunnel. While today's Milan is certainly worthy of consideration in this segment--it might be the one you choose based on the deal you're offered--the next one promises to outright win cross-shoppers. Of course, that will apply to the Fusion as well, and the need for a Mercury version (or division) is worth questioning. It's sort of a designer label that's gone out of, ahem, vogue.
Regardless, aside from the badge on the tail and the Voga logos on the floormats, there's not a lot to distinguish this. Which in a way is good, because the car underpinning it wouldn't bear up well if you tried to pitch it as "luxury." This is more like designer-label, which is a widespread attribute even at discount stores.
This Milan is a strong entry in the $25,000-sedan class, but one that will be stronger next year when it gets an upgraded engine and improved interior (there's some exterior design and other upgrades for that 2010 model, too).
Fit and finish were really good on this example, and the driving experience was, too. The one caveat is that the 2.3-liter/automatic combination makes for some engine noise under acceleration loads, though it's pretty darned quiet at cruise. At 80 to 85 mph with the little four spinning at 3,000 rpm or so, you couldn't hear the engine, and there's not much wind noise or road roar, either. Again, all that should be even better in '10. The engine gets stronger, a sixth speed is added to the automatic, and they've spent some time in the wind tunnel. While today's Milan is certainly worthy of consideration in this segment--it might be the one you choose based on the deal you're offered--the next one promises to outright win cross-shoppers. Of course, that will apply to the Fusion as well, and the need for a Mercury version (or division) is worth questioning. It's sort of a designer label that's gone out of, ahem, vogue.
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