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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  Way to go! - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By T - July 17 - 5:33 am

  Gm retiree here who traded 2003 de ville. This fusion is a one hell of a car. Fit and finish is excellent, paint is excellent, features and engine excellent. I immediately took this car on a one thousand mile run after purchasing it. Gotta say I had a ball in it. Plenty of power. Transmission shifts with ease. Low road noise and handling like a pro. Straight and tight all the way. Thumbs up Ford.

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  Transmission Problems at 70K - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Northern IL - July 16 - 2:37 pm

  I bought this used with 3K miles on it, have driven 80K. I really like the car. There are two issues, one is the lumbar support broke, the part is $35, but the seat would have to be taken apart. The real problem is the transmission. It will jump out of gear on hard acceleration, and wont downshift at times or when it does it clunks into gear. There is a module inside the transmission that is worn out, appears at about 70K plus miles. So youre out of warranty. It is about $2K to fix. Gas mileage is also lower than expected, but it is a heavy car. I get around 24 average (hwy and town).

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  Ford hit it out of the park - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Mike - July 16 - 9:29 am

  Ive been an account manager for 35 years and this Fusion SEL is my 25th company car and its the best Ive ever had...so much so that I plan to buy it when the lease is up. I got 31 MPG at 75 MPH on the interstate. The SYNC. leather heated seats, heated side views are wonderful. My only problem was a rattle in the back that ended up being a faulty set of trunk hinges. I really love this car and Im very pleased that its American

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  Rockin Car! - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Erik - July 15 - 3:38 am

  What a great and amazing car! I pretty much drive for a living (I drive close to 80K miles every year). When I bought this car it was down to the Acura TL and this Fusion Sport and the bang for the buck was in the end unbeatable. I was really worried if the car would have the fun to drive factor in the twisties and retain the comfort over long hauls. Ive made both of those trips dozens of times so far (Longest trip was 2500 miles in 9 days) and this car is brilliant. No regrets about not buying the acura I have nearly 45k trouble free miles! Will buy another one for sure.

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  Great, Fun Car for the Price - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By damjp - July 14 - 8:38 pm

  I purchased my car used with 50,000 miles on it, and have been extremely pleased. It was a former rental car so I knew it may have a few kinks, but the only issues with it are a few dings in the paint and the door creaks after blowing fully open in a wind storm. It rides excellent for mid- size car, and is very fun to drive. The V6 has great acceleration at speed to pass. Gas mileage has also been very good with > 28 highway and my normal country/highway mileage of 25 mpg. The seat comfort is good and I am very comfortable at 63". I get a little uncomfortable with the car seats in the back. Large trunk space lends to a good car for longer trips with kids. Very satisfied.

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  No Fusion Confusion - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Dave - July 12 - 9:19 am

  The car looks sharp, has a smooth ride and has plenty of room in the cabin. Have just driven it back and forth to work and around the area so have not really tested it fully as of yet. I have the SE version but it has a sport appearance package which includes a rear spoiler, moonroof, and sportier design on the seats

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  The best in its class - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Wildfire007 - July 10 - 4:46 pm

  We bought our 2006 Fusion used as a 3rd vehicle. It had 18,000 miles on it at the time of purchase. It has proven so flawless and so much fun to drive that we are using it far more than our other vehicles. The fuel mileage is incredible. In driving that is typically 75% highway and 25% city it never gets less than 29 mpg, and on trips at 65mph it averages between 34 and 38 mpg. The interior is roomy and very comfortable, and the ride and handling are excellent. I highly recommend it. Not a single problem at 36,000 miles now. I did replace the drivers side door handle, but this is a $40 part and only takes about 15 minutes to replace with very few tools.

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  Fun to Drive! - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Doodle Bug - July 6 - 10:16 pm

  This is a great car. I traded in a VW Beetle for an "adult" car and was very surprised. It is really roomy and can comfortably seat adults in the backseat with ample leg room. The value with this car is amazing. It feels like youre driving a much more expensive car.

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  Dont buy it - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By JLL - July 6 - 3:20 pm

  I have had my fusion since March of 2006. The 3 yr/36,000 mile warranty is gone and so is my transmission. I have had crappy gas mileage on this car pretty much since I bought it. Ford says I need to replace the transmission because of a bad solenoid and they will contribute $1000.00 to the cause. Ghee thanks Ford! If it wasnt for the crappy transmission I wouldnt need your help at all. Will not buy another Ford!

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  Great Car for the money - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Bernie - July 6 - 9:25 am

  I own a 2005 Camry and a 2008 Altima coupe. The Fusion meets or beats those cars for ride quality, power and comfort. Ford has done a great job in building a car that shows America can build and engineer a quality midsized sedan. I have 1200mi on the car and have been averaging 28 mpg 60% city) by fill-up. the computer shows 31 to 34 mpg on the highway. This is my first American car purchase in ten years and I am very picky. You will not be disappointed if you choose this car over any of the Japanese or Korean competition. Drive this car then drive a Camry and Accord and you will be amazed at how quiet this car is. The Fusion is by far a much quieter car. The 4 cyl has tons of power.