2010 Mercury Milan in Asheville, NC - $11,490

The all-new 2010 Mercury Milan sedan is the starting point for the automaker's first passenger car hybrid – the 2010 Milan Hybrid sedan. Offering class-leading fuel economy, the second-generation powertrain system combines the best attributes of the gasoline engine and electric battery-driven motors to deliver the optimal experience in terms of driving performance and fuel economy.

Based on the regular top-of-the-line Premier model, the new front-wheel drive Milan Hybrid receives the same sporty and upscale exterior treatment as the standard Milan sedan. The newly designed front includes a powerfully domed hood, new headlamps, new front grille and larger fog lamps. Aerodynamic enhancements and new underbody shields further boost fuel economy.

The next generation hybrid system in the 2010 Milan Hybrid features a new 2.5L four-cylinder Atkinson cycle gasoline engine with a permanent magnet AC synchronous electric motor. The hybrid prime mover is mated to an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (e-CVT). The propulsion system for the 2010 Mercury Milan Hybrid transitions between gasoline and electric power and back more efficiently and seamlessly.

In addition the hybrid system includes intake variable cam timing (iVCT) which allows the vehicle to more seamlessly transition from gasoline to electric and vice-versa with the spark and cam timing varied according to the engine load to optimize efficiency and emissions; enhanced electronic throttle control reduces airflow on shutdowns, reducing fueling needs on restarts; a wide-band lambda sensor analyzes the air-fuel ratio and adjusts the lean/rich mixture accordingly to keep the system in balance and to minimize emissions; an added variable voltage converter boosts the voltage to the traction battery to operate the motor and generator more efficiently.

A new smaller, lighter nickel-metal hydride battery has been optimized to produce 20 percent more power. Improved chemistry allows the battery to be run at a higher temperature, yet is cooled using the air in the passenger cabin. A new high-efficiency converter provides 14 percent increased output to accommodate a wider array of vehicle features.

The overall system upgrade allows the Milan Hybrid to operate longer at higher speeds in electric mode. It can operate upto 47 mph in pure electric mode, approximately twice as fast as some competitors.

Inside the cabin, the interior reflects a more contemporary technical look with metallic finishes on the all-new instrument panel, center console, doors and steering wheel. The seats received a makeover, as well. The seat contour has been revised, with more side support and overall a more comfortable seat with smoother bolsters and more-textural inserts. The seats also feature contrasting stitching and leather inserts to give the Milan Hybrid even more attitude, befitting this mid-size sedan.

The gauge cluster has been designed with day time backlighting, a black lens, and 3-D elements to create a high tech jewel-like appearance, similar to a fine watch. Drivers will be greeted by a new "welcome" sequence that makes the Milan Hybrid seem as if it's coming to life. Gauge needles sweep back and forth as the lighting and new chimes come on. The ambient lighting system offers the option of illuminating the front and rear footwells and front cup holders.

The two-tone look on the interior continues as a Milan Hybrid signature, with satin-aluminum accents and a wood finish around the center stack.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 107.4; overall length: 190.6; width: 72.2; height: 56.9

All vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 2.5L four-cylinder Atkinson cycle – 156 hp at 6,000 rpm and 136 ft-lbs at 2,250 rpm, permanent magnet AC synchronous electric motor – 106 hp at 6,500 rpm and 275 volts maximum.

Transmission: electronically controlled continuously variable transmission

EPA Fuel Economy: 41 city/36 highway

Cargo capacity: 11.8 cubic feet

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, dual side-curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, electronic brake distribution, traction control, AdvanceTrac vehicle stability control system, battery run-down protection, remote keyless entry, tire pressure monitors, perimeter alarm, side-impact protection system, Securilock theft deterrent system, SYNC communication system, fog lights, automatic headlamps, and reverse sensing system.

Optional safety features include: blind spot information system with cross traffic alert, rearview camera, remote engine start, and navigation system.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile Bumper-to-bumper

Powertrain: 5-year/60,000 mile

Hybrid Components: 8-year/100,000 mile

Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited

Roadside Assistance: 5-year/60,000 mile 24-hour

Pricing

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2010 Mercury Milan Hybrid sedan starts from $27,500. Destination charges add $725.