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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  2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid Hits Another Homerun! - 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By revjamesl - June 7 - 6:00 pm

  Can Ford get any better? I had a 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid Limited and it was a tremendous car. The 2013 Fusion Hybrid is that much better. Where do I begin? The style of the car is high end, and agree with reviews that it resembles Jaguar and Aston Martin. Very sleek exterior; nice interior. Have always been a fan of the Sync system and its easy-to-use interface. Spacious interior provides plenty of room and is very comfortable. It advertises as getting 47/47 mpg and I have to say I have been getting into the 50s in city driving with ease. Im never been much for red cars but the Ruby Red is beautiful and fits the design of the car very well.

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  I LOVE my Car! - 2014 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Jeanette Cano Hernandez - May 30 - 10:01 pm

  I purchased the Ford Fusion Hybrid SE

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  The Best - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By tkirkman - April 25 - 5:30 am

  I purchased my hybrid last mont and had not a clue how far Ford has come from the days of my Ford Vans and Mustang. The car surpasses my expectations and we call it it our American Benz. All the comfort and features you could have in a car for less than $30,000 I would recommend this car over my BMW.

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  Im In Love - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Paula - April 11 - 12:20 am

  Less than a week of ownership but this is an amazing car! Was amazed by the quality and handling of this car and Eric Flores at the dealer was fantastic. Ive already written a letter to Alan Mullaly! Was not looking for a hybrid, but am averaging 39+ ON THE FREEWAY! This car replaced a 2000 Toyota RAV4 with 241,000 miles. Toyota didnt even come close as a replacement consideration. Tested Chevy Equinox, Malibu, Toyota Camry, Corolla, Matrix, RAV 4 and Prius, Nissan Altima, Maxima and CUBE and Honda Civic, Insight and Accord. Ford blew them all away. Youve to drive this car!

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  Its a salvage title and it did awesome - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By matt - April 8 - 1:03 am

  I liked it. you have to game it to find the best MPG. Which is good for people who are ADD? or who need some added stimuli while driving. The gaming is not a distraction and actually got me to watch the road more. Great daily commuter and 4 passengers fit in great. Sync and stereo is very important to me. sync had some issues and can get annoying but will work well. Speakers bass etc are great. Better than my 2006 toyota sienna XLE. blue tooth is nice. camera is nice. ambient lighting is nice but unnecessary. because you get in and drive. Seats are important. I drive a 2013 explorer at work and the seats are better in the fusion. Owned a 2010 non hybrid Camry before fusion. Camry was an XLE and the wood trim popped and so the inside was nicer. Ride was soft compared to the fusion. Fusion is more sporty. not sure what I like more. Stereo was similar. My Fusion gets 33 in winter (Minnesota) and 35-36 in summer. I can get 38 MPG to work and 40 MPG back if I game it (20 miles each way). averaging approximately 60 MPH on the highway.

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  A good start - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Chi-town-er - March 24 - 3:46 am

  After my Acura finally broke down, it was time to get a hybrid. So far, everything has met expectations. While not a great performance car, it has adequate pickup and meets all other requirements of typical driving. The interior features are a step above what one would normally expect from a mid-price Ford. Sync, Sirrius with 30 presets, decent speakers, rear-camera, side-view warning, etc should go a long way to winning a new generation of Ford buyers.

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  Great Car! - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Jim M. - March 11 - 12:20 pm

  I am about to reach the 2,000 mile mark on my Fusion Hybrid and Im very impressed! I drive 2008 Camry Hybrids at work and this car beats the Camry in several areas. The CVT trans is amazing and the car is a pleasure to drive. I love the smooth quiet ride with the sure-footed handling of a performance vehicle. The standard six speaker, six-disc sound system is very nice and I have come to LOVE the Sirius Satelite Radio. I coummute 110 miles per day and average 38 mpg which is oustanding for a vehicle of this size and comfort level. - not to mention the high average freeway speeds of about 75 mph. Ford has really come up with a winner with the Fusion Hybrid.

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  White Platinum Tri-Coat Georgia Gem - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By wilcox - March 9 - 3:51 am

  Built in June 2010. Bought 4 months later. A high priced left-over. Had everything for MSRP 33.4k. Paid 29k(tax incl.)out the door, so gave it a star for Year-End Value! It is almost perfect. Absolutely no regrets...~so far~. Mileage, comfort, handling, suspension, brakes, dual zone climate controls, electrochromic rear view mirror, reliability, all great. Several persons asked if it was a Mercedes or an Audi? We own a 2007 Mercury Mariner Hybrid AWD and knew that the Fusion Hybrid could be our family sedan and wed like it. So two Ford Hybrid products in the garage. Goodby to a great 96 Camry and well let son use the 06 Accord for college.

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  I Bought a What?!?! - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By saulio - February 21 - 2:43 pm

  Purchase was seamless. Had X-Plan thru son so price was great! Just finished first tank and the numbers dont lie: 15.846 gallons, 613.6 miles (about half/half city/hw), 38.8 on computer, 38.72 by my numbers. Much better than EPA in city, about EPA on HW. I drive pretty hard and still learning about Hybrid but mileage is a relief. Got the 502A package, White bc of sons (this generation LOVES white?!?!). Real beauty is that it drives like a sedan. I have owned Hondas for the last six years and I could not believe this is a Ford. Comfortable, QUIET inside and out, sits High, SONY Sound System ROCKS (according to sons). So not only am I happy but my sons think Im cool again--PRICELESS!!!

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  Sold on hybrid tech thanks to Fusion - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By drlake53 - February 10 - 3:07 pm

  Loved my three years with the Fusion Hybrid. Great mileage the whole way through averaging about 5.4L/100kms. Its got great power for a car that you dont really expect it from - great on the highway for passing and a bit of fun in the corners too. Had fully loaded model and the tech you get for this price is absolutely unbeatable. This is the best value for a used car out there now if you can find one with all the goodies - The used car market has taken out most of the premium for the hybrid so you can pay nearly the same as any old Fusion and get great power, unmatched amenities, lots of fun, unreal mileage and still not pay much.