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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  Love My Fusion! - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Michelle - August 19 - 7:16 pm

  I have had my Fusion for almost a full 3 months now and I like it just as much, if not more, then when I first got it. I got the V6 SEL, fully loaded and even had a remote starter thrown in. Its a quiet ride. The Fusion has quick acceleration with a growl I only wished my Mustang had. The steering is responsive and the car brakes on a dime. Its got good suspension - I dont feel the bumps like I did with my Mustang. Traction control works good in the rain and snow. No slippin and slidin. The trunk is huge, which only means I can shop more now! The 8 speaker, 6 CD/MP3 player sounds great. I have nothing bad to say about this car. Ford did a great job and made a fun car that I love to drive!

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  Great ride - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Buzz - August 17 - 8:00 pm

  Ive had it for almost 3 months now and its still fun to drive. Instant power and handling response is awesome. Previously been driving a 4 cylinder 2.4 liter PT Cruiser but this time I wanted something with more power, at least a V6 engine. I was thinking of Lexus IS350 this time but that costs considerably more. I buy my vehicles through military car sales so I had a limited choices in what I can buy. Luckily they had one blue Ford Fusion Sport in stock. At first I was skeptical about the color but the color grows on you more and more. I am totally satisfied with my 2010 Ford Fusion Sport purchase. I think this car definitely has value. I no longer wish for the other car.

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  My third Ford Fusion, and I love it! - 2016 Ford Fusion
  By SimplyChad - August 13 - 9:26 pm

  This is my third Fusion. I had a 2014 Fusion SE. I traded it for a 2016 2.0 turbo with the appearance package. I love this car! The engine is way better, its more powerful and quiet, it feels like driving a V6. The 18" black alloy wheels, rear spoiler and fog lights do make the car look nicer. I honestly recommend to get the car with the 1.5T or the 2.0T engine, because its a better ride than the 2.5. Make sure you get all the features you want on the car so you have no regrets. The cash back incentives were unbelievable on this car.

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  Karyn - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Karyn - July 28 - 2:46 pm

  I traded in a SUV for this car and this is the best car I have ever driven. I get so many complements on it and a lot of looks. I think this is the best car Ford has.

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  2010 Fusion - Drive One! - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By pmoore4 - July 25 - 6:36 am

  Just picked up my new Fusion after waiting since ordering on 12/11/08. Wow, was this vehicle ever worth the wait. This is the quietest, most solid feeling vehicle Ive owned to date. Love the exterior styling changes, love the new interior. This is the car I always wanted Ford to build. SYNC is an amazing feature, I dont think I could live without now.

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  They should have done better - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By EeeZee - July 24 - 3:33 pm

  Styling aside, it seems like an earnest attempt by Ford to build a solid and practical car for comfortable urban driving. Unfortunately, they are not paying attention to the fine points that their competition thrives on such as exterior finish and attention to detail -- points that have been the downfall of most domestic manufacturers since the imports started eroding their market share. Call it sloppiness or inattention, the car has obvious defects easily seen by any sighted person. Picked a new Fusion SEL two weeks ago with bad paint on the hood, an obviously deformed interior door handle, and misfit or misaligned exterior parts.

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  My SEL Fusion - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Rob - July 24 - 2:16 pm

  I bought my Fusion five months ago and wanted to wait until I had it for awhile before giving a review. I have 15000 miles on it and have had no problems with my Fusion. I think Ford has built a capable car to compete with other midsized cars in its price range. The V6 engine is acceptable for the size and weight of the car. I average about 28 mpg. I have been driving long distances mostly highway and the ride is very comfortable.

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  First Ford ever! - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Ryanboy - July 23 - 8:33 pm

  Impressive car that won us over with its comfort, solidity, safety record, gas mileage and fun quotient! We have the smooth-shifting 6-speed AT. Tested a few mid-size sedans; came down to Accord (when will Honda ever install split fold-down rear seats?), Mazda6 (a blast to drive but odd "tiger lounge" interior fabric) and Fusion. The Fusion won in part because we wanted an attractive car (like Mazda6) that doesnt look like every other car on the road (like Accord). Have put 5K on in two months (double our normal mileage) in part because its now our regular "go-to" car--so fun to drive!

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  Honda Bruiser - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Jim - July 20 - 2:16 pm

  First thing great gas mileage, good interior and design. Much more bang for your buck than Honda. (you wont lose it at the mall with 1000 other accords). I had an 2008 an the upgrades make this a much better car.

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  You had me from Hello - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By R-TDC - July 12 - 11:03 am

  I absolutely love my Fusion. Its very roomy, handles well, and just loves when you open the throttle. I have the Monochrome Appearance package, and I love the individuality that I have. A winner all around!