Considered by many to be at the top of the hybrid technology heap, the 2011 Mercury Milan Hybrid, though pricey, delivers not only great mileage, but an eco-friendly feel. Touted by a number of reviewers as the most efficient hybrid on the market, this five-passenger midsize hybrid sedan remains the only Milan trim offering a standard 6-CD changer to go with its six speakers and standard satellite radio. Other standard amenities found on the Milan Hybrid include 17-inch alloy wheels, premium cloth upholstery, telescoping tilt-wheel steering, cruise control, air conditioning, SYNC/Bluetooth hands-free directions, communications, and audio, one-touch power windows, digital keypad power door locks, heated outside mirrors, power-adjustable driver’s seat, and leather and simulated alloy dash and steering wheels trim. Additionally, the Hybrid sports the handy SmartGauge display, which gives drivers a heads-up as to eco-friendly driving habits. As for options, this economical sedan offers a power moonroof, upgraded Sony premium audio components, and a rear-view camera with the available DVD navigation system.
Standard safety equipment for the 2011 Milan Hybrid includes four-wheel ABS, traction and stability control, front side-mounted airbags, front and rear head airbags, remote anti-theft alarm, OnStar safety communications and notifications, front fog/driving lights, a post-collision safety system, and the MyKey programmable speed and audio volume governor. Safety options are the blind-spot information system (BLIS) and reverse alert sensors.
The heart of the front-wheel-drive (FWD) 2011 Milan Hybrid is, obviously, its well-engineered hybrid drivetrain. A 106-hp electric motor supplements its 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder (I4) gasoline engine, while a standard electronically integrated continuously variable transmission (e-CVT) ensures a net of 191 hp and 136 lb-ft of torque. Regenerative braking helps the I4 recharge its traditional nickel-metal hydride battery, though stopping is a bit erratic and may take a bit of getting used to. Meanwhile, auto engine stop/start, deceleration fuel shutoff, and the I4’s variable valve timing, as well as the capability to accelerate up to 47 mph on electric power alone, combine to give the Milan Hybrid a laudable 41/36 mpg.
