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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  Lovin my 2006 Fusion - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By owen - January 14 - 12:16 pm

  I love my new Fusion. I skipped my nursing class and went out and bought this car.

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  I can’t see the front of my car well - 2016 Ford Fusion
  By Yuzhen liu - January 4 - 7:52 am

  It’s hard to see in front of my car , the distance between other cars

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  Great to switch back to Domestic - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By brian - December 19 - 2:23 am

  I have been a die-hard Honda buyer until I drove this car. The styling is beautiful, offering unique colors and never-before seen grill and head/tail light designs. It has plenty of interior room and a great trunk size. SEL with premium and safety package and leather seats, VERY well stocked and still $3-4K less than a base Honda or Toyota in this class. Very quiet ride, good at quieting wind and road noise. Fun features, fun controls, very classy look and feel at a good price. Well built and easy enough to work on. This is a gorgeous car and I would recommend it to anyone. I bought this as my first new car, intending to keep it through college and into the real world (then Ill buy Lexus!).

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  Is it a Ford? - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Ariel Lopez - December 17 - 4:00 am

  Actually, so far I get everything from "is it a BMW, Saab, Volvo etc.", except Ford. All Ive had is great complements on my Fusion. It really feels like you are driving a European car. Great on gas Ive been getting around 28mpg, city and highway combined. Ive had no complaints so far. Love driving this car.

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  Owned 3 months - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By George - December 16 - 2:23 am

  V-6, FWD. Drove to Durango, Co from Denver across the Rockies & averaged 30 mpg. Old car was 2004 Honda Accord EX, V6. Ford is quieter, has as much acceleration, a smoother ride, better gas mileage, and a bigger trunk. It basically cost the same as the Honda did 5 years ago. I got the Moon & Tune package and there is great sound from the speakers. Good traction in snow (I have snow tires on). I went to dealer and asked if he would meet edmunds price and he did--no haggling. I have about 2,800 miles on the car and so far I have no complaints. A very nice car for under $25,000.

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  Reliable! - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Vincent - November 26 - 11:57 am

  Bought new and now have about 90k miles. No major issues, just periodic normal items like (batteries, filters, oil and tires). Sync system better than our 2011 hondas which looks like its 5 years behind the times. Looking for restaurant on your trip, just ask and its nearly google like (though still could be better). Other systems give me locations that arent even the same state. The biggest thing for me is this car is fun to drive for a daily, I still like the looks even though its probably dated now and it has been reliable. The only item that appears to be wearing prematurely are the upper front suspension bushings. When they need to be replaced they will squeak and make noise. In my case it was the left upper A arm, which is a relatively simple replacement. If things continue, Ill be happy to keep it another 60k miles!

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  I-4 S pros and cons - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By FISHER - November 19 - 12:30 pm

  Pros: I-4 (4 cylinder, 175 hp) has good acceleration (Im used to V-8s in big cars). Excellent turning radius. The seats are very comfortable. The trunk room is good. Cons: at 61", I find the shoulder belt to cross my upper body below my left shoulder in my most comfortable driving position; this is a definite drawback. The rear deck is high and limits visibility to the rear. There is no rear perimeter alarm to compensate for this. The numerous control buttons must be memorized for use while driving as they are small and the labeling is small.

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  2013 Ford Fusion SE 2.5 L - 2013 Ford Fusion
  By Jay - November 8 - 1:28 am

  I will tell you this car drives great and its very comfortable and peppy for it to be a 4cylinder. Now the bad I am spending a total of 60 dollars a week in gas and only stay 8 minutes away from the job . Please reconsider in buying this car its not worth it and also my windshield wipers are getting stuck when they are turned on after 5 minutes smh. Do your research and proceed with caution.

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  Fun and Affordable - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By VJ - November 7 - 5:36 am

  Had a Ford 18 years ago in high school. Since then not very excited about the line up. My buddy who works for Ford said "just get in to one" I test drove the Fusion Sport and was so impressed I purchased it. The only negative was the Eagle RSA tires. You give the fusion some gas and the tires squack instead of grab. I immediately replaced them with my favorite tire Michelin Pilots. Climate control buttons could be angled better. Fun car pretty good gas mileage (27 HWY, 18 city so far). Definitely a car to consider.

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  Great Car - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Chris - November 1 - 1:53 pm

  Bought this car in Atlantis Green which I highly recommend. This car turns heads. Quick and comfortable. With only 300 miles on it I am averaging 17 mpg but that number is going up. Handles very well but dont mistake it for a Corvette. SYNC will take some time to learn but gives you a wealth of features and information.