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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  Nice Car - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Michael - May 8 - 3:20 pm

  Overall this is a nicely done car. Styling is much more distinctive than the Japanese, but the mechanicals are still not as refined. The engine could use a bit more torque, but horsepower is good once you get the revs up. Interior is very attractive with the piano black trim - although Im concerned about scratches. Overall I would recommend it, especially since its several $1000 less than a similarly optioned Accord.

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  Nice Job Ford! - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By Fusion Fan - May 8 - 8:00 am

  Our Fusion is the base S model, and it is a terrific car for the money. The ride/handling compromise is just right, and the powerful brakes have excellent pedal feel. The body is solid and is quiet at speed for a mid-priced sedan. I was concerned that the 4 cylinder with automatic would be underpowered, but it revs freely and is just fine for a family car. Plus, the 4 gets respectable mileage and its light weight contributes to the nimble handling. The 5 speed automatic is good. We shopped Accord, Malibu, and Camry, but the actual selling price for those comparably equipped would have been $5,000 to $6,000 higher! The Sonata costs a bit more and lacks the sharp handling of the Fusion.

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  WOW!!! - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Erin - May 7 - 8:23 pm

  Bought mine last weekend and already have 400 miles on it. Just love the way this car handles. Interior is luxurious, and has great quality materials. Thought about Camry, Accord, and Altima. This car is 10 times more fun to drive, and has a distinct look unlike any of those. First domestic car Ive had in 8 years and WOW! Ford has dramatically increased quality, fit and finish, and performance.

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  Great Car! - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By dallas - May 7 - 4:00 pm

  I was originally thinking about an Impala or used Camry. I am very glad I chose the Fusion. I have averaged 32- 34 MPG on two lane highway, 29-30 MPG on interstate and overall about 27 MPG. We have one young child under a year old and have plenty of room for everything during our long trips home (~400 miles). The only drawback is turning radius which I was aware of before buying the car, but it does not turn on a dime, more like a nickel. I have 13,000 miles on it already and have enjoyed them all. I drove several late model Dakotas previously and this car is just as fun and enjoyable to drive. I recommend it fully.

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  first 300 miles - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By gt - April 30 - 7:23 pm

  Just got a 2006 V6 SEL with black leather interior and safety package and upgraded stereo. Overall a successful design. Handling is very good and it has a quiet and comfortable ride without being too isolated. Despite having plenty of power at the front wheels it still has a good steering feel and no noticeable torque steer. Ford succeeded in finding a good balance between handling and comfort. The optional perforated leather seats are very comfortable and look great to boot. However little design details display Fords lowest bidder supplier mentality: cheap plastic analog clock, no cabin air filter! (allows outside dust on black dash and vents), cheap looking instrument panel.

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  Buy one.Youll be surprised! - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By DW - April 29 - 11:16 am

  I have had my I4 automatic Fusion for a month and have 1500 miles on it; never been so happy with a car. Averaging 27.5 mpg with city driving! The car has great steering response, more like a sports car than a sedan. Sound system is top notch and the fit and finish is superb. I have owned 15 new cars in my lifetime and this car is at the top.

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  Best ford car yet - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By dannyboy - April 15 - 6:23 am

  A very fine inexpensive car, well built, excellent handling and fun to drive. Engine is smooth and powerful, wish it got better mpg, oh well. Sync is fantastic, luxury cars should consider adopting the system. Steering wheel controls are very handy, particularly the volume control, my hands never leave the steering wheel -- safe and secure. Heated seats are a must now as well, climate control works perfectly.

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  Love it - 2016 Ford Fusion
  By Michelle - April 7 - 10:33 pm

  This is my second Fusion I had a 2010, trading it for another vehicle was my worst mistake. It was a great car. So I had to have another Fusion a 2016. Love it, comfortable easy to manuver and an all around great car. The gas mileage is great. You cant go wrong with a Fusion.

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  Ford Did it Right - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Brian - March 28 - 5:13 am

  Purchased 2006 Fusion with auto transmission 4 cylinder. Handles very well, better than Accord or Camry. Very responsive and good braking - I have the ABS. Getting 29 mpg all the time. Good pick up and is an excellent passer even at 65 mph. I worked for Ford for 5 years and this is a better car than the Focus was when it came out. Only complaint is that there is some engine noise, maybe a little more sound insulation. All in all a very good car, my wife really loves it too and would like to get another one.

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  Cant be Beat - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By Ched - March 21 - 9:50 am

  I purchased this car after looking at the Camry, Accord, Altima, and G6. This car blows them all out of the water. You cant beat what you get out of this car. Especially considering it cost less them all its comparable counterparts. What can I say, Ford nailed it with this one.