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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Fantastic Car - 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid
By dewiseone - January 27 - 6:07 amTook over 3 months from ordering to possession but was well worth the wait. My wife and I absolutely love the car. It is the most comfortable car I have sat in. It is easy for a large man 6 ft 285 lbs to get in and out of. We are only averaging 40.9 mpg. I know it is not 47 but blame the EPA and not Ford. They make up the rules for the test, Ford just followed them. I am happy with the mileage, how many other roomy mid size sedans can get over 40 mpg?
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Great Car - Good Job Ford - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
By wadere - January 11 - 1:06 amI have had the car almost a month. I was looking at cars all over the map (Infiniti G37, Prius, BMW 1 Series, etc.). I chose the Ford Fusion Hybrid based upon reviews and desire to try a Hybrid. Also, I liked it that Ford did not take a bail-out. Mileage is as averaged (41MPH on the first two tanks and 38MPH on my current tank). Plenty of power for everyday driving. The BLISS sensor had an error yesterday but after wiping down the side of the car it worked again. Lots of Tech (I got the 502 package). Driving it is like playing a video game - beware of distractions. Overall definitely a good choice.
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Marines Would Rather Drive A FFH. - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
By MoTard - December 26 - 9:43 pmIm a Marine who drives 100 miles everyday to work. I was in the market for a Hybrid because of that and it was between this, Altima, Camry, Insight, and Prius.. and Im very happy I chose a FFH. The size impressed me immediately, I didnt expect much from a mid-size sedan, a FORD one. Wonderful sparkling black paint. And once Im in, Im impressed by the soft, high-quality interior; And I own a 2001 Infiniti Q45 as well. Saves me so much money and power is most sufficient. A Prius actually coerced me and I left that stupid thing in the dust. Im glad someone made a hybrid that can fit my family, doesnt look stupid. A CAR first + Hybrid.
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Toyota owner...now Ford owner - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
By Frank B. - December 21 - 8:06 pmFord Fusion Hybrid is a grand slam! Vehicle is very well engineered (an engineer myself), very well built and looks great, not to mention great gas mileage. Long term reliability remains to be seen, but I love this car. Still have my Toyota, but now Im a Ford fan also.
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Happy so far - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
By Bob - November 16 - 8:50 pmI traded in my 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid after 7 years. The gas mileage for the Fusion is a little better in city (41 vs. 35-40), but a little worse on the hwy (38 vs. 45-50), but it has a more room, a lot more acceleration, its much more comfortable, and the handling is much better. Very happy so far. Hopefully it will be reliable. My hybrid battery on the Civic went out at 5 1/2 yrs, but luckily it was covered under warranty. The wouldnt tell me what it would cost, but the service recored printouts I requested when I sold the Civic had a list price of ~ $4,000 for the battery. Hopefully the price will come down before the Fusions goes out.
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Finally, A Winner - 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid
By singsong - November 8 - 7:47 pmIve stayed away from American branded cars for many years for obvious reasons. Owned a few Hondas between dear wife and me - never been impressed with those either. My latest ride is a Hyundai Santa Fe. Liked it just fine. Now I can boldly say that I love my 2011 Fusion Hybrid! Have had it for a month now and just loving it. The ride is comfortable, quiet with plenty of gadgets and great A/C and no lack of passing power when needed. Test-drove the Sonata Hybrid and was disappointed with all but the looks. Glad I picked the Fusion.
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Many bad experiences - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
By tpacarman - October 24 - 12:23 pmBought the Fusion hybrid new in 2010. In four years have had two major issues, causing the car to render itself dead. The first time was in the middle of a multi-lane bridge with fast moving traffic, with a stop-immediately warning, leading to seconds of active time before car had to be pulled into shoulder. Towed, charged $500 or so. Two years later get another message "service power steering now" and the car again is unstartable. This time Ford service is quoting $1800 plus a diagnosis fee.
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Uncomfortable on long drives - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
By lektrik - October 21 - 8:13 amOverall the Fusion is a very good car with state of the art technology. Ive gotten 52 mpg around town and 41mpg on the highway wile driving within the speed limit. When I drive faster, as I normally do the average is 35mpg. I sold a 2003 Taurus to purchase the Fusion and that car was much more comfortable on the highway than the Fusion and got 27.5mpg. Overall I have mixed emotions about the Fusion. A highy touring car its not, A city or suburban fuel champ for its size it is!! Overall, if highway driving is your major miles I would opt for something like the new Taurus. If running errands aroud town and stop and go traffic is your day than the Fusion is an excellent choice!
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Like it a lot - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
By tominva - September 4 - 3:23 amThis is a solid car. Comfortable, quiet, smooth ride. Handles well. Plenty of passing power (for my needs, anyway)
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Ford has stepped it up - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
By maxpower220 - September 2 - 9:00 amTraded in a Volvo S60R. The FFH has at least as good fit and finish. The FFH is definately more quiet on the road. Sync is awesome, easy to use. Navigation is great. Gas milage is very good. My wife is a home health nurse who drives everywhere for work. Hwy mileage so far is 34 and city has been 36. She does a lot of paperwork in her car sitting still with the A/C on in FL. With "carefull" driving, we get well over 45 in the city. Best short trip (10 miles,city) was just over 51. Short trip info is from car computer. Avg mpg is based on miles/tank. Overall extremely happy with the car. We havent missed the Volvo at all. As gas prices increase, it seems like a better deal everyday.
