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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  No Regrets! I LOVE IT! - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Happy Mommy - May 6 - 1:10 am

  After lots of researching, test driving, and comparison shopping, Ford beat out the Toyota Camry (didnt care for interior), Honda Accord (high price)and Chevy Malibu (bulky). The new Fusion design caught my eye and I was so surprised it was a Ford! Safety ratings are fabulous! The seats are so comfortable, and I love the interior. The dash lighting is updated and even the "chimes" are enjoyable. SYNC is GREAT! It really drives so smooth and turns easy The V-6 is powerful, no hesitation at all. HUGE trunk space, and that was important downsizing from an Expedition. Just because I am a mom, doesnt mean I dont want to look sporty. I am excited to drive it, and have no regrets!

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  This hybrid is amazing! - 2012 Ford Fusion
  By E Meyers - April 18 - 2:08 am

  I drive this car as hard as one of my prev cars 2001 Camero SS. Obvi not the power nor performance of a corvette engine but, the hybrid is a smooth running , quiet and with Sony surround kills the rest of what I might hear ;). Bought used 2 yrs in and now having it over 2 yrs still LOVE THIS CAR!

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  Great Little Car - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Fusion Gal - April 11 - 2:23 pm

  Have had no problems even though it is a new model and early in production. One issue we had was a broken side mirror that was easily corrected. Have had a couple of times when it took a couple of times to start.

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  Nice Car But Beware the Lug Nuts! - 2016 Ford Fusion
  By Daxer - March 27 - 3:21 am

  2016 Fusion SE, 1.5 liter turbo, owned for 18 months and 44,000 miles. I wont repeat in detail what most reviews have addressed: The Fusion is a very nice care and a great value. Its comfortable, easy to maintain, and fuel efficient if driven conservatively -- I routinely get between 38-40 mpg @ 60 mph of state highway driving. There is a drivers side dash rattle that developed at about 40K point that I cant seem to isolate which is driving me a little nuts but overall Im happy with my Fusion. HOWEVER, my main reason for this review is to highlight a problem many might not be aware of with the Fusion (and other Ford models) and that is the lousy lug nuts which can (and do) deform. Rather than use a solid steel lug nut Ford uses a steel core with a chrome or aluminum cap. With repeated removal (like when rotating your tires) the caps deform to the point where you cannot get the lug nut wrench (or a 19mm deep well socket) over the nut. If this happens and you get a flat out in the middle of nowhere, youre screwed. You wont be able to change the tire and will have to call for a tow. Ford blames people using an air gun and over torquing the nut. It also tends to happen when folks use a 12-point socket instead of a 6-point socket. But I always use a torque wrench and hand torque to Ford specs and it happened to me. Fortunately I discovered it while the vehicle was sitting in the drive and not on the shoulder of I-75 with a flat. My advice is to simply replace all of your lug nuts with one-piece nuts at your earliest convenience! You can get a set of 20 for about $30 and its well worth the peace of mind. I went to three auto parts stores in my town (NAPA, Carquest, OReillys) and they were all aware of the Ford lug nut issue. In August 2017 a class-action lawsuit was filed in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan to make Ford own up and replace the nuts (google Ford swollen lug nuts).

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  First New Car in 15 Years! - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By ScottLee - March 23 - 9:53 pm

  This was the first new vehicle I have purchased in almost 15 years. I fell in love instantly. Styling is excellent. Mature, yet sporty. Handles like a dream. Power, even in the 4 cylinder feels equivalent to the V6 Tauruses that I had been driving. Great fuel economy, fun to drive, quiet riding stylish. Bottom line is when I am behind the wheel I cant help but feel young again!

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  Great Car For The Money!! - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By John - March 22 - 10:10 am

  After looking at everything out there in this class, there was no comparison to the quality and extra features that Ford put into this car. I drive 104 miles round trip to work every day and this car is making LA traffic more enjoyable. The road noise is minimal and the handling, braking, bluetooth and Sync all make me feel very safe. I was looking to buy a 2009, but after seeing the new dash design and all the great improvements to the 2010, I had to have it. The power of the 2.5 vs the 2.3 is obviously better. I am very happy with the 28 mpg I am getting in the stop and go city driving. I cant wait to take it on a long road trip to see the mileage. All in all I have no complaints so far.

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  Just a fun ride! - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By bob78 - March 21 - 4:00 am

  - what a car - excellent ride and handling, really nice interior, quiet, solid feel and a smooth, powerful engine. This is a fun ride which has an elegant, high-end feel to it. The SYNC system along with the Sirius Radio are also great features. I got over 200K trouble free miles on my Taurus and hope this Fusion is just as reliable. The Camry and Accord cant touch this car when it comes to value for your dollar.

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  great car - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By David - March 10 - 5:20 pm

  I love this car very much. I have had it for about 3 months now and have put nearly 5000 miles on it. I got the very base model with automatic transmission as the ONLY option, and it is still a very comfortable car to ride in. Long trips are great in it because it is quiet, the sound isnt bad at all (for the base model), and it really did get me 32 mpg from New Mexico to Oklahoma several times. I checked myself. This is a fun car to drive. It is peppy, and It has much more go than I expected from a 4 cylinder. I highly recommend it.

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  Best car in its class! - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By bobbyXcore - March 10 - 11:03 am

  I bought mine today but I have done lots of research and drove almost every car in its class/price range. Its definitely the best. The 07 Accord seemed cheap and had a horrible sound system. It looked like my friends 1999 Accord in some ways. The Camry was too plain and felt like driving a boat. The Altima and Maxima werent bad and to me are under rated but all in all I felt like giving my money to the Americans. Every American car bought helps are economy it really does. I recommend this car to everyone.

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  One generation newer, many steps up - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By twoblondes - March 8 - 11:33 am

  What a step up this car has been. I am that point in my life I want a nice car and for me that is the Fusion. This car gets 22 mpg overall, as long as I dont drive too hard. The power is excellent, the handling is great and it looks awesome. This is not the perfect car, but it is the best for the price. The fully loaded V-6 (less nav.) went out the door for less than $24,000. This for a car that is safe, relaiable and fun to drive. Fellow Sync users will say "how did we live without Sync till now", I agree. A car without Sync is barbaric at best.