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:

• 

  We love it. - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Ed - February 18 - 8:03 pm

  We chose the Fusion hybrid over others after wed decided the other hybrids (esp. trunk capacity) were not spacious enough for our family. We liked the sync tech and the styling over the Camry. Was a little nervous that the Fusion Hybrid was so new, but very happy with it over a month! We can get in the high 40s if we try but overall with mostly city driving were getting about 37 mpg.

• 

  Love it! - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By krennis - February 5 - 3:50 am

  I have had my Fusion for 3 months now and love it! Im averaging 39.9 miles per gallon and thats a combo of back roads and highway. Its comfortable, handles well, and doesnt feel any less powerful than a gas powered car when merging or passing on the highway. I was a bit intimidated by all the technology at first but once I know how to use it - its great and my passengers are always impressed. I dont regret my decision to trade in my Honda for this car at all!

• 

  Good job Ford - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By jmalik1 - January 18 - 4:00 am

  Ive had this car for about 3 weeks and have 1000 miles on it now. I am very happy with vehicle so far. My average fuel efficiency over this period has been 41.1 mpg with sensible driving (not hypermiling). I have had shorter city type driving trips of ~55 mpg with very careful (hypermiling type) driving. I belive if one drives the Fusion Hybrid without paying any attention to the fact that its a hybrid then the average fuel economy is probably going to be about 36-37 mpg. From a feature set point of view this vehicle has a lot to offer. I have owned a Toyota Prius before which I liked a lot but Fusion is just in a different category. Its unfair to compare it to a Prius but thats my only p

• 

  My first Ford.........ever. - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Father Greg - October 25 - 7:00 pm

  This engineering marvel is intelligently designed, fun to drive, and comfortable for my six foot frame. Since I do lots of city driving, the hybrid gives me 40+ miles to the gallon. I purchased a two year extension on the bumper to bumper warranty, and therefore plan to put the Fusion (my first Ford ever) thru a lot of work. One possible concern is how well this hybrid will hold up in the super cold Illinois winter.

• 

  Lovin going green - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By pippin65 - October 25 - 2:00 am

  Love this car. Absolutely love it. Want another one. The SYNC will probably be much better on the 2011

• 

  Best Hybrid Sedan To Date - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By John W. - September 17 - 9:00 pm

  I loved the sync system and the ipod sync. The built in navigation is great also. I used to fill up twice a week with my old car, now I only fill up the tank once a week. I would never buy a car without a back up camera now. It will help you get into those tight places in the city.

• 

  Amazing Car - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Brad - September 3 - 3:03 pm

  We purchased the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid in September 2009. Weve been a Honda family since 1991 and were initially leaning toward a 2009 Honda Accord EX-L. The Honda dealership was across the street from Ford so we decided to check out the Fusion Hybrid since we heard it was nice car. Once we drove it we were sold. Great ride--super handling, quiet, solid feel. The biggest advantages over the Accord were the high tech features. The navigation system, SYNC, and blind spot awareness system are fantastic and either werent offered or simply were nicer than Hondas. Mileage has come in at 38.5 so far in combined driving. Im really impressed by Ford now. Amazing car...

• 

  12 months after ownership driving Uber - 2014 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By jjtexcali - August 9 - 5:10 pm

  I put a lot of miles on it under a wide variety of conditions. I live in Southern California, so the only thing I cannot attest to would be significant changes in weather. I bought this car with a rated MPG of 47/47. Ford sent me a check for $750 when they corrected the ratings. For the amount I drive, this did not cover the amount in savings I had anticipated, but I guess its better than nothing. Its a beautiful car with a minimal amount of problems. It feels like a boat and takes some getting used to its size. The departure angles on inclines/declines is not good due to the air dam. My front paint has already began to wear on the front bumper from so much driving.

• 

  You need to know how to drive a Hybrid. - 2014 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Al - July 29 - 6:39 pm

  If your going to drive without regards to mileage this isnt the car for you. Its totally different the gas only. When you come to a stop light ride the brake softly 500 feet before you stop. Regenerating brakes slow down the car gradually. When you stop at the last minute your brake pads have to grab the brake rotor causing them to wear out like a normal car. If you use brakes properly you should never wear out your brakes. On short trips to the grocery store 2 miles car will not get high mileage because the gas motor is not warmed up yet. Your efficiency goes up the longer stretch you go. The car loves 55 miles per hour. I get 48 to 50 mpg. On the freeway I get about 40 plus on short distances. From Melbourne Florida to Savannah Georgia I get 44 to 45 mpg. Here in Florida the hot weather affects mileage also so I keep the air con. @ 75 degrees, why not my house is 78 normal in Florida. This helps greatly since the air draws a lot of electricity. Advantage of Hybrid no leaky transmission only a reliable belt drive, change oil every 10, 000 miles never need a starter motor because hybrid motor starts the car instantly. Way less maintenance than a gas only vehicle. I forgot to tell you when my wife drives the hybrid she gets around 36 mpg. She guns the car a lot when it doesnt need that and slams on the brakes at the last minute. The gauges on the dash show how many gallons used, how many miles on EV Electric only which is about 50% of the time. Also when you get more miles on the gasoline motor and get it broke in it will make a difference, Id say 30,000 it should be broke in. I save about 35 to 40% on gas used average. Hope this helps you.

• 

  Better than my Acura TSX - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By RickInSanDiego - June 18 - 3:46 pm

  I truly believed that no car would ever be able to beat out my 2004 TSX in terms of fun-to-drive quotient, luxury and quality. Well, I was about to trade in my 2004 TSX for a 2009 until I saw this new Ford. Finally a car from an American car company that I can be proud of, not just settle for. My friend who will "only own a Mercedes" drove with me last night and said he is going to buy one when his lease is up in a few months. This says a lot (if you knew my friend). The ride, stability, quiet interior, fit & finish, both inside and out are all major pluses. The turning radius is much smaller than my old TSX. I only have 250 miles on it and Im averaging 40.5 mpg. Good job Ford.