Overview & Reviews

At its debut, the Ford Fusion was nothing less than a landmark car for the company. With the Fusion, Ford once again had a strong midsize sedan contender, something it hadn't fielded since the first-generation Taurus that debuted back in the mid-1980s. Savvy consumers have taken notice of the Fusion's spacious cabin, responsive driving dynamics, solid build quality and attractive styling.

In addition to its family-friendly features, the newest Ford Fusion provides a sporty, involving drive -- a rare quality in this segment and one that most folks can appreciate. Although we've been understandably even more impressed by the most recent generation, any Fusion should be an attractive choice for anybody wanting a comfortable, well-equipped family hauler.

Current Ford Fusion
The Ford Fusion is a midsize four-door sedan that's available in three trim levels: S, SE and Titanium. There are also the Fusion Hybrid and Fusion Energi (Plug-in Hybrid), which are covered in separate reviews.

The Fusion S and SE come with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 175 horsepower and matched to a six-speed automatic transmission. For the SE, there are three additional engine options. A turbocharged 1.6-liter four with 178 hp comes solely with a six-speed manual transmission. A turbocharged 1.5-liter four, also with 178 hp, comes solely with a six-speed automatic. And for maximum performance, a turbocharged 2.0-liter four makes 240 hp and only comes with the six-speed automatic but adds paddle shifters. The Fusion Titanium comes standard with the turbocharged 2.0-liter and an automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard across the board, while all-wheel drive is optional for the Titanium.

Standard highlights on the S include air-conditioning, the voice-activated Sync audio/cell phone interface and a four-speaker sound system with a CD player and a USB/iPod interface. The SE adds alloy wheels, a power driver seat, a rear seat center armrest and access to additional options, while the Titanium comes with a sport-tuned suspension, keyless ignition/entry, leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear parking sensors/camera, the MyFord Touch electronics interface and an upgraded sound system. Major options include a navigation system and an automated parking system.

In reviews, we've been very impressed by the latest Ford Fusion. The European-flavored driving experience we enjoyed in the previous generation is fully intact, meaning the current Fusion boasts a comfortable ride along with engaging, composed handling. The steering furthers this impression with its sharp, communicative nature. Furthermore, it's hard to go wrong with any of the Fusion's engine choices (not to mention the hybrids), but as expected the turbocharged ones deserve extra credit for their ability to blend spirited performance with impressive fuel efficiency.

Used Ford Fusion Models
The current, third-generation Ford Fusion was introduced for 2013. Compared to the second-generation car, this Fusion boasts more dramatic exterior styling, more fuel-efficient engines and the latest in electronics and features. These Fusions are identical to the latest version with a few minor exceptions. Specifically, the 1.6-liter was the only small turbo engine available and could be had with an automatic transmission. Also, inflatable rear seatbelts, a heated steering wheel and ventilated front seats were unavailable.

The second generation of the Ford Fusion was produced from 2010-'12. Compared to the original Fusion, it sported refreshed front and rear styling as well as more powerful engines. Apart from a few minor updates, such as blind-spot mirrors, a manual-shift feature for the six-speed automatic and one-touch up/down front windows, there were no notable changes during its run. As it retained the many attributes of the first Fusion while addressing its few weaknesses, this Fusion stands as one of the top used car picks in the midsize sedan segment.

There were four trim levels -- S, SE, Sport and SEL -- while engine offerings consisted of the base 2.5-liter four (175 hp), an optional 3.0-liter V6 (240 hp) and, for the Sport, a 3.5-liter V6 (263 hp). A six-speed manual transmission could be had on the 2.5, while optional for that engine and standard on the rest was a six-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive was standard across the board with the exception of the SEL V6 and Sport, which had available all-wheel drive.

Standard feature highlights for the S included 16-inch alloy wheels, full power accessories, air-conditioning and a stereo with a CD player and an auxiliary audio jack. The SE added 17-inch alloys, automatic headlights, a power driver seat and an upgraded audio system. The Sport included sport-tuned suspension and steering, 18-inch wheels, exclusive styling cues, power front seats, leather upholstery and the Sync multimedia voice control interface. The SEL also featured leather seating as well as heated seats and dual-zone automatic climate control. Options (depending on trim) include remote starting, a sunroof, a rearview camera, reverse park assist, a blind spot detection system and a navigation system.

This second-generation Ford Fusion had a nice combination of responsive performance and well-balanced handling and ride dynamics. Inside there was plenty of room, quality materials and handy features. The Sync system was a great feature, allowing easy hands-free operation of cell phones and portable MP3 players. The only notable downside to the car was its V6, which was rather ho-hum in light of other models' V6s that provided quicker acceleration and fuel economy.

The first-generation Ford Fusion was produced for the 2006-'09 model years. Initially offered only with front-wheel drive, the Fusion was offered in S, SE and SEL trim levels. The standard engine was a 160-hp 2.3-liter four-cylinder. When paired with the standard five-speed manual, this engine was peppy enough, but with the more popular optional five-speed automatic, the Fusion struggled to get out of its own way. The SE and SEL could be optioned with a 221-hp 3.0-liter V6 paired to a six-speed automatic, which improved the Fusion's thrust considerably.

However, both these engines were underpowered for the class -- especially the V6 -- and neither was particularly fuel-efficient. Inside, the Fusion had a more cohesive look than older Ford sedans, thanks to its crisp lines and coordinated textures. Build quality was solid and the seats were well-shaped and supportive, even for taller folk. Unfortunately, the quality of some plastics was still a couple steps behind the import-brand competition.

The following year brought changes that included standard front seat airbags, side curtain airbags and an auxiliary audio jack. Options like navigation, satellite radio and all-wheel drive were added to the options sheet, along with more standard equipment on the SE and SEL models. As such, we'd stick with this model year or later. For 2008, Ford's Sync system became available, although it was sullied somewhat by the Fusion's outdated standard stereo head unit. Antilock brakes became standard that year and more optional equipment was added, including the Sport Appearance package that included 18-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension and special trim. For 2009, stability control became optional on all Ford Fusions (we recommend finding one so equipped) and traction control became standard on V6 versions.

User Reviews:

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  Great Experience - 2014 Ford Fusion
  By waterdr1 - November 6 - 12:22 am

  Took delivery of a 2014 Black on Black Titanium with the 2.0 in March 2014 and have 20k on it as of Nov. I drive a lot and comfort, safety, reliability mean a lot. I have driven well over a million miles on numerous cars I have owned in the last 20 years as a traveling consultant and this is one, great car! Dont bother with any other power plant than the 2.0 IMO. Fit and finish has been perfect and it has not seen a shop other then oil and tire rotations. My only issue is I could use more trunk space and Ford does not seem to use very good all season tires. I will be putting snow tires on it this winter.

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  2015 Ford Fusion SE 1.5 - 2015 Ford Fusion
  By kevin1957 - October 28 - 6:42 pm

  Purchased new just a few weeks ago and have less than 1,000 miles. First impression: Wow! What a great driving car that gets great fuel mileage. One of the other cars that I considered was the new Chrysler 200, which I rented for a 3 day trip this past weekend. Sooo glad I didnt buy the Chrysler. The Ford is so much nicer to drive is more comfortable and gets better fuel mileage. No buyers remorse here!

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  Best car Ive ever owned overall - 2013 Ford Fusion
  By boboston - October 26 - 10:11 am

  I traded an 06 Ford Five Hundred for the 13 Fusion. I wanted a slightly smaller car with sportier handling and better gas mileage. I looked at and drove the Honda Accord, Mazda 6 and Nissan Altima while I was shopping. I settled on the Fusion due to its styling, and ideal (to me) combination of responsive handling, great ride and interior quiet. The other cars I drove are great choices, to me the Fusion was ideal. Outside of a recall, Ive had no problems with the car. T

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  40K, Love, Hate, Love - 2013 Ford Fusion
  By kraynlex - October 23 - 3:35 pm

  After 40K I can say that I generally I like the vehicle. I take issue with the alignment of (or lack of) with the trunk, rear taillights and exterior pillars (all of them). The transmission can be erratic as well. That said, I have not had any major issues, not even with Sync. I travel a lot and rent a variety of cars. The best testament to the Fusion I can give-I fall in love with it every time I get back in it, only to hate it in a few weeks, only to love it again after driving all the other crap. It is the best crap on the road as far as sedans go.

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  Never buy a Ford - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By momstractors - October 22 - 7:41 pm

  Bought the 2010 Fusion new, pile of junk, 3 door switches replaced along with Chinese lug nuts and emblem that was delaminating. Rear brake caliper locked up, covered under warranty, its locked up again but not covered under the 60,000 drive train warranty. I would think that brakes are an important part of the drivetrain. The brakes are not a new problem, they have plagued Ford on these cars for the last 10 years. The car rides like a lumber wagon, motor idles rough and trunk seal fell off. Car has been on the road for 3 1/2 years, 40,000 miles and I guess I can look forward to the throttle body going.

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  Frequent Renter/New Leaser @ 1,200 miles - 2014 Ford Fusion
  By oldsnwbrdr - October 18 - 8:17 am

  My last six cars included four Acuras and one Mercedes. And I am VERY pleased with how the Fusion feels when I drive it. I have the SE with the 1.5 ecoboost engine. Options include black 18" rims, MyFordTouch with GPS, sunroof, luxury package, and remote start. I really wanted a 2015 with the Terracotta package (love the color, and the package throws in the sports seats from the Titanium) but the deals on the 2014s were too good to ignore. Plus I loved the silver SE with black rims on the dealer lot. VERY sporty yet the ride with the 18" rims is fine (dont get the 19s as the ride gets jittery!).

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  Best car ive ever owned hands down! - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By captain_fluffy - October 15 - 2:04 pm

  I bought my 09 SE Fusion w/Sport Appearance package (18" low profile tire/wheels) with 23k miles on it. It was a lease out of Michigan and driven by some woman I can tell. It now has close to 70k on it, and it hasnt ever skipped a beat! I did get it stuck in the snow twice, so having FWD with no traction control can be a PITA, but other than that, the car is wonderful to drive. Handles corners beautifully, takes bumps just fine (even with the low profile tires). Im personally 61" and I fit into it like a glove.

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  Steering - 2011 Ford Fusion
  By 2011sad - October 9 - 12:38 pm

  I would tay away from this vehicle. With 55,000 miles on a car that I am still making car payments on a problem with the assisted steering has developon my 2011 Ford Fusion. I was told it will be about $2,000 to repair - money I do not have and a wish and a pray might get me reimbursed should Ford recall this. NHTSA is now investigating the over 940,000 complaints. A class action lawsuit has also been filed regarding the defective power assisted steering failure. I purchased thiFord after being a GM consumer for over 40 years. When GM stiffed me for rotting rusting brake problems on a brand new 2004 Silverado. I switched to Ford. I hope Ford does right by their customers.

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  THINK before you buy a Fusion - 2014 Ford Fusion
  By captain77450 - October 6 - 9:44 pm

  The plastic rear end has horrible quality. There are 3 or more defects in the surface around the rear license plate on all of these. The rear doors, the front and rear bumpers and the rear tail lights do not line up well. The front door interior arm rest extends into the A-frame and thus sticks you in the rear end every time you enter the car. Mine has < 1500 miles and has left me stranded TWICE, with a dead battery. When the battery is dead you cannot unlock your car or get into the trunk without breaking the front drivers door handle to expose the keylock. Even then you cannot open any other doors or the trunk. You cannot move it because it will not come out of park....thanks Ford.

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  Wont Stop Running - 2011 Ford Fusion
  By carrie77 - October 6 - 3:46 pm

  I bought my 2011 in 2012 it was a program vehicle. I love it and up until this year I had no issues. In May 2014 when I removed my key from the ignition the car motor was still running. I was able to put the car in gear and drive with the key in my hand. My husband pulled the battery cable to get the car to shut off. I called the local Ford Dealership and took the car in to check it over. They told me it was a bad battery, so I replaced the battery. In September 2014 the car started doing the same thing again. I took the car back to the same Ford dealership and they called the Ford Hotline and was told it was a valve. $88 later and my car still will not shut off, we have to pull fuses.