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:

• 

  I Love It! - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Lonny - April 25 - 8:13 pm

  This car is amazing, It has plenty of power for normal driving and the engine/transmission is super smooth. I have gotten great mileage, if you drive the car normal you will achieve the posted gas ratings if not better, I have. The car is super quiet on the freeway and the ride is smooth as well.

• 

  SMART CHOICE - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By LOVINTHEFUSION - April 25 - 8:06 pm

  Smooth, zippy, tight, quiet, with great appeal, inside and out. I bought this car for my daughter and she loves it. We looked at/test drove Cobalts and Focuses first and then found that the Fusion is way worth the extra $1,500 we paid. Only driven it 300 miles so far, but it truly is a quality car at a great price. The 5M is gutsy, quick, and feels like a 6-cylinder, not a 4 banger. Visibility is excellent in all directions. Very little road noise. Love the cruise design on the steering wheel.

• 

  wonderful car - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By BrittanyM - April 25 - 8:43 am

  i love this car! it drives so nice it is just simply perfection you couldnt find a better buy it is not to expensive and it has everyhitng you need!

• 

  Adriannes Fusion Happy - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Adrianne - April 22 - 8:20 pm

  I absolutely love my 2006 Ford Fusion Se I4. Its red, and its my baby. It doesnt feel like a 4-banger, but it is. I get over 400 miles on a full tank of gas. I turn heads wherever I go. The only downfall is its very hard to find high-performance parts, body kits etc. I love the car! Ford really have outdone themselves. I love the AWD too!

• 

  Great - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By JennZ - April 5 - 9:40 am

  I got my Fusion because of rising gas prices. I traded my SUV and was prety apprehensive about giving it up. This car has not made me regret that decision yet.

• 

  Glad the wife prevailed - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By A&E - April 4 - 11:16 am

  Replacing a Passat 1.8T, we were headed once again for the imports when the missus urged a look at the one domestic that didnt ask for handouts last year. Going up against Accord LX-P and Camry LE, the Fusion SE (I4 2.5 L) was a surprisingly easy choice based on price, features, styling and yes, ride. The first 4000 mi have us feeling great about the decision. Except when cold, the 6-speed auto is responsive and smooth. Mileage is quite good (23/29) when were mellow. Handling is, well, its not a Passat (taut) or even an Accord (cultured), but its firm and secure and beats the Camry (boring) all to heck. This is a quiet, comfortable, well-engineered and (so far) reliable vehicle.

• 

  Great Fusion & Price - 2016 Ford Fusion
  By Chris - April 2 - 8:28 pm

  2016 Fusion SE with tech package and 2.5 Engine. Read a lot of reviews on Fusion before buying. Looked at other cars, Hyundai, kia, Cheverolet and Nissian. Most reviewers said the 2.5 engine was under powered. Most so called pro reviwers have a lead foot. So I asked people who had one and everyone said, they have not had no problem with the 2.5 power. I also compared the 2.5 to my Escape SE with the 1.6 turbo and could only tell very little difference in power. So overall the Fusion SE with 2.5 is a great deal. Still do your research, and remember owners will always be your best source for an accurate reviews. People who do the reviews based upon a rental car, does not know the history of the car and how it has been treated. In summary, We love our Fusion SE and would buy another, if ever needed and would highly reccommened the Fusion with the 2.5 to everyone.

• 

  WOW - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By black beauty - April 1 - 7:10 pm

  Owner of just one day Fusion sport black/ black w/ red leather insert bucket seats.. roars like a lion and drives like a Lexus. Fighting with wife.. now she wants one .. Oh well, cant find another one just like this one. Solution??- Order another one. But she wanted extra, with a remote auto start so her car would be different than mine.She wins.. what else can I say about this car!!

• 

  Home run for ford - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By shawn barnes - March 18 - 10:30 pm

  I fell in love with exterior styling then i drove one and decided that this would definitely be ny next vehicle.It has more than enough power and phenomenal gas mileage (39.5 mpg) mostly around town with a short commute to work each day. I have recommended this car to many of my friends who are looking for a new car.

• 

  Good Bang for the Buck - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Michele - March 12 - 6:20 am

  Its about time someone came out with a car thats fun to drive. The steering is smooth, the seats are comfortable and the gas mile is very good.