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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  Ok Car - 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Tuko - April 14 - 6:05 pm

  Just turned in 2013 Fusion Hybrid at end of 3 year lease. Nice looking car. Pretty good mileage averaged around 41 mpg over the lease term which isnt bad but not up to advertising. MySync was a pain in the butt to get working properly. Trunk space severely limited by battery pack. Main complaint was the 13 gallon gas tank. Prior Fusions/MKZs hybrids had the standard 17.5 gallon tank. So, even with the great mileage, I was still having to fill up more often. After lease was up, went out and purchased a used 2012 Lincoln MKZ hybrid with the larger tank. Same great gas mileage. Good looking car. More pep than the Fusion for whatever reason. Maybe fill it up once per month. With most hybrids, mileage is better in the city than on the highway. Winter weather also takes a toll but heck, any car getting in the high 30s to high 40s in gas mileage is pretty good and for my two cents, the MKZ/Fusions look a heck of a lot better than a Prius. One more issue... passenger seat was not adjustable. Passenger feels like he/she is sitting in a bathtub. If buying used, make sure car has power passenger and driver seats.

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  Best hybrid on the market - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Eric - March 12 - 5:46 pm

  Ive driven the Prius, the new Lexus, the Highlander, and the Civic Hybrid. In terms of ride quality and performance, none of the other hybrids are as good. The transition from electric to gas is seamless, the vehicle handles well, and accelerates quickly and quietly. Im getting 40 mpg on average, and I drive aggressively. Consumer Reports data now overwhelmingly confirms top reliability for this car, and I know a number of other people who own them. I am very suspicious of the below reviews regarding reliability problems. Are these Honda and Toyota employees?

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  Best Car I have purchased in years! - 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By terryauto - February 24 - 6:53 am

  Flawless! I have owned just about every make of car from high end US, European & Asian models to entry level cars and trucks. I own 6 different cars and trucks and collector cars. It is fair to say I have experienced many different technologies. My Fusion Hybrid SE is loaded with all the options and has been flawless. At first the mileage was in the mid to high 30s and after 1500 miles I am up to 43mpg. The key is to take into consideration your driving style, road conditions, wind conditions. One thing i quickly learned was to use the cruise control as much as possible as it really helped my mileage. I am very impressed with the build quality, ride and performance of my Fusion! Love it!

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  Learning how to drive all over again - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Juris - February 17 - 7:56 pm

  Received car less than 1 week ago, after 5-wk wait from date of order. So far its everything I expected. No production laws. I am excited by the "game" of driving efficiently, and the electronics in this car give me lots of tools to work with. The car handles beautifully and is surprisingly responsive when I need to accelerate. Holds the road very well. Though still has just a bit of a sporty feel. Xlnt brakes, no "hybrid" feel to them. Interior appointments are very sharp. I love Fords Sync system -- which accommodates the phones of everyone in the family (Bluetooth), as well as gives ample connections for iPhone/iPod, USB. (Bonus: I get a 110 V receptacle for my computer.)

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  very happy - 2014 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Rick - February 3 - 10:30 am

  I live in the San Francisco bay area and have a round trip commute of 80 miles. I have put 20,000 miles on the car. I bought it used with 20,000 already on it and have not had one problem. Averaging 45 mpg. I use mid grade gasoline and I pay $30 to fill up (San Francisco bay area) couldnt be much happier. At 40,000 miles the car runs the same as the day I bought it.Update: my car is over 60,000 now and still running great. Averaging 46mpg but this could be due to the tires wearing low providing less rolling resistance.

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  Best Hybrid on the market - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By himiler - December 8 - 7:56 am

  No two ways about it the Fusion is the BEST HYBRID. With 4100 miles its averaging 44 mpg. Just ran 1200 miles almost all highway with AC on at an average speed of 65 mph and got an astounding 44.3 mpg around town even better at about 49 mpg. Unbelievable!!!

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  Luxury Features without the Luxury Price Tag - 2015 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By ladylou - November 24 - 7:58 am

  I owned a 2011 Fusion Hybrid and when I got the new car itch, I decided to opt for a 2015 model. I have not been disappointed. Im averaging 45.8 mpg city and 43 highway in real-life driving situations, an improvement over the 2011 model year. Acceleration is quick when needed, and the car is quiet while in motion. The engine makes just enough noise to let you know when it switches over from electric to gas so you can tweak the gas pedal for better mileage. If you bend your left leg while driving (vs. keeping it straight), it can be difficult to find a comfortable position for your foot because of the way the floor is designed. A ridge on the floor makes it hard to situate your foot and leg.

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  Mileage fix a lie - 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By dnoel71 - November 18 - 12:05 am

  Last weekend I went and got the "update" regarding my Fusion Hybrid SE that was supposedly to help get better gas mileage as I drive almost 80 miles a day for work. Unfortunately it appears that instead of my mileage going up it is now going down!! I used to get anywhere from 37-41 now for the past 4 days of driving to work I have yet to even reach 37?? If someone else has gotten the update could you please let me know if the same thing is happening to you before I call and complain to Ford over this. I purchased this car specifically for the mileage promise that is a solid 10+ miles less mpg than promised.

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  An absolutely great car - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By jeff_h - November 10 - 5:43 pm

  I sold my Prius after over 100k miles, lost 10MPG but gained a FAR better ride and features. Ive had the car for 4 weeks and 3,000 miles and I am very pleased. The sticker MPG is 41/36 and after 3,000 miles of mixed driving my MPG is 39.8 which is pretty darn good. Sync is great, I think the sound system is also great, the backup camera is very handy too. Whether the added price is worth it for the hybrid, each consumer will have to decide for him/herself. The $1,700 tax credit is valid until 9/30/09, it defrays some of the extra cost. Bottom line -- if you are considering a Camry/Prius and dont test drive this first, you need a "kick me" sign on your back.

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  Great Car But... - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By taxdoc - September 21 - 9:06 am

  Love the car. Sync has a lot of issues with smartphones. Doesnt do all that it is suppose to. The seats have very little support and I am seriously considering replacing them with Recaro seats.