Mercury Milan "Random Acts" Promotion

DEARBORN, Mich., Oct. 18, 2005 -- A cup of coffee. A delicious snack to share while sitting at a bar with friends. A hair cut that makes all the difference. These are life's small pleasures and, often, necessities. Imagine if you were actually treated to these things on a single day - right out of the blue ... wouldn't that make your day?

The new 2006 Mercury Milan sedan is hoping to spread that kind of happiness in five cities this fall -- complimentary little "surprise & delights" that should also get some attention for this exciting new design from one of America's most enduring automotive brands.

"Mercury is a brand that's been evolving for the last few years," says Laura Soave Stoppa, Mercury Milan marketing manager. "We know the customer for this new great looking sedan is someone who is social, active and brings their personal style to every aspect of their lifestyle."

She notes that these "random acts" -- a complimentary beverage at a favorite coffee shop or an "on the house" hair cut or manicure on a Saturday morning when you show up for a standing appointment is a way for the new Mercury Milan to "Make Your Day," and a way to associate the Mercury Milan with a great experience.

Wherever these "random acts" will occur, the customer will always find a Mercury Milan sedan parked right outside -- perfectly positioned to look at up close ... even to get inside and test the sound system and other features.

"We're big believers in the 'experiential' when it comes to helping customers get to know a new car," says Stoppa. "We've been really successful in creating these types of interactions at all kinds of events -- from the red carpet at the STUFF Style Awards to the heart of Times Square during Fashion Week to a special movie sneak screening in Miami."

Mercury Milan plans to visit Philadelphia, Boston, Atlanta, Austin and San Diego between now and mid-November. The 2-day "invasions" will also include something during morning drive (a complimentary beverage), something at an evening hot spot (selected appetizers) and then something beautiful (a salon on Saturdays with various style services).

About The Mercury Milan

The car's design team gave it a sophisticated color palette (tinted neutrals, rich blacks, and muted grays) and a two-toned leather interior with contrast stitching inspired by the construction of upscale handbags, shoes and leather goods sourced from around the world.

Mercury's hallmarks of upscale, quality materials and an attention to detail provide a dramatic departure from the many "plain vanilla" mid-size sedans on the market today. Featuring a starting price of $18,995, the new Milan offers customers premium amenities such as MP3 capability, LED taillamps, and a power driver's seat. The Milan's exterior features Mercury's signature cues -- the dramatic waterfall grille, clean lines, distinct rear treatments and satin aluminum finishes. The Mercury Milan brings a fresh flair to the interior design of mid-size cars by carrying the exterior's modernity and clean surfaces through to the cabin.

About Mercury

Mercury is a brand of the Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., which manufactures and distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With more than 328,000 employees worldwide, the company's automotive brands include Aston Martin, Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mazda, Mercury and Volvo. Its automotive- related services include Ford Credit, Quality Care and Hertz. Ford Motor Company celebrated its 100th anniversary on June 16, 2003.