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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  Happy Owner - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By Tom Foley - August 5 - 4:37 pm

  Really like car great average cost family car, but looks and drives like a much higher priced car.

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  Disapointment - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By Bob - August 2 - 10:39 am

  Initially I was very impressed with this car and loved the performance. I put better tires on it and it sticks to the road like glue.

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  Bad Ford - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Dissed - August 1 - 11:27 am

  I had a 2008 that was perfect in every way. I now have a 2010 and would like me 08 back. Transmission problems are back from Ford. I took it in for the recall and it did not fix the problem. I fear a new transmission next and that means more problems forever. Ford ruined the FUSION in 2010. Flex Fuel V6 automatic. It shifts like the 2001 Taurus I used to have for a company car.

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  08 Fusion SEL - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By vilstb - July 30 - 1:22 pm

  Thanks to my in depth review from this exact site I purchased my 08 Fusion in August 2009. I have put 25K on the Fusion since and the car has been flawless. Talk about headache free, sporty style, and great MPG with the 3.0 L. (24-30 hwy/city) Ford has really changed their image and it has definitely changed my mind about there business. Im 25 years old and can genuinely say I believe the new styles are eye catching for my generation. Ford has me hooked!

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  My Best Car Yet! - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Erik - July 28 - 12:50 am

  This is by far my best business commuter/ travel car yet! Im now going on 10 months of ownership and Im coming up on nearly 50,000 miles and not one issue yet. I drive about 80k miles a year usually, and this car so far is super reliable. I love how comfy it is on the really really long trips (longest so far is 9 days and 3100 miles). The only thing Ive replaced so far is the tires at 29k. I can just go on and on about how much I love this car! My last 4 commuters were all Accords but no more, Fusions from here on out.

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  I did love the car until - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By LynneD - July 26 - 1:45 pm

  I bought this car new in September of 2007. Loved it from the moment I got it until it reached around 34,000 miles. First it broke down on the side of the road, was without my car for 5 days and got a rental. That cost me $240 and Ford reimbursed me $60. The problem was a coil and it also needed a computer which they had to order. Then last month I had a transmission problem and it had to be rebuilt. I was without my car for 3 weeks, but they did give me a loaner. 2 weeks later I again broke down on the side of the road, that was last Wednesday. Today is now Monday still no car and another coil and computer and awaiting parts. This time I have no loaner and no rental due to cost.

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  Will i buy this car when the lease is up? - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By John - July 23 - 9:17 pm

  I leased this great car when it had 3500 miles on it, got a GREAT DEAL.The pa winters are rough and the car with awd is fantastic. My dilemma is should i buy the car when the lease is up. Looking at the Buick lacrosse, ford taurus and Volkswagen cc all with all wheel drive.The prices are ridiculous and this has it all and only 22,000 miles, looks like a no brainer.

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  Escape from 97 Taurus to 08 Fusion - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By SgtKung - July 19 - 9:06 pm

  Wont bother talking about the 97 Taurus...those who have owned one KNOW what sort of car it is, and why I got rid of it. Originally didnt even consider the Fusion - honestly, I didnt think it was in my price range. Once I realized it was, I did the research and discovered it was a very reliable car. We paid $12K for an 08 Fusion SE, 25K miles, balance of the warranty, etc. VERY pleased so far. Not the fastest car out there, but for an I-4 it is actually quite powerful. Interior/exterior styling and comfort are VERY nice and comfortable plenty of trunk room for the size, etc. I *HIGHLY* recommend it - assuming it stays reliable, well drive it until the wheels fall off. :)

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  Ford FusionSE auto - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By DoubleG - July 18 - 11:08 pm

  I have the gray Ford SE Automatic. Good riding car. Fairly quite interior. Drove a Honda, Altima, Hyundai. The Ford won out. City driving about 18 MPG and I mean city driving. Stop signs on almost every corner, red lights, heavy traffic etc. The few times I had it on the highway I got anywhere from 33 mpg to 35 mpg. Only minor complaint is the controls are to low on the dash and the elevated rear shelf in the back makes it a little harder to back into a parking space. I will add a rear spoiler to solve that problem. Overall a very good car.

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  Transmission - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By disappointed - July 18 - 6:14 pm

  Transmission slips or clunks into gear. Recall did not fix problem. There are pages of Fusion owners on internet with same problem. My car is at dealers for the third time (counting recall) for this dangerous problem.