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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  Wanted to like this car - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By ranner1 - November 16 - 6:11 pm

  I bought our 2010 fusion late 2010 and have had no major issues with it and then wham! The transmission began giving major problems. We took it to the dealer first with no real help. We then took it to Mr. Transmission and they found a catastrophic failure inside the transmission. $4000 repair later and out of warranty we contacted Ford to look for help and at least for them to help rectify the issue with us and all we got was a "Sorry its your problem". Granted the milage was at 150,000km but a modern transmission should not fail this badly this soon. I am sorry I bought this car, for anyone else out there with this problem, report it to Transport Canada. Perhaps they can do something.

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  Dont Believe the Estimated MPG - 2013 Ford Fusion
  By pvlawyer - November 16 - 2:56 pm

  I have had this car for a month and bought it specifically for the mileage since I drive over 20,000 miles per year. My Jaq S-Type with V8 got 20-22 mpg, and this 4 cylinder only averages 22-24 mpg. Even on straight highway trip with no traffic, it reached 29 mpg, not the 36 advertised. Ive only reached 29 mpg once. Extremely disappointed! I see a class action in Fords future just like Hyundai and Kia just had. Dealer says it will be get better mileage after break-in period (1000 miles), but with 2100 miles on car, no change. Last tank averaged 22 mpg. I could be driving my V8 luxury car!! I rated performance low because the car doesnt get mpg it advertises!

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  Performance and Tire Wear - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By rjpii - November 12 - 1:04 am

  I am shopping ahead of time for new tires for my 2010 Ford Fusion Sport. In doing so I ran across this site and other with a variety of comments and ratings. I bought my car in Jan of 2010 and have 45,500 miles on it. My tires are good for another 5000 - 7500 miles. And they have at times been put to the test. Rotated every 7000 miles along with oil service. This car kills every other 3.5 I have run against. The average mileage up and down my 27 mile communte is between 24 and 26 MPG. I am surprised that it has been 100% reliable with no additional service needs. I have owned 3 BMWs and this car is more fun to drive. Not as "secure" in high speed turns but good enough. Love it.

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  2012 Fusion SEL V6 Engine Failure - 2012 Ford Fusion
  By rjdoody - November 11 - 8:56 pm

  We have had to reprogram our transmission shortly after we got it do to very high revs before it would shift and now that we have 16K miles it has been to the dealer 2X the first was for rough idle and they said 2 plugs went bad they replaced it then 2 days later we sent it back for the same reason and they told us that the #6 cylinder and valve has gone bad and the engine will need to be replaced, i have lost all confidence I expected more from the ford engineers after I found out i am not alone. We only bought a Ford since they did not take bail out money, i should have kept my Toyota 200k miles with no problems on it, American still builds unreliable junk, i will never buy American again

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  Loss of Power while Driving - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By maggb - November 8 - 8:08 pm

  Seems to be an ongoing issues for many. My 2010 fusion has 26K miles and at random times will lose power while driving down the highway. I push on gas pedal, and nothing happens. First two times no engine light came on. I coast over to side of highway and put the car in park, it shakes very bad. Then I turn the car off. I restart the car and is fine. This has happened 4 times now, so car is in shop. They think it is Throttle Body. Ford Dealer says, there is no re-call since they dont have that many complaints. This can be a very dangerous outcome waiting to happen. I just want to get the word out to others to be aware of this.

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  Electrical and Transmission problems - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By yoc - November 3 - 8:07 am

  Car in shop several times due to transmission slippage that always has to be adjusted. Shifting from reverse to drive causes a big jerk..and the latest is intermittent battery dying - dealer says battery bad and replaced for $200.00! ...First time owning ford and not happy with it at all! All reviews seem to be consistent and Ford not doing anything but raping pockets! Last one for me! Here I come Chevrolet and may be consider Honda - also the head rest and seat is poorly designed.

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  Great value - 2012 Ford Fusion
  By waynetk003 - October 18 - 8:02 am

  Ive had my 2012 Ford Fusion SEL with the 4 cylinder engine, FWD, & 6 speed automatic transmission for one year. I average 25-26 MPG city and 34 MPG highway. I have all of the options except the NAV, but I have a Garmin. I previously had a 2008 Lincoln MKZ and, aside from the motor, it is the same car which is why I bought it. The 4 cylinder is certainly not as peppy as the V6, but it pays you back at the pump as the Lincoln averaged 19 MPG in town. Also, if you dont mind the Blue Oval instead of the Lincoln badge, there is an over $9000 price difference.

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  Its a keeper - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By jw1234 - October 10 - 2:43 pm

  Pros: Smooth Drive, Powerful V6, great sound system, AWD is good in snow, lots of compliments on looks, good reception, very reliable Cons: Road noise is high, helicopter effect (back window(s) down for dog) pretty bad, blind spots are plentiful, MPG: 23.4 usually

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  The Champion - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By kateymcinnes - October 4 - 11:35 am

  When i first bought this car, like a lot of others i didnt know if i would like it. after driving it home i knew i loved it. even with a breathalyzer installed, it never once let me down. Ive even been in two accidents with trucks (Ford F150 and a Dodge Ram) and a car ( Toyota Corolla ) and this car withheld it all, with next to no damage. The only problem i have with it is when it sits for about a month or longer the battery will die . this has happened twice now to me but i think maybe its just time for a new battery. And another thing to note is that ive had the brakes replaced 6 times this past year . All in all this car is definatly a champion and i would recomend it to everyone.

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  The Great Disappointment - 2012 Ford Fusion
  By shutupnrock8 - September 30 - 7:14 pm

  Im not one to sugar coat a review, so Ill get right to the point and the reasoning behind the title of my review. I have been an owner of a 2012 Ford Fusion SE for about 5 months now, and needless to say I have very strong mixed feelings about it. Being the first sedan I was going to own, previously owning a 2000 Chrysler Voyager, I wanted a new roomy, sleek, and fuel efficient sedan in which I was pleased at first with the Fusion. After driving for awhile, Ive noticed that Ive been going to the pump almost twice as much as my Chrysler. I have done two extensive tests to find out my Fusion is only getting a combined 15.5 MPG. This on top of other nagging issues is making me very unhappy.