Overview & Reviews

Plug-in hybrid technology is relatively new, and as is often the case with many young technologies its limitations and costs are high. The Ford Fusion Energi fights the same battles as other plug-in hybrids with its relatively high price and limited electric-only range. But it stands proud as one of the best-styled, roomiest and most comfortable choices in the category.

The Ford Fusion Energi goes a step further than the regular Ford Fusion Hybrid with its ability to propel itself under pure electric power for about 21 miles before switching over to normal hybrid operation. That's a fairly generous electric-only range, as some plug-in rivals only have an 11-13-mile range. But the significant price difference between the Energi and the standard Fusion Hybrid is difficult to justify for most commuters, especially given that once its all-electric range is exhausted, the Energi gets inferior fuel economy.

That said, if your commute or lifestyle line up with a plug-in hybrid, this one is easy to recommend. Like its otherwise identical Fusion siblings, the Fusion Energi goes about its business in a refined fashion and stands out as a stylish, well-equipped midsize sedan.

Current Ford Fusion Energi
The 2014 Ford Fusion Energi is a midsize, extended-range (plug-in) hybrid sedan that comes in two trim levels: SE Luxury and Titanium.

The Ford Fusion Energi has the same 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine found in the Fusion Hybrid, meaning the combined efforts of the gas and electric power sources provide 188 horsepower and fairly swift acceleration. The Energi's much larger and powerful battery pack allows an electric-only range of about 21 miles, but decreases trunk space considerably. Once the car runs out of battery juice and switches over to normal hybrid operation, it performs the same as the Fusion Hybrid but curiously rates 43 mpg combined, rather than the Fusion Hybrid's even more impressive 47 mpg combined figure. Truth be told, however, this represents a negligible difference in gasoline burned.

Standard equipment highlights for the SE Luxury trim include leather upholstery, heated front seats, keypad entry, dual-zone climate control, Sync voice-activated audio, the MyFord Touch electronic interface and a six-speaker stereo system with a CD player, satellite radio and an iPod/USB interface. The Titanium's added perks include a rear spoiler, rear parking sensors, front sport seats and an upgraded 12-speaker audio system. Options include a sunroof, a rearview camera, automated parallel parking, adaptive cruise control, remote ignition and a variety of driver warning systems (blind spot, lane departure and rear cross-traffic).

In reviews, the Ford Fusion Energi performs similar to a standard Fusion, which is to say quite well. Handling is sharp and confident, while the ride is supple and quiet over pockmarked city streets and smooth, wide-open highways alike. The Energi's regenerative braking system can take some getting used to, but is better than most other hybrids. Compared to the Fusion Hybrid, the Energi's all-electric range should prove beneficial for those with a short commute and some place to plug in at night. The substantial available tax rebates are another benefit that bridges the price difference considerably.

Used Ford Fusion Energi Models
The Ford Fusion Energi was introduced for 2013. These Fusion Energis are identical to the latest version with a few minor exceptions. Specifically they lack the availability of a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats and inflatable (airbag) rear seatbelts.

User Reviews:

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  Great vehicle, the plug in is the bonus - 2014 Ford Fusion Energi
  By teo_baby - September 12 - 12:54 am

  I have had my vehicle for 3 weeks now. Have 850 miles on it and still have not been to the gas station. I have a quarter tank of gas. The interior of the vehicle is very nicely done. The seats are very comfortable and supportive. Fit and finish is up there with entry luxury vehicles. The technology is quite advanced. I have the adaptive cruise and blind spot detections system. It also alerts you if you are in danger of an imminent crash. The exterior styling is distinctive. If you are considering a plug in Prius or plug in Accord, check out the Fusion.

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  Effcient Commuter Car - 2013 Ford Fusion Energi
  By commuter14 - May 23 - 3:51 am

  I drive a Ford Fusion Energi as a commuter car. I drive 16 miles each way in stop and go traffic on surface streets and freeway. I live in a hilly area. Going to work I drive all electric with brake regen down hills. It is very quiet. I dont charge up at work. About half way home it switches over to hybrid mode. After a month of driving 865 miles the dashboard says my avg is 90.4 mpge (less if climate on) I charge it up nightly in my garage using a 110 volt charger. The Adaptive Cruise Control reduces commuter stress. The Sony stereo sounds good using Sirrus or streaming music via bluetooth phone using Spotify. I am enjoying my new tech car. My commute costs are much less.

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  Somewhat wary - 2013 Ford Fusion Energi
  By fordloyalist1 - June 7 - 11:49 pm

  I purchased my Ford Energi as a model car with approximately 9,000 miles. During the time I was test driving it and since I purchased the vehicle (I have now put about 5,000 on it), the battery died and needed replacing and it has been in the shop four different different times for a check engine light. It may be a good car but I dont have much trust in its performance and reliability at this point. My dealer has been great (responsive) but this car has spent too much time in the shop being repaired. It only has about 14,000 miles on it now. Will I continue to see problems with this vehicle? At what point do I suggest to the dealer that this may be a long term problem?

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  2013 Fusion Energi SE Owner... - 2013 Ford Fusion Energi
  By matth77 - May 19 - 2:22 am

  As a recent purchaser of this vehicle, I find the Edmunds review spot on. I confess the price difference between the Energi and regular Fusion Hybrid gave me pause, but I went forward with the Energi version for all-electric weekend performance. Thus far it hasnt disappointed. Couple that with the fact that it appears as a normal sedan, and I was sold. My commute in DC Metro is usually a long one, which will inevitably tap the battery after anywhere between 16-20 miles. The economics of gas/electricity vs. price point of this car wont pay for itself against the Fusion Hybrid, but it is a convenience to not have my weekend in-town trips result in a fillup on Monday morning for work.