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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  I love it! - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Pam - March 7 - 5:50 pm

  Ive had my Fusion for 3 weeks now and I just love it. The Fusion handles well, its fun to drive, its comfortable and it looks really good. My husband added a rear spoiler and now it looks even better.

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  Fusion Sport - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By scott - February 21 - 9:00 am

  This car is very nice, great looks inside and out and a very nice ride. I drove the Honda Accord, whats up with the road noise could not stand it, drove the Mazda6 to big cheap inside, drove Nissan Altama a let down felt cheap. The Fusion sport is very solid and great to drive it continues to grow on me.

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  transmission - 2012 Ford Fusion
  By Tracey - February 21 - 2:50 am

  I agree with the other transmission review. Just purchased an used 2012 fusion se and noticed that when you first drive, the transmission seems confused and kind of stutters for a few minutes.

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  The Camry-killer! - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By misterzero - February 18 - 6:43 am

  I have owned two Fords in the past and two Camrys (00, 03), all of which have essentially been completely trouble-free. The Camrys have had excellent rides, but the thigh support and awkward steering wheel placement always left me very uncomfortable, especially on long drives. I test drove a number of cars on the market, including the Accord and Altima, and came back to the Fusion, as it has a ride very comparable to the Camry, and the interior is much better than the Camrys....much more comfortable. I bought an SEL V6 with Moon & Tunes and leather interior. I now have 1,200 miles on it, and the car has not developed any rattles or squeaks.

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  2016 Fusion, back again for second tour - 2016 Ford Fusion
  By Paul South NJ - February 16 - 11:53 am

  I own a 2012 Fusion SEL with 162,000 miles which was a CPO, as is this car. It has been excellent and virtually trouble-free and it was time for a newer vehicle. I drive 40,000 miles a year for my sales job and comfort and reliability is paramount to me, along with an American brand when visiting jobsites that are riddled with Ram, Ford, and Chevy/GMC pickups. The last Fusion was Mexican built (as most are) and my new acquisition was built in Flint Rock MI. My 2016 is an SE with FWD and the 1.5 4-cylinder Ecoboost (no option was available in Edmunds to pick that model). The car has the Luxury and Tech packages, plus a sunroof, so its practically a Titanium save for the 2.0 Ecoboost motor and no Sony radio - but this unit is upgraded to ten speakers and sounds very good. This kept the price thousands lower due to the SE tag. I was nervous about the concept of Ecoboost when it first came about, but now about 5 years later feel comfortable. The car will not win any drag races, but its certainly adequately powered. No turbo lag that I can discern. I intend to run K & N air and oil filters and full synthetic Valvoline oil to help with power and turbo longevity. The aftermarket Fram air filter is $23, the K & N $50 and can be washed to reuse, so I figured, why not? The Fusion has a personality, unlike the Accord and Camry, with a sporty feel, and the touchscreen interface (now upgraded in 2017 models onward) is not tough to master despite some rough reviews on the various car websites. I do miss the large knobs of the 2012 Fusion radio, but at least this unit still has them. Also, the touch buttons of the climate control and seat heaters were changed to real buttons in 2016, with redundancy in the touchscreen as well. I am a big fan of the turn signals within the side-view mirrors, and the auto-dimming drivers side view (and rear view) are godsends to me at night. But I miss my change drawer----yes, some of us still pay cash for tolls and parking meters! The sunroof shade is still flimsy, but at least there is no "bleed" of light through the leading edge anymore. LED interior lighting is a big upgrade. The basic leather seats are excellent so far. New headrests are a giant improvement. I think the electric steering is a bit overboosted and provides less road "feel" than before. Center console, door pockets and glovebox are all substantially increased in capacity. Trunk is deeper but a bit narrower due to the old-school hinges for the lid. The headlights are outstanding and a huge improvement, even without using the fog lights. First tank of gas MPG was just under 30 with mostly highway driving at 75-80 MPH. I had it as high as 31 when I was keeping to 55-60 on country roads.

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  Worst car Ive owned in 20 years of driving. Run. - 2015 Ford Fusion
  By Russ D. - February 10 - 3:17 am

  Loses 50% of value in one year. Shifts horribly. Particularly from 2nd-3rd, as well as down shifting on down hills when applying the brakes. Not at all the time, but enough to make you flinch, expecting it to lurch you forward in your seat. Didnt happen during test drive or I definitely would not have purchased. Took it to dealer, was told this was "normal behavior" for this transmission and handed a print out of internal service bulletin ststing the same. Note to Ford: If you get so many complaints about an issue there is an ISB created for it, perhaps your definition of "normal behavior" should be reevaluated. Cheap feel to materials on interior, especially the doors. When you press on the door to exit, it just feels like dry-rotted foam behind it. Doors dont seal well, lots of dust/dirt spring through fall, doors freeze shut in winter. Trim doesnt line up, just a general lack of attention to detail. Rides smooth and quiet, perhaps the best on those 2 items of any car Ive ever owned. Beyond that...Beautiful aesthetically, useless functionally. Begrudgingly looking to trade in despite the huge financial hit.

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  Very good car, horrible seats - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By GBW - February 10 - 1:03 am

  Ford did a great job. Love the ride an handling. With 18" wheels, it holds curves like a sport sedan. Put about 2500 miles in the first month, w/ 27 mpg for my commute. Sony stereo is fantastic. Lots of space. Like the Synch system for hands free phone. The front seats are horrible. Cant find a comfortable position, even with 8-way power adjustment. I like the headrest, which most people dont. But my lower back hurts all the time. The cushions are hard and the back is too narrow. Im 63", 190. Tall but not large. The seats are bad enough that I am considering replacing the car after just one month. Too bad, otherwise its an excellent car.

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  Best Ford that I have bought - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By nettenette - February 2 - 2:30 am

  I just purchased my 6th Ford vehicle and even though I havent had it for long it is my favorite. In recent years I have mostly been in the suv/truck mode but was ready for a change. My husband didnt want me to get a 4cly engine but when he drove the vehicle he instantly changed his mind. Plenty of get up and go. The car is beautiful and filled with enough bells and whistles to keep me clued to the owners manual to get educated. Good going Ford!

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  207 Ford Fusion - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By Dave - January 24 - 3:03 am

  Fast accelerating, tight turning capability. Exterior design is beautiful. And fairly inexpensive.

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  Dumped My Accord - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Miller - January 19 - 2:20 pm

  Ok, I was skeptical, but my co-worker said. "I like this better than your Honda Accord" after bringing one by for a long test drive around lunch time. I said, "No way, it is a Ford!" After spending a little time with this car in the parking lot, I decided I would go back with him to the dealership after work and test drive one myself. This car is great and I DO like it better than my Accord. Plenty of power, great responsiveness, nice materials, and pleasing to the eye. My dealership added a rear spoiler that really makes it look great! Love this car. My first American car in 15 years.