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:

• 

  Fusion 2011 Engine shutdown - 2011 Ford Fusion
  By ferb1 - June 26 - 4:06 pm

  Bought my car from Frontier Ford mid 2011. Never go there again. The service department is unreliable too. The car loss power while driving (doesnt matter what speed). Take it to fix 4 times. Couldnt fix it. Ford or the dealership wont admit to any issue. IN fact, they said that my warranty ran out. Told me I should have bought the extended warranty. For the past 2 years, I have been dealing the loss of power in the car. Now I understand the statement "What do see on the middle of the road? A DEAD FORD"

• 

  Excellent value and great MPG - 2013 Ford Fusion
  By netmike1963 - June 23 - 2:27 pm

  I replaced my 2011 Fusion with the 2013 Fusion. What a huge difference between them !! My 2011 Fusion was cramped compared to my 2013 Fusion. I now have much more legroom so long distant drives are much more comfortable. I chose the Fusion S model and with incentives, the purchased price was below $20,000.00 The color of my Fusion is Ginger Ale Metallic and I receive a lot of compliments almost daily. I bought my Fusion in April 2013 and already have over 4,000 miles on it. I am currently averaging a little over 26mpg and I truly enjoy driving it more than my previous one. The ride is so much smoother than the 2011 model.

• 

  Couldnt be happier! - 2013 Ford Fusion
  By kyle28 - June 8 - 2:35 pm

  I bought a 2013 Fusion Titanium with 2.0L Ecoboost engine. I drove it against the BMW 3-Series, Audi A4, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima and VW Passat. The Fusion felt much more solid than the Altima and Passat and competitive with the Accord, A4 and 3-Series. It is incredibly refined, quiet with great ride and handling, second to none of the above cars mentioned. I chose the Fusion over the BMW and Audi because it was just as nice for far less money. I have owned the car for 9 months now and still marvel at how great it looks and how much car it is for the money!

• 

  2013 Fusion SE 1.6 - 2013 Ford Fusion
  By fozcat - June 7 - 1:37 pm

  I purchased a 13 Fusion SE 1.6 Auto 1 week ago. It has Luxury, Technology with My Ford Touch, Sunroof Packages and Park Assist. I spent many hours researching this site and reading the reviews. Here are my initial thoughts about the car. The build quality inside and out are outstanding. The car is very comfortable, rides and handles exceptionally well. Only driven 200 miles but averaging 29MPG city/hwy combined. Did see 37 highway driving the posted speed limit. Only issue is I have had to do a Hard Reset twice on the My Ford Touch because it fails to connect to my iPhone. This seems to happen after I drive it without the phone and it won connect next trip. Software update coming Im told.

• 

  Repairs Already - 2012 Ford Fusion
  By gm771 - June 5 - 9:48 pm

  My Fusion was purchased new a year ago and I took it in for an oil change and tire rotation. I was told by the service department I need four new tires and an alignment at $1000 even though the car is only at 22,000 miles. I was told it was my fault I have to replace the tires because I drive "too hard". When I told the dealer this was my third Ford vehicle (all purchased new) and I never had to replace the tires this early I was told again it was my fault and not faulty tires. I will never buy a Ford again. They dont stand by their products and blame customers even though this is the fourth vehicle I have purchased new and didnt have this problem with the other three.

• 

  New 2013 Fusion Titanium - 2013 Ford Fusion
  By fordguy27 - May 28 - 8:01 pm

  Just got a 13 Fusion Titanium 2.0 with 19" tires and have approximately 400 miles on it. I was concerned reading some reviews about the mileage but the first tank returned 26.5 mpg in mixed city and interstate driving. The car is very comfortable, great technology which is easy to use. I havent had any problems with MyTouch but Im familiar with Sync. The MyTouch responds as I expected without issue. The Sony sound system is very good.

• 

  Mixed Feelings - 2013 Ford Fusion
  By longtime68 - May 18 - 10:26 am

  I purchased the SE model but with the optional 2.0L Ecoboost. I was looking for performance and was not disappointed as its on par with the 250HP V6 vehicle it replaced. Front end styling was the most appealing factor - a pleasant departure from everything else on the market. I purposely avoided the Titanium model. I did not want a ridiculous spoiler on the trunk lid and feel its loaded with too much non-required tech. The Fusion handles well and has excellent braking. The interior is quiet and comfortable although the seats are exceptionally firm.

• 

  2010 Ford Fusion 6 cyl Sport - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By dideerooster - May 14 - 5:32 pm

  Bought my fusion 2 1/2 yrs ago with 3000 miles on it. At 18000 miles had to replace the brakes all around. Now at 25000 miles its in the shop for the transmission. While on a trip, the tach would rev back and forth while loosing power when "trying" to shift into high gear. When it finally did shift, it shifted hard. Did this 7 times before we got it home. Took it right to garage and it sat there exactly 7 days before they even pulled it inside. Now they have it torn apart trying to find the problem.. Really shocked at the problems. My husband has had 3 as company cars and never had an ounce of trouble with them.

• 

  Impressed so far.... - 2013 Ford Fusion
  By jjanicek - May 4 - 9:27 am

  Weve owed our Fusion for just over 24 hrs now I can am impressed with the handling, comfort and styling of the 2013 Fusion. My family fits nicely in the Fusion with room to spare which is a difficult task seeing as how my husband is 64 yet the Fusion has ample space behind him for our kids to sit without their knees in their chest. After owning a Dodge Ram for many years, going to the fuel savvy Fusion is a breath of fresh air. The Fusion flashing new body style is appealing to the eye and the interior isnt lacking either. The real test of over all approval will come the more we drive it but so far, not too shabby.

• 

  FORD HAS A WINNER! - 2013 Ford Fusion
  By rebert - May 3 - 9:51 am

  Traded my 2013 Nissan Altima which was an absolute piece of crap! The Fusion is as close to perfection as any car Ive ever owned. Quiet, smooth, great all around. Absolutely no complaints and hoping itll stay that way.