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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  Very nice car! - 2011 Ford Fusion
  By jsnick - July 29 - 12:23 pm

  I was in a 2003 Altima SL that had 85,000 miles on it and ordered a 2011 fusion SEL 2.5 liter in January and took delivery of it March 5th. Fusion now approaching 6k miles and very impressed with the quality, ride & design of car. Also I get outstanding gas mileage 32 +/- for town and 37 +/- on the highway (remember this is what I get and can vary by driver). Quality, ride & workmanship is far superior to the 2003 Altima. Although I don’t know if the 2011 Altima has improved in these areas, doubt it though, it’s the same platform (reason I didnt look at Altima). I will say Altima overall was very reliable, time will tell on Fusion.

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  Worst Car Ive Ever Owned - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By mrsnorris - July 21 - 3:04 pm

  I never write auto reviews. However, I figured that it would have been helpful is someone told me about this car before I got it. First off, the 2010 Fusion is a beautiful looking car. I got the black with black leather interior. Very nice. I thought the SYNC was cool and loved the color combo...(note to self, never buy a car based on looks). I had the car for 1 year. I was literally at the shop so much they knew me by name. The transmission failed 3 times. After the 3rd time of being in the shop and paying for a rental (on a lease) I sold it and went back foreign. The only reason you should get this car is if you like living at the repair shop.

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  Ford is still the same poor quality - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By wolffchad - July 19 - 7:46 pm

  I really wanted to love this car.I liked everything about it when i bought it new in June 09 but...At 6000 miles while taking my son to tour a college i was on an incline and the tranny slipped.When i returned home i took it to the dealer and they reprogrammed the tranny.Seemed fine for a while but started slipping again.At 19000 the dealership found a leak from the half shaft and burned out clutches. At 25500 miles the tranny had to be rebuilt when at 70mph it went out of gear while on vacation and would not engage.Had no power. When they hooked it to the computer there were no error codes even though the clutches burned out again.Its starting to flair after rebuild 7.15.11.Dont buy Ford.

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  Ford Fusion is Awesome - 2011 Ford Fusion
  By rojack725 - July 19 - 12:00 pm

  So far, were very pleased with our Bordeaux Reserve Red Metallic Fusion with the Light Stone Leather interior. Color in and out is stunning. 175hp 4cyl powerplant is more than adequate for my daily needs, and its very rev-happy. Passing power is like a V6. Mileage is 28+ before break-in. Very cool. 6-speed auto shifts confidently and seamlessly. Ambient Lighting and electroluminescent guages are sweet make the interior look like a Tron Cycle. Sony stereo is very nice- bass-y enough and clear. The Fusion handles like a Focus and is the quietest car I have ever owned. All in all, we are very pleased and look forward to spending the next 10 years or so in its cabin.

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  Still amazed by this car... - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By chinorth - July 18 - 10:16 am

  My Fusion is an SEL with the 3.0 V6, bought mid-2010. Since then Ive already put upwards of 25,000 miles on it, mixed city/highway. In short, Ive put it through hell. It still drives like new. Unlike "Big Three" cars of just a few years ago, theres not a squeek or rattle to be heard. Ive had none of the transmission issues some people are complaining about. One must realize that unhappy customers are more likely to speak up than satisfied ones...I highly doubt the number of complaints here are indicative of the actual frequency of the issues (this goes for all cars). I seem to recall though that a change was made to the 2010 transmissions in early 2010 to resolve some issues.

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  Steering problems - 2011 Ford Fusion
  By ken153 - July 12 - 1:53 am

  I like the car but, I have a major problem with the steering. When I go around curves the steering wheel will not return to center. If I let it alone I would run off the road. I must pull the wheel back to center. This happens either left or right curves. I had the car back to the dealer for repair 3 times. They were not able to fix this problem. I decided to file a claim with my states lemon law. The car had 1,300 miles on it when I discovered the problem. I see this as an accident waiting to happen. Im hoping Ford will take this car back and give me a car that works.

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  A very impressive automobile - 2011 Ford Fusion
  By mrfreeze57 - July 11 - 8:47 pm

  Have had the 2011 I4 sel for one month, 1000 miles, it is a fantastic automobile. The 4 cyl. has plenty of power and all 3 times refueling, all 30 mpg or better with combined driving, and while I have read of complaints of the 6F35 transmission (this is the first automatic I have owned) so far have had not one irratic shift and it shifts so smooth one cant hardly tell when it does unless looking at the tach, and also it shifts out of the lower gears very quickly helping it get such good gas mileage. The fusion drives nice and the electric steering feels fine to me, the engine does make a bit of a snarl at high rpm (as most all 4 cyl do) but normal driving it is very quiet.

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  Great suprise. - 2011 Ford Fusion
  By joe400 - July 11 - 10:26 am

  I have 6 weeks of ownership, 1755 miles and have been very impressed with the Fusion SEL! The four cylinder engine has more than adequate power but economy that exceeds what has been advertised. In five tanks of gas, three have been intown driving and I have averaged 27.2 mpg. On two road trips I have averaged 36.7 and 37.8 mpg! This is driving at speed limits! The car handles very well, the seats are very comfortable and the Nav and sync systems function without a glitch! I am also quite suprised at the quietness of the four cylinder engine. The Ginger leather interior is a great improvement over black, tan and stone! Safe to say I am very impressed at the beginning!

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  Buying at end of lease - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By lga2 - July 2 - 12:07 pm

  I did alot of research when I leased the fusion and the reviews were great. Now I am here for research after driving the car for 3 years and 54,000 miles. It has a new battery and now needs tires but other than that it has not been in the shop except for routine maintenance. It looks and drives like it did when it was new and the gas miliage is still in the high 20s to low 30s. Based on the reviews I read today I understand why my residual value is far below wholesale and retail value. There dont seem to be many used fusions on the lot so I guess most people are keeping them after the lease is done. Kudos Ford, I have never fealt the need to review a car before.

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  Excellent Fusion - 2011 Ford Fusion
  By fusiondan - June 22 - 9:48 pm

  This is an excellent car. Its a smooth ride and enjoyable to be in. Th only issue I have is the front seats are too narrow but they are comfortable.