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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  A very well built appliance, comfortable, solid, but not fun to drive - 2015 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By barton - July 4 - 9:08 pm

  I have only 500 miles so far on the car, and I intend to update this over time. So far I am getting 42.5 MPG in mixed driving. I have rented 2014 Nissan Altimas, several Priuss, and lots of Camrys.The Fusion Hybrid (2015 model) is better built, quieter, more refined, far more comfortable, and more sure-handling on corners than any of those cars-and it is not even close. But where the Fusion falls down, and perhaps all hybrids do, is in driving fun. My comparison in test driving, and for making the Fusion decision, was the VW Passat TDI (Diesel). I have heard that car gets a legitimate 38-40 MPG. And the Passat is a lot more fun to drive. But I picked the Fusion for higher reliability.

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  great car - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By SailorBodine - June 20 - 8:00 am

  I have driven over 3000 miles with an average 41+ mpg. The dashboard display trains you to drive conservatively to increase MRP, but anytime more acceleration is needed, you can get it. The car isnt as fun as my Passat in terms of cornering and shifting, or my old Mercury Mystique (I miss the 5- speed!). However, the Fusion handles very nicely - - I often corner it sharply to avoid braking at low speeds, and it is very stable. The SYNC system makes up for driving more conservatively -- Ive been listening to podcasts downloaded to a USB thumbdrive.

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  An excellent value, superior build quality - 2015 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By barton - June 2 - 8:42 pm

  Yup, I know its a cliche joke but my other car actually is a BMW 530i, which was once named by Consumer Reports as the best car they ever tested, period. So my standard for comparison is different. And I really do appreciate the excellent value that the 2015 Fusion Hybrid offers. This is only a 1600 mileage report, but so far the build quality seems superior, no rattles, and it takes some of my BMW-type throttling over bumps quite well. The seat comfort is excellent for the price range, much better expected. My combined gas mileage is 43.9 MPG overall so far, versus the rated 42 MPG . The touchscreen info system is okay, no issues. Not BMW handling, but it is predictable and seems safe.

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  MPG NOT GREAT, EVERYTHING ELSE IS GREAT - 2014 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By BILL - May 17 - 11:21 am

  Currently getting about 38 mpg with a hybrid, but I drive fairly hard.

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  Great But... - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By RoughRider - April 3 - 4:03 am

  We have had the car about a month and a half. For the size of vehicle it gets good mileage. Traded in a Highlander Hybrid. Seems to be a fairly well designed vehicle. The back up camera is far superior to the Toyota and the BLIS system is great. For all the wonderful features about this car, it rides like a tank. Took a trip from Portland to Seattle and back. By the time we got home, my wife and I felt beat to death. Have discussed ride issue with Dealer and FMCO, but apparently that is the way the car is designed. You can tell this is a 4 cyl. engine, but with the electric assist it still moves.

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  Top Dog - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Ford Fusion - March 24 - 4:06 am

  I drive to Prescott and back to cordes, so I only have highway miles, my best mileage is 42+ and my lowest is 39.5. I fill my tank once a month. This car has made a Ford person out of me with a four cylinder that has good power although I do not push it, it has made me smile when I have had to use the passing gear. This car is something special and Ford should push it`s quality because it is there. I have made my best decision and I have never owned a foreign car and do not care for them, buy American.

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  Love the look and feel, but not the MPG - 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By pkhannon - March 15 - 11:59 am

  I purchased a Fusion Hybrid SE 4 weeks ago. The car drives great, handles turns with ease, and accelerates decently for a 2.0L. The seats too are very comfortable and the look of the car is fantastic. The MPG however isnt even close to the advertised 47/47. Ive put 1500+ miles on the car and my best MPG is 38. In order to try to get better MPG, Ive totally changed my driving habits, accelerating slowly, keeping the car at 60 on highways, breaking so that I get 100% power return, etc....I recently read an experts review and they noted better mileage in warmer temps. Maybe..but I also saw that Ford is being investigated by the EPA. I still love the car but the MPG is disappointing.

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  Great value with low ownership costs - 2014 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By swhitehorn - March 9 - 1:58 am

  I bought my Fusion SE Hybrid on 2-26-14 and am averaging 40.5 mpg so far. My trip odometer states that I traveled 415 miles on this tank and I still have more than 1/4 tank left or about 160 miles to empty. Keep in mind, this is only a 13.5 gallon tank, NOT a 17 or 18 gallon tank, like many of its non-hybrid competitors. Basically, the tank holds 40-50% less gas than, say a Nissan Altimas 18.5 gallon tank. The Fusion rides very smoothly and quietly, much more so than my 2008 Honda Accord EXL V6. I paid $24,178 (including the $150 document fee) plus taxes and title. This is $3,913 off the MSRP of $28,100. I financed the car at 1.65% thru RBFCU in San Antonio for 48 months.

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  Comparison of Fusion to Camry Hybrid - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Carolyn - March 7 - 5:53 pm

  I recently totaled my 2009 Camry Hybrid and I replaced it with the Fusion Hybrid. While i think the camry may have more comfortable seating the fusion blows it away on options. The navigation system is far superior and the BLISD and sync functions are great. This car has a more sporty feel than the camry.

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  The best American Car on the Road - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Andrew - February 1 - 12:30 pm

  Yes, I know its made in Mexico, but this is a home run for Ford. I get 600 miles a tank in town. I live in a part of the country that can be flat for the most part and this definitely helps MPG as I can coast quite a bit. This thing flat out rolls! It has no engine braking down hills so it can take off like a soap box derby racer. The SYNC system works flawlessly with my iPhone. Sound quality is great from the Sony speakers. I cant complain about anything so far other than a little bit of yearning for a better seat. Very satisfied with the purchase.