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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  my favorite car in years - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Doug Kuyers - July 11 - 4:26 am

  Easy and fun to drive.This car turns heads.

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  Love driving it...when it starts - 2015 Ford Fusion
  By Byron Hazard - July 10 - 1:13 pm

  I have the SE 1.5 Ecoboost. In terms of the engine, it is either eco or boost, never both. I have achieved as high as 45 MPG when doing mostly highway driving in good weather. Driving in colder weather and/or with a heavy foot will bring you down to around 27 MPG. My car says my average is just north of 33 MPG. Acceleration is good once the turbo kicks in when in sport mode as long as you pick the correct gear. While the 1.5 is not much faster than the 2.5, it feels faster and more spirited; it is absolutely worth the extra $800. The drawback to the small displacement motor is that added weight decreases acceleration dramatically, but since I drive solo most of the time, its not a big deal. In regards to the select shift, it is not instantaneous, but shifting .5-1.0 seconds before you want it to shift fixes that issue. The ESC on this car is amazing. The traction control is good, but not so good that you cant easily spin your tires if you step on it (unlike my previous 2014 Mustang that couldnt spin ever). While being easier on the throttle, the TC works great in the winter. Overall, the handling is superb. In the comfort department, I have zero complaints, and I am 6 4". I have taken this car on 14 hour trips and it is amazing compared to other vehicles, especially Ford Super Dutys. The overall design and technology that this car has is wonderful. Now onto the bad. I have had at least on of my windows frozen shut almost every day this month with no visible ice on them. Also, the trunk likes to freeze up as well. I have never had a car so prone to freezing up, but the temperature has fluctuated higher and lower than the freezing point a fair amount this month in WI. The largest issue that my car has is a parasitic draw on the battery. It has been dead five times in the 21 months that I have owned it, once in as short as 12 hours. Ford cannot diagnose the problem, so they extended my warranty, but will not give me any real incentive to get me in a new car. That being said, I am going to cut my losses (resale value sucks, trade-in is half of MSRP in less than two years) and get a 2017 as soon as the normal rebates are higher because when I buy a car, I want something that starts up every time. The Fusion is a wonderful car, and there are plenty of perfectly functioning ones out there, and I hope for better luck next time.

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  Love My Fusion! - 2016 Ford Fusion
  By Tina Marie - July 9 - 11:01 pm

  Not too much..Not too little.. Love driving this car its like riding on a cloud..Perfect size for our family..Also a little sporty..Everything I was looking for.Young and Fun

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  Slick and Dynamic fo a American made Car. - 2014 Ford Fusion
  By LS - July 2 - 11:06 am

  It is a great smooth riding car, I was so surprise what this 4 cal Car can do. Be difference after owning a Car with a V-8 Engine.

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  TOP NOTCH! - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By TAH4LATR - June 17 - 2:50 pm

  The Fusion has been a great car. It is fun to drive, comfortable, and gets great gas mileage. I recently went on a business trip and averaged 36 mpg! The Fusion has been trouble free with only routine oil/filter changes and inspections. The looks great in and out and is an outstanding vehicle to drive in everyday.

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  missing its mark - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By why - June 11 - 3:16 pm

  This car is not equipped as good as a lot of other cars, no outside temp, no mist on the wipers, lots of plastic inside, very cheap. The fabric on the seat - everything sticks to it. If my dealer would have been sure this is the car I wanted, instead of just a sale, maybe the SEL was the one I needed. Looking around for a good deal to trade it off, will not buy another Ford. Power is Ok. Its mine, I bought it, will drive till I get a good deal on a new car. Selling factor was 72 months at 0%. Just to let you all know, this is my 25th new car,and the only one I am not happy with, not all bad but a bad choice for me, at $22,000 lots of better choices out there,

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  Cant believe its a Ford! - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Carlhk1 - June 11 - 11:20 am

  I traded in my Audi A6 when the warranty was up on it. So, ok, I downgraded a little...but by how much? NOT much. I love this car. I bought the SEL V6 loaded. Its hot looking, more than peppy, great lines, nice interior, and it has so many features built in I cant believe its a Ford! I only wish it had the Homelink for my garage and an optional sport shift (I have the Automatic) . The car is clean, more room than my Audi had, great gas mileage, FLEX FUEL, not premium, mp3 leather, etc. Handles nice, I am very happy. Until you sit in it, drive it, and look at it, you wouldnt have thought Ford could do it. But when you drive it and do those things...you will buy it. I love it!

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  Surprising -- won me over vs. Accord! - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By Michelle - June 9 - 11:36 pm

  OK, I admit it. I was leaning toward the Accord. But the Fusion won me over. Its a lot of car for the money! Handling is crisp and clean. Comfortable but a good feel for the road. Interior appointments (leather, dash, etc.) are very nice and stylish. The car looks beautiful too. Many of my friends are impressed and surprised its a Ford. Given the savings over the Accord (I saved thusands), I am more than happy with this car. The 4-cylinder has plenty of power, but the fuel economy could be a little better. other than that, I am very heppy. Its peppy and fun to drive.

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  Glad I chose the Fusion - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By meemersmom - June 3 - 10:26 am

  Decided on the Fusion over Sonata, Jetta TDI, and Mazda 6, and am I glad I did. Im impressed with the quality of the fit and finish and the looks --- this is not like the Fords of years past. 6-speed manual is fun to drive w/ a crisp shift. Ford really built a winner with this vehicle. As the owner of several foreign-made vehicles in the past, I am glad to see an American manufacturer build something to compete with (and even beat out) Japan and Germany.

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  When God gives you lemons, make lemonade - 2015 Ford Fusion
  By paul - May 21 - 11:22 am

  I am one of the unlucky people that got a lemon. Thankfully, its a lease and they will get it back soon enough. The car is haunted with some kind of electrical problem. On three occasions, weve come out in the morning to go to work, and the car is totally dead. Towed to the dealer by Ford Roadside Assistance (a joke at best, but thats another story), and the battery was supposedly defective. Replaced the battery, and that lasted a month. Next two times, ....they cant find anything wrong. I suspect some sort of parasitic drain, but what do I know. We are just going to try to get to the end of the lease, and get rid of it. Hopefully, my wife will not get stranded, or worse, injured. We were Toyota people for years with no issues. We wanted to "buy American", so we switched to Ford. Guess thats a fail. (Warning...DO NOT let a tow truck operator use a hammer and a wood wedge to jimmy open the driver door enough to get to the inside handle. Theres a little access latch right behind the exterior door handle......yes...this really happened!!) BTW, I could not select the proper model from the drop down menu as it wasnt listed. Its a SE, 1.6 liter ecoboost