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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  Impressive vehicle - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By Bill D. - March 26 - 11:53 am

  Test drove a SEL Fusion after driving a 2007 Altima. Not only was the Fusion $3,000 less, but it has all wheel drive. The Fusion has a great ride and handles great, probably due in no small part to the premium tires. During a recent snow storm, the car performed great on frozen slush and ice. The audiophile/Sirius sound system is also terrific (much much better than the Bose system in my Murano). The fit and finish of the car are every bit as good as the Altima. The only flaw Ive found is a little flashing on the door panel. Controls are logically placed and the ergonomics were well thought out. The heated leather seats are very supportive and comfortable. Another plus is the large trunk.

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  Blown Away By New Ford Fusion! - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Kenneth Stango - March 25 - 9:36 pm

  Wife purchased a $62,000 BMW, What a MISTAKE! I kid you not, this Fusion ride and overall comfort are better. I am stunned over the quality of the car, and hooked on the BLIS system.

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  A sedan that drives like a sports car - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Lee Zimmerman - March 16 - 11:03 am

  This Fusion replaces a Mustang GT. With the 2.3L/5-speed manual, it feels like Im still driving the Mustang. Plenty of power for powering away from traffic lights. Plenty of leg room in the back seat and a huge trunk. Great styling in the front, only so-so in the back.

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  Best American Car Around - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By Darryl.G - March 13 - 3:09 am

  I have a 2009 Ford Fusion 4 cylinder and Ive owned this car the last year and Ive had nothing but good things to say out this car. I bought it last October with 200xxx miles. It now has 314xxx thats right I said 314,000 miles and its still working like horse. The only things I had to do is replace the serpentine belt and get a wheel alignment other than that I havent had to touch anything else. Just keep the oil changed and youll be set like a arrow. Heat still blows hot and air is still ice cold.!! If and when I do get rid of this car itll be 2011 all wheel drive but this car has shown be no signs of even thinking about giving up. I have nothing bad to say about this car other than the front and rear bumper sometimes coming apart on the sides. I would recommend this car to anyone young or old.! Its meant for everyone. One of the best cars Ford has made thus far that Ive seen

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  Fords Best Car - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By rizer - February 26 - 10:56 pm

  Ford has come through with an awesome car. I traded in a Taurus for the Fusion. Actually went to buy Five Hundred and test drove Fusion and was hooked. Every time I drive i get people asking me what kind of car is that. Everyone thinks it is a Mercedes or Cadillac and it costs far less. Best car I have ever driven and everyone that has seen it says they want one; awesome car.

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  06 Fusion - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Sadak5357 - February 15 - 11:43 pm

  Ford has done very well with this model. The car has a very aggressive line, and the interior design is the best Ive seen from Ford yet, in the price range. The 4 cylinder engine is plenty, combined with the 5 speed auto transmission. Very classy looking. This is what they needed to help get Ford back near, or on top.

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  THIS IS WHAT COOL LOOKS LIKE - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By JOY215 - February 15 - 9:53 am

  This car handles so precisely that its fun to drive. I was ready to trade in my beloved Bonneville (2000) and got a really good deal. The factory incentives sold me, not to mention that my husband sells Fords! I love the style, both inside and out. Interior is very roomy and comfortable.

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  coming out of a VW GLI - 2015 Ford Fusion
  By Gregg - February 11 - 12:38 am

  all around poor experience with this car. performance is terrible with the small 1.5 liter motor pushing 3500 lbs. from a start probably one of the most anemic engines Ive ever experienced- only when the turbo kicks in does it finally get up to speed. pitches and rolls entirely too much entering and exiting an onramp. poor tire and brake wear ( at least compared to cars I have experienced in the past). The car has had a continued water leak in the truck which the dealer cannot figure out. The car is too big for a midsize. This isnt the easiest hunk a junk to park in the mall parking lot next to your Civics and Audis which are all a foot or more shorter.

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  Ford Got This One Right - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Conyers,GA - February 1 - 2:00 pm

  Thought I was going to by an Accord but glad I went back to my American car. Have driven this car for about a month and I love this car. The handling and comfort is great. The stereo cranks. The gas mileage is great, I went to Birmingham this week from Atlanta and without A/C was getting 34.5 mpg; on the way back had A/C on got 32 mpg on highway. This car is so quiet and smooth just a joy to drive. And I find myself cruising around 80 mph and doesnt feel like it, its so smooth. The I4 has plenty of get up and go. Kicking it down was impressive.

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  Throttle Control-2010 Ford Fusion - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By DALE - January 30 - 9:00 am

  I Purchase my Ford Fusion the last week of August. The 2nd week of Sept, 800 miles later. The wrench sign lights up and the vehicle will not drive over 20mph. I stop the vehicle for 5 mintues. Everything starts up fine, and a few minutes later the wrench lights up again and the car will go only 10 mph. I take it to Ford with the check engine light on and the wrench light on. The Dealer replaces the Throttle Body Assembly. I pick up the vehicle and the next day the same thing happens again. I take it back and they can not find anything wrong with the vehicle, they even drove it for 30 miles. So I go pick up the vehicle today and before I get home(4 miles away), the wrench light comes on.