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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  great car - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Carol C - June 30 - 10:20 pm

  I have owned the car only 3 weeks but love it. It is comfortable, quick, and very quiet, especially in the lower gears (I have the 5-speed) but is seems to rev a little high when it gets over 60 mph which is my only complaint about this car. I owned a 2005 Escape XLT 4WD that I traded for this (which rode like a skateboard that got 18 mpg) and the mileage on the first 2 tankfuls of gas has been about 27 mpg which is much better than what I was used to. I am keeping this car forever.

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  My Fusion - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By Whoever - June 28 - 5:56 am

  Very sensible - sedan but feels like a coupe...very good handling (and I dont prefer front wheel drives) very easy on fuel unless you jump on it, but the power is there when you demand it. Thats because of a very well tuned six speed transmission. Definitely go for the six cylinder six speed auto transmission...smooth power, less hard working engine.

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  My Fusion - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By j sha - June 27 - 7:16 am

  Ford really put out a great car to replace the Taurus even though they turned around and brought it back. The Fusion makes everyones heads turn if you know how to fix one up. From the 16 year old Fast and Furious wanna bees to the 70 year old church driver the Fusion is the car to want. Great driving and great looks. I love my Black Beauty!

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  Not a happy first time Ford owner - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By T Jessen - June 25 - 11:33 am

  Bought a Ford for the first time (Fusion SE) The car seemed to struggle as it automatically shifted through the gears. Dealer couldnt find a problem & the husband insisted there was. My husbands thought was to have them drive it for at least a 60 mile period as he noticed more on his work days. Manager took the car home, put a monitor on the car and suddenly the found a problem. They told us it was a defect in the transmission and they would replace it. Only 6500 miles? Warranty on the trans doesnt start over and some owners had 2 or 3 transmissions replaced. Defect on the fuel filler (new part installed.Took for granted my automatic lights on my buick. This 2010 Ford doesnt have them???

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  Ford Hit The Hammer with Fusion - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By eric - June 18 - 2:26 am

  The 2009 Ford Fusion is not only comfortable, sporty, but it has class and style. I love this car! I got 36 mpg out of it on the highway! Ford is on its way back to superdom and will retain champion status with vehicles such as the 2009 Ford Fusion!

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  Some Good. Some not so Good - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By Jim W. - June 10 - 6:46 pm

  I fell in love with the seats in the sports appearance package and forgot to check the firmness of the sports tuned suspension. If I could get the harsh ride softened a bit, I would. This car looks great, is roomy, has many thoughtful features, but it has some flaws too. Some controls feel flimsy and cheap (seat recline lever, light switch, HVAC control, outside door handles) Seats are very comfy and supportive, and as I said they look great with black leather, and black/red cloth inserts. The engine lacks pick-up, and doesnt seem enthusiastic. Fuel economy so far (at two weeks ownership) is about 19mpg. Hope this improves. However, this car was very well priced and nicely appointed.

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  2010 Sport AWD - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By 2010 Sport AWD - June 10 - 6:03 am

  This car is fun to drive and it handles great. I strongly recommend others buy it if they are looking for an attractive AWD sedan that is affordable.

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  First New Car - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By 1stNewCar - June 6 - 2:00 am

  This was the first New car I have purchased, and I am very happy with my decision. I test drove many different cars (Accord, Camry, Charger, Caliber, etc.), and settled on the Fusion. Put on 2500 miles in less than a month. Very comfortable for long drives and averaged 28 mpg! Comfortably seats 4 (took a trip with three friends, shortest being 61", and everyone had plenty of room).

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  Great car - 2017 Ford Fusion
  By Mike Daney - June 5 - 12:56 pm

  clearly define the S vs. SE. SE much more car for your money. Sync 3 should be a standard feature and not an option. Hard to justify added expense for Eco boost engine when performance is equal to standard engine. Initial impressions all positive very nice car for the money.

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  Not disapointed - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Hokiefan - June 1 - 2:23 pm

  I took a lot of time reading reviews. This car meets or exceeds everything written about the car. I think it rides as nice as my Lexus RX330. Very happy to find an American made car which matches up nicely with the imports. Good job Ford. I recommend buying this car. I love it.