Overview & Reviews

For the most part, the pickings in the midsize hybrid sedan segment are fairly mundane. One exception is the Ford Fusion Hybrid, a sedan that offers better fuel economy than its main competitors while also being more enjoyable to drive.

Though driving enjoyment typically isn't high on the list of a hybrid buyer's list of priorities, the Fusion Hybrid delivers an unusually lively experience behind the wheel. If you're shopping for a new or used hybrid-powered sedan, this Ford should definitely be near the top of your list. Its unusual combination of solid driving dynamics and superior fuel economy, along with its good looks, comfortable ride and accommodating interior, makes it easy to recommend.

Current Ford Fusion Hybrid
The Ford Fusion Hybrid is a midsize four-door sedan that's available in three trim levels: S, SE and Titanium. There is also the plug-in, extended-range version, called the Fusion Energi, which is reviewed separately.

The hybrid powertrain consists of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine working in concert with an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack. All told, there's 188 horsepower on tap along with impressive EPA fuel economy estimates of 47 mpg in all three cycles: city, highway and combined.

Standard equipment highlights on the S include 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, the voice-activated Sync audio/cell phone interface and a sound system with a CD player and USB/iPod interface. The SE adds a keyless entry keypad, a power driver seat, a rear seat center armrest, satellite radio and numerous options. The Titanium's highlights include 18-inch alloy wheels, remote start, keyless ignition and entry, leather upholstery, heated front sport seats, a power passenger seat, the MyFord Touch electronics interface (with configurable gauge displays), a rearview camera and an upgraded audio system. Key options include a navigation system, adaptive cruise control, automated parking assist and blind-spot detection.

In reviews, this Fusion Hybrid impressed us with its athletic handling and communicative steering that provides a more engaging driving experience than you'd expect from a fuel sipper. At the same time, the ride is supple over bumps and ruts, the cabin is supremely quiet and Ford has made strides in making braking effort seem more natural: a previous complaint with the Fusion and indeed many hybrids. And while the trunk is compromised by the presence of its battery pack, the remaining space is more useful than that of rival hybrid sedans. If there is a primary drawback, it's that Ford's electronic interfaces are less unintuitive than other systems.

Used Ford Fusion Hybrid Models
The current, second-generation Ford Fusion Hybrid was introduced for 2013. All told, Ford managed to take all the attributes of the previous Fusion Hybrid -- notably, excellent fuel economy, sharp styling, sporty handling, a smooth ride and plenty of handy features – and bolster it with more dramatic exterior styling, improved driving dynamics and the latest in electronics and features. These Fusion Hybrids are identical to the latest version with a few minor exceptions. Specifically, they lack the availability of the S trim level, inflatable rear seatbelts, a heated steering wheel and ventilated front seats.

The first-generation Ford Fusion Hybrid debuted for the 2010 model year and ran through 2012. It was a midsize sedan that employed a 2.5-liter inline-4 gasoline engine paired with an electric motor and a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack to produce 191 hp. The power was sent to the front wheels through a CVT. Along with a fuel mileage estimate of 39 mpg in combined driving, this Fusion Hybrid had the ability under low load conditions to propel itself to nearly 50 mph on battery power alone.

The handsome cabin sported quality materials and a wealth of standard features. The latter included 17-inch alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, the MyKey system (limits top speed and audio volume), a keyless-entry security code pad, automatic headlamps, dual-zone automatic climate control, power front seats and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. There was also the Sync electronics interface (includes voice commands, Bluetooth and iPod control) and a six-speaker sound system with CD/MP3 player, satellite radio and steering-wheel controls. Options included a rearview camera, a premium audio system, a sunroof and a navigation system with Sirius Travel Link.

In reviews, we were pleasantly surprised by the Ford Fusion Hybrid's well-sorted chassis. It's not a sport sedan, but it is sportier than you'd expect a hybrid sedan to be. Granted, you'll get even better mileage out of cars like the smaller Honda Insight and ubiquitous Toyota Prius. But when you compare apples to apples, the first-generation Ford Fusion Hybrid is an excellent choice for a used hybrid family sedan.

User Reviews:

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  The Hybrid for Skeptics - 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By b25nut - September 29 - 7:46 am

  I’ve never hit a home run or flown first class, but I feel like I have now. I really couldn’t be happier. I would have to spend $25,000+ more to get a car that would provide me with more satisfaction. But then, I’d feel guilty for spending too much money. I didn’t buy my Fusion expecting to get 47 mpg. I don’t drive the way it takes to get that. I currently get 40 mpg on my 10 mile daily commute. The Fusion will entice even the most stubborn driver (like me) to drive more efficiently and safely. This is my first time driving a Hybrid, and I’m hooked. Ford has made my transition so easy. Up to now, I was one of those who always said “I wouldn’t be caught dead in a Prius".

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  Pleasant surprise - 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By pumi1 - September 27 - 12:04 am

  I used to have a Ford Escort and a Ford Expedition and my experiences with them made me hesitant to try the Fusion. They were both reliable but uncomfortable, squeaky inside, and the road and wind noise made my ride anything but fun. The Fusion is nothing like them. It is extremely quiet and smooth. The seats are supportive and comfortable. The handling is top notch and since I got the fully loaded version, I have all the fun with the heated seat, navigation, and hill assistant among others. I have almost 1000 miles in her and I get the following fuel consumption. Going by 60-65mph = 45-47 mpg 65-70mph = 40-42 mpg Over 70mph = 38-40 mph Apparently, Ford doesnt want us to speed.

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  Fun to Drive - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Russ - September 17 - 2:56 pm

  Ive had my 2010 Ford Fusion for about a month and it has been fun to drive. Well have to see how it perfoms over time. A few things Ive noticed so far is the large front grille is plastc chrome and easily prone to scratching. Also the package I have includes rear park assist and it has gone emitted a continous beep on several occasions when absolutely nothing was to the rear of the vehicle. Other than that the fuel economy is great and the vehicle will stay in EV mode even with the A/C on.

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  Cheaply made car at a premium price - 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By David Smith - September 11 - 12:41 pm

  Ive had this car since October 2013 and over 70,000 miles. It has had at least four unique recalls and now a fifth that took over a year for Ford to figure out how to repair. The trim is very cheap and general craftsmanship is poor. The gaps between fenders and the both the hood and trunk are variable by side. The trunk is so far out of line its noticeable from a distance. The front end bottoms out and comes off on the sides. There are rattles throughout the car, but especially in the drivers side rear door. The gas mileage is substantially less than expected. It runs well though and brakes really well. Handling is good. Generally, it is a comfortable but small feeling car. Overpriced with rapid depreciation.

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  Amazing Vehicle - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Michael C. - August 31 - 7:46 am

  I am impressed with what Ford has designed and built. Mine also came with the 502A Nav package. My iphone worked without a flaw with the sync via the bluetooth for the phone and the usb for the songs. The car does handle and feel like a luxury car. Smooth and quiet ride with a strong positive feel. The controls are easy to use and the feature list sounds like a Lexus. It is impressive that a car with this much volume and power gets 35+ mpg in the city. I was originally going to purchase an Accord but after reviewing and testing the Fusion Hybrid I believe I made the better choice. The Honda is a good car but no comparison to the quality, feature list, and mpgs of the Fusion. Thanks FORD.

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  Awesome! - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Tom - August 30 - 2:03 pm

  I have owned this car for about a week now and love it! The base model has all of the bells & whistles I could want and my mileage is exceeding my expectations so far (I am averaging about 43 so far). While fuel economy is great, I dont feel like I am sacrificing performance or speed. Test drove a Prius and Camry Hybrid before buying the FFH and can honestly say the FFH is in a class of its own

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  Hybrid that doesnt have drawbacks - 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By neevers - August 21 - 7:23 pm

  I came out of a Ford Mustang GT, my first american car, in to this car, because I wanted something more practical, I was originally looking at getting the 1.6 with the manual, but decided on the hybrid instead after running the numbers. Well Im really happy! So far Im averaging 45mpg, though currently the car only has 360ish miles on it. Its comfortable, carries a lot, its fast enough, though not a sports car by any means, super smooth, its really great, and of course its absolutely gorgeous inside and out. I have the luxury option so its leather and the My ford touch option, mainly because I think the normal dash looks a little cheap. I was a little scared of the MFT, but its great!

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  Eye Catcher! - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Stitches26 - August 12 - 10:00 am

  I bought my fusion hybrid brand new in July 2010. Must say it caught my eye right away on the lot. I really wanted to buy the new Taurus. But I took a look at the gas mileage and said next. The car is very comfortable and fun to drive. Pricing was great for a loaded car being hybrid. the only think i dont like is that the side mirrors do not fold in. it would be nice for when Im parking in the city. also needs a better turn by turn direction system. i just use my own gps.

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  Poor Gas Mileage - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By enternewid - July 8 - 12:32 pm

  We were getting over 40 mpg the first 4 months we owned the car, then mileage dropped to 28 mpg with no change in driving habits. Took it into Ford and they gave the song and dance that there are no error codes so they cant do any thing! So much for auto mechanics being able to figure out a problem. My guess would be a bad fuel injector or oxygen sensor being bad, but not enough to show a code. I did put in some injector cleaner even though the owner manual says not to. This actually helped and increased the mileage to about 32 mpg average. BFD I can be driving on the straight and level and the MPG gauge bounces up and down for no reason. After buying a new Mustang in 1988 and having injector problems that Ford refused to fix, I told myself I would never buy another Ford. Well I was stupid and bought one anyway.

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  Awesome car! Quiet, Comfy and 42.5 Avg MPG! - 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Steve McCown - June 24 - 3:47 pm

  Updated 12-7-2016 I now have 82K miles on the car and have had no mechanical issues with the car. I still love the ride and overall comfort of the vehicle. The fold down rear seat has come in handy for transporting 10 foot lengths of PVC and baseboard trim when our other vehicle is busy. :-) I would highly recommend this car to anyone. Ford has a real hit here. BTW my lifetime fuel economy is 41.7 now and I have a heavy foot! I purchased this car as a work vehicle. I am a salesman who needs a comfortable ride for myself and clients. The Fusion Hybrid SE has been the perfect fit. The car is quiet and road noise is minimal. I have owned mine since May of 2013 and have driven it 68K averaging 42.5 mpg. Rear seat passengers always comment on the comfort and roominess of the rear seating. The 2.0 liter hybrid engine has plenty of pep when you need it and the CVT is smooth. My wife is not a "car person" and prefers trucks and SUVs but has stated on many occasions that she "likes" the Fusion. Overall I really love this car! Positives: Great styling, comfort, quiet ride, great handling, fuel economy, responsive, front and rear seats are very comfortable, auto adaptive cruise is a great feature, fold down rear seat is handy when shopping or carrying long or bulky items. Negatives: Bluetooth voice commands get garbled and people you are talking to on the hands free have trouble hearing you when climate control fan speed is above 40%. I have had to turn off/down the fan to make a hands free call or use voice command gps navigation.