The Mercury Milan 3.0i V6 24V, produced from 2006 to 2009, represented a mid-range offering within the first generation of the Milan sedan (2006-2011). Positioned above the base 2.3L four-cylinder model, the 3.0i aimed to provide a more refined and powerful driving experience, competing with vehicles like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. The Milan itself was Mercury’s entry into the mid-size sedan segment, sharing its platform – the Ford CD270 – with the Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ. This variant, with its 3.0-liter Duratec V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission, was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a balance of performance and comfort.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercury |
| Model | Milan |
| Generation | Milan (First Generation) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 i V6 24V (212 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion Engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 188 km/h (116.82 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 212 Hp @ 6250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 271 Nm @ 4750 rpm (199.88 lb.-ft. @ 4750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 2967 cm3 (181.06 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.2 l (9.72 US qt | 8.09 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1535 kg (3384.1 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space | 442 l (15.61 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Length | 4862 mm (191.42 in.) |
| Width | 1834 mm (72.2 in.) |
| Height | 1417 mm (55.79 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2728 mm (107.4 in.) |
| Front track | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Rear track | 1557 mm (61.3 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front Wheel Drive, Internal Combustion Engine |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic Transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/50 R16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Mercury Milan 3.0i was the Ford Duratec 30 V6 engine. This 3.0-liter, naturally aspirated engine utilized a 60-degree V6 configuration, featuring a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. The engine employed multi-port fuel injection and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its respectable power output. The engine code for this generation was typically found as either a 3.0L Duratec. The six-speed automatic transmission (5R55E) was specifically chosen to complement the V6’s power characteristics. This transmission offered smooth shifts and helped optimize fuel efficiency, though it wasn’t known for particularly sporty performance. The transmission featured a torque converter and electronic control for precise gear selection.
Driving Characteristics
The Milan 3.0i offered a noticeable step up in performance compared to the base 2.3L model. Acceleration from 0-60 mph was achieved in around 6.9 seconds, making it competitive within its class. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to downshift, resulting in a slightly less engaging driving experience than the manual transmission options available on some competing models. The gear ratios were tuned for comfortable cruising, prioritizing fuel economy over outright acceleration. The power delivery was linear and predictable, making it easy to modulate the throttle. Compared to the higher-performance Fusion Sport, which featured a more powerful version of the Duratec V6, the Milan 3.0i prioritized refinement and everyday usability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Milan 3.0i typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels, such as the Premium package, added features like leather upholstery, a power driver’s seat, upgraded audio systems, and alloy wheels. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and side airbags. The interior design was generally considered comfortable and functional, though not particularly luxurious. The dashboard layout was straightforward and easy to use, with clearly labeled controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Milan 3.0i utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. The suspension was tuned for a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. The braking system consisted of disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard equipment. The steering was precise and responsive, though it lacked the feedback of some sportier sedans. Stabilizer bars were included both front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mercury Milan 3.0i was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and respectable performance. However, some critics noted that the interior materials weren’t as high-quality as those found in some competing models. Fuel economy was considered average for its class. Compared to the four-cylinder Milan, the 3.0i offered a significant improvement in acceleration and overall driving experience, but at a higher price point. The 3.0i also offered a more refined experience than the base model, making it a popular choice for buyers who prioritized comfort and convenience.
Legacy
The Mercury Milan 3.0i, while not a standout performer in its segment, remains a relatively reliable and affordable used car option. The Duratec 3.0L V6 engine is known for its durability, and the six-speed automatic transmission is generally dependable. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, coolant flushes, and spark plug replacements. The Milan’s platform-sharing with the Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ means that parts availability is generally good. Today, these vehicles are often found with relatively high mileage, but well-maintained examples can still provide years of reliable service. The Milan 3.0i represents a solid, if somewhat understated, offering from Mercury during a period of increasing competition in the mid-size sedan market.
