While the wraps on the 2010 Mercury
Milan (along with its Ford and Lincoln
cousins) won't come off until November's Los Angeles
auto show, we caught the refreshed midsize sedan testing in the cold, dark Michigan night.
All three examples shown here are, in fact,
Milan Hybrids, a new offering for the 2010 model year. Though we don't yet know
the exact specifications, rumors suggest the Milan Hybrid will share a
considerable amount of powertrain with the Ford Escape
and Mercury
Mariner Hybrids, including the Atkinson-cycle 2.5-liter I-4 and a revised
series-parallel hybrid transaxle sourced from Aisin. We hear Ford poured
considerable effort into that revised system, which may now be capable of
mating with larger engines - perhaps the Milan's
3.0-liter V-6.
Like much of Ford's revised offerings, the
roofline of the Milan
is carried over from the current car, but there is noticeable change in both
front and rear. Up front, the 2010 Milan
wears an all-new fascia which, given the curvaceous form of its headlamps,
almost hints at the car's Mazda's
roots. The Mercury
waterfall grille is still prominent - perhaps even more so, as it's wider than
before and flows right from a chunky power bulge on the hood.
Styling changes out back, however, are more
subtle. Designers attempted to round off the Milan's rear section, and as a result, the
rear fenders and bumper look chunkier than before. The rear fenders now curve
into the trunk section, and as a result, you'll notice the taillights have a
distinct curve on their uppermost edges. These prototypes also sported LED
taillights, though we don't know if the feature is reserved for the Milan
Hybrid or will be offered throughout the range.
We'll be able to bring you more details and
photos (in better lighting, we promise) once Ford unwraps the hybrid triplets
at the L.A.
show in November. Until then, stay with Automobile Magazine for all the latest
news on both the 2010 Mercury Milan and the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show.
JuicedHybrid.com
JuicedHybrid.com will offer and array of accessories and parts for the new
2010 Mercury Milann Hybrid. These will be items such as:
2010 Mercury Milan
Hybrid Accessories
