While the 2008 Mercury Milan is generally marketed as an upscale midsized sedan, with its starting MSRP of just $18,725, it is actually the most affordable car in the maker's line-up. It's offered in two different trims. The base model comes with a 2.3 liter, 160 horsepower, four cylinder engine and a five-speed transmission in your choice of manual or automatic. The higher-level engine is a 3.0 liter, 221 horsepower V-6, and has only one transmission option: a six speed automatic. Neither engine requires premium gasoline.

Cosmetically, the designers of the Milan say, they drew inspiration from modern cities, and the distinctive elements include a waterfall grille and a satin-aluminum finish on the trim. The headlights are wide, and wrapped into the hood, and the tail lights are LEDs. For 2008, in addition to a keypad for keyless entry, the Milan also comes in five new colors, including white, silver, blue, and two different shades of green.

Inside the 2008 Mercury Milan, the design cues are reminiscent of expensive handbags and trendy home appliances. There's seating for five covered in leather upholstery with a chose of metallic or wood trim, with two-toned upholstery available as an option. Later 2008-model Milans will incorporate a mood-lighting system, spotlighting the front cup holders, and both the front and back foot wells with a variety of colors, including blue, green, red, and yellow. Taller passengers will appreciate the easier access to the back seat, provided by back doors that have been extended further toward the tail of the car, and there's a spring-assist for folding the back seat down (it's got a 60/40 split, for greater flexibility). Long items can be transported more easily by using a pass-through from the trunk into the passenger seating area, and the front passenger seat folds flat, if needed.

Comfort features of the 2008 Milan include a power-adjusted driver's seat, AM/FM radio and CD player with an input jack for mp3 players, and power door locks and windows. The Sync system is an optional feature, and includes hands-free cellular access as well as a DVD-based navigational system.

The 2008 Mercury Milan comes standard with side-impact and side-curtain airbags, as well as a disc-based anti-lock braking system and traction control. Fuel economy estimates for the Milan are not yet available.