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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  A 13 gallon gas tank? Sync still not ready for prime-time - 2013 Ford Fusion
  By fury63 - February 23 - 2:02 pm

  I have about 9200 miles on my Titanium FWD. For the most part, this is a great vehicle. It is a nice driver and is quiet and comfortable. It handles extremely well. However, there are a couple of things that really make it hard for me to recommend to anyone else. There is a problem with the gas tank that prevents you from putting much more than 12 gallons in when you are near empty. The specs say 16.5 capacity. So plan on spending a lot of time at the gas station. My last car held 18 gallons so this is a huge inconvenience.

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  2013 Fusion SE 1.6 MANUAL/Clutch - 2013 Ford Fusion
  By danlvegas - February 21 - 9:51 pm

  Ive had the car for two months and am VERY happy with it. The car is very impressive: 1. Handling is fantastic, handles really well: cornering, brakes, acceleration, all great, and the 1.6 EcoBoost is plenty strong. It came with Michelins. 2. It is wisper quiet, easy to use the InSync car phone feature. 3. Styling I love - looks sharp. Ordered it Titanium White (extra). 4. I am getting the mileage advertised, but I have the manual transmition SE. Im probably one of a handful of owners who have the Fusion with a stick. 5. Came fully operational - perfect - from the factory. Nothing was wrong/broken. Maybe I was lucky hearing some reports, but not a thing was out of place.

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  Fusion 1.6 not 2.5 - 2013 Ford Fusion
  By beargrowl - February 21 - 1:00 pm

  Bought Fusion just before February trip from Michigan to Florida and back. Mileage was 30.08 and the computer said 30.1 over 3400 miles. Trunk was loaded with luggage and after break-in cruised at 75-78. 250 miles of stop and go included in senior land. So far very happy. The 1.6 was built post recall and is adequate. Specifically did not get Ford Touch so no problems there. Traded in a Lucerne with 100k -times are a changing-so far culture shock is ok.

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  Disaster in the making - 2013 Ford Fusion
  By archer12 - February 21 - 6:17 am

  I bought my 2013 Titanium in Detroit. Within 6 hours of purchase, the car had to be towed to the dealer with a problem that was diagnosed as a starter module. Things have gone downhill from there. The highway mileage...even in 70 degree weather, NEVER exceeds 28 mpg, nothing close to the advertised 33. The mytouch system is finicky and unreliable. Remote start terrible. The electronic lane change chimes go off for no reason. Voice activated controls are useless the noise levels in the car are so high and people cannot hear you on the speaker phone. Sych will NOT work with many phone brands. Car is a train wreck. 2010 Fusion with V6 was more powerful with much better mileage.

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  Still a few design flaws - 2013 Ford Fusion
  By ashburner - February 19 - 6:11 am

  Im a huge car fan, and I get a new car every 10 months or so. I decided to give Ford a try, as I have never owned one before. The car drives very nicely. Super quiet inside, at least as quiet as my 2011 Infiniti M37s. The interior is comfortable, but takes a little getting used to. Rear seat leg room is not the greatest. 2.0T engine is good. Definitely torque steer and turbo boost delay if you step on it but not a problem day to day. Love the Sync system and the LCDs. Driving anything else seems almost archaic. Stereo is great, especially the quality from the HD radio. Gas mileage is still up for debate but seems good. Did a 50 mile trip at 65mph and averaged 34.2.

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  1.6 SE Ecoboost....fun car to drive......horrible gas mileage!!!! - 2013 Ford Fusion
  By locntry - February 11 - 2:05 pm

  I was driving a 2011 Ford Fusion SEL and once my husband & I saw the new design of the 2013, we decided to trade in my car. I put on about 40k miles on my car each year so its imperative that I not only have a car thats comfortable to drive, but one that gets decent gas mileage. I was told we should get better gas mileage with the new smaller engine and eco boost. I averaged 28-30 mpg on my last Fusion....probably 60% highway and 40% city. Im now averaging 25 mpg and am extremely upset with Ford. In addition, the sync, radio & bluetooth just stopped working at 1800 miles but then started again the next day. Love driving it....hate the mpg!!! Thinking of getting another car..

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  Transmission issues - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By calninja1969 - February 10 - 5:58 am

  I purchased car used, it look brand new inside out, after first day the transmission started to slip so dealership put in a new transmission, I got the car back after a week in the shop and drove the car for about a week and started smelling transmission fluid, so I look under car and noticed transmission fluid leaking and bottom of car covered in fluid, so car is going back to dealership for repairs once again and will let you know in about a week when I get the car back.

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  update to i want to love it again - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By mom2de - February 7 - 9:47 am

  car had 6 oil leaks. couldnt find issue with the transmission, airbag light "fixed". got car back Tuesday, was back in this am because of tranny light on again and airbag light. airbag kit needs to be replaced, not covered by warranty, and dealer cant find the issue with the powertrain/transmission light. word to wise, do not by a first year make/model of any kind. so my car will continue to skip and buck until I can find the right mechanic I guess! good luck!

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  So far loving my new Fusion! - 2013 Ford Fusion
  By cruzefan2 - February 4 - 8:59 am

  I upgraded my Chevy Cruze to a Ford Fusion Ecoboost 1.6L about a week and a half ago. I was wanting a roomier car. The Fusion drives very nice. The interior is very quiet! About the only noise you hear is the engine getting up to speed. So far as far as fuel mileage I just took a trip over the weekend and on 65-70 mph interstate roads I got 29.8 MPG but I only have 600 miles on the vehicle so Im assuming this will only get better. Does anyone else have the 1.6L Ecoboost and what are you getting for mileage? The only recommendation I would have is the passenger seat sits a little low to the ground so maybe have height adjustable seats? Other than that no complaints about the car!

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  Nice upgrade.....you think? - 2012 Ford Fusion
  By basterisk - February 1 - 1:47 pm

  Bought the 2012 Ford Fusion SEL FWD 3.0L V6 certified pre-owned, have been driving it a little over a month now. Previous vehicle was a 98 Dakota pickup, so yes lol, quite a difference. I love the driving experience.....handles great, nice acceleration when the higher revs achieved, especially using the manual automatic mode. Comfortable, quiet, pleasant leather interior, enjoyable sound system. I look forward to driving it each day. A few complaints, for no vehicle is perfect. The transmission can shift awkwardly at times, especially in mid-RPMs. Rear visibility takes getting used to, and windshield rear-view mirror gets in the way when looking right. Glad i got the car......