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:

• 

  Great car - 2014 Ford Fusion
  By Steve - September 4 - 3:55 pm

  We bought this car to replace our 2011 Mercury Milan. That car was too small for me. There was no room in the drivers seat. I was looking to replace it with anything I could find bigger. I stumbled across the Fusion test drove it and was sold. Power was great for the 4 cylinder. Gas mileage is better than the Milan and comfort is much more impressive. Glad I found this car. I have driven Fords or Mercurys for the last 40 years and with the redesigned Fusion, I see no reason to change now.

• 

  Shocked is all I can say... - 2015 Ford Fusion
  By Brian Yelton - September 2 - 8:07 pm

  My wife and I had been looking for her a new midsized vehicle for the last three months. We literally drove every competitor car in the class. Camry - Price was good, power and handling adequate but in typical Toyota fashion wanting in the features department. Accord- Price was an issue for a feature rich car but the engine noise... Good God the engine noise! Regal- Good car and actually our 2nd choice. Great power and handling but the Buick exterior colors couldnt get any more bland. The interiors color combinations are a visual assault on the senses and their Premium packages are just goofy if you ask me. Mazda 6- Good car also but the front seat I am almost certain uses granite for seat padding. Pricing was just a bit of concern with the Mazda as well. But not a bad choice if you are numb from the waist down. Also just a smidge weak in the power department with no engine upgrades available. Altima- Not a bad choice either, very comparable to the Mazda with slightly better seats but the same slightly lackluster performance with no upgrades available. Optima- A little floaty in the suspension. Good power from the turbo model. (on par with the Buick and Fusion) But despite claims of 20mpg on in the city, my 50 mile test drive was nowhere near that. I suspect the way that car is tuned you could realistically expect 14-15 in the city. Tons of features, but found most of them completely useless for our purposes. Sonata- Was a solid competitor across all measures with one exception. The lumbar support in the seats I am pretty sure were designed with a 2ft tall person in mind. For a non-homunculus it should be named pelvic/tail bone torture device. Malibu- Just off a little by every measure. Mostly quality of materials. The car felt cheap when compared to others on the list. Audi A3 & A4- Both good cars all around. A bit too pricey and the premium fuel requirement stinks. Not to mention dealerships are sparse. Passat- Just generally an uncomfortable vehicle and blasé on almost every count. If I forgot a car in the same class then I apologize but if you ask what about...? Then the fact I forgot it should tell you it was forgettable. I assure you we test drove all of them. Hands down the Fusion reigns supreme in this class of cars.

• 

  Owned 5 years only one issue - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Dick - September 2 - 12:48 pm

  Owned this 2010 since new. 66,000 miles. Only one issue-throttle body senser recall. Warranty covered it. Its excelleled in every area. Mileage unreal-34 miles to gallon highway at 70mph, 23mpg around town. Acceleration excellent. 6 speed automatic works well. Handles very well. Large trunck with fold down seats. Nice job Ford.

• 

  Give me my 2011Cruze back - 2015 Ford Fusion
  By donald k - August 28 - 10:27 pm

  I should have taken the dealers offer to take it this car home overnight. I test drove it on a good highway and the ride was quiet and comfortable. I found out after buying it that on the country roads I travel to my home the ride is harsh and lots of road noise. I like the automatic climate control, rear camera and the transmission is very smooth. The seats arent very comfortable for a long drive. The sticker claims 22 city 26 combined and 33 highway, so far the best I got was 21.9 and that is driving with a very light foot . I hate to think what will happen if I drive it a little aggressive. The last several vehicles I owned I always got at least the combined mileage rating. How could the EPA estimates be so far off?

• 

  Beware before you buy - 2015 Ford Fusion
  By Melissa C. - August 27 - 2:54 pm

  As far as the looks of my 2015 Ford Fusion, it is a very nice sporty looking vehicle, however, it has a lot of blind spots which makes me very nervous when changing lanes. I have a new teen driver in the house also and it makes it hard for him to see also when switching lanes. We took this car to Orlando, Florida from N.Carolina (9 hour trip) it was not a very comfortable ride. However it didnt seem as bad when we took another vacation that was only a 4 hour drive. I would not suggest this car to really tall people due to leg room and the roof being so low. My son who is 59" tall has a really hard time sitting in the back seat because of leg room. This is a nice vehicle for your average size person who dont travel alot.

• 

  Great car - 2014 Ford Fusion
  By Chris Grisdale - August 27 - 8:22 am

  Bought this car after having a 2007 Fusion that I never had to fix anything on besides normal things like tires and brakes. I have 22k on the new car with only one problem the seatbelt in the back was made wrong. The dealer replaced it and every thing works great. My 2007 Fusion got about 26 MPG (2.3l 4-cyl manual transmision) on my run to work and had about a 160Hp my new Fusion is getting about 27-28 MPG with 240Hp (2.0l turbo)...Id say that is a win for EcoBoost. My Ford Touch can be slow at times but I love it. Heated and Cooled seats are the best. The heated steering wheel needs work the outer rim heats up but nothing else. This is the first automatic trasmission that I have not hated. I usually drive manuals but my wife talked me into an automatic because she cant/wont drive one.

• 

  2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid From hell - 2013 Ford Fusion
  By Artur Hovsepian - August 22 - 2:05 pm

  What can i really say to sum this all up... Worst car i have ever owned. - I had to take this car in to the dealership at 999 miles and have probably been back to the dealership 40 times ( now at 36k miles). So many build quality issues, servicing issues, Recalls and just in general things either falling apart or the wrong parts being used from the manufacturer. I had to take my car in the first week because of Build quality issues. The panels were not sitting properly, the Rear window of the car was warped and needed to be replaced, the cars trunk was not aligned properly with the rest of the car.... NOTHING Was aesthetically pleasing. This was my first American car and it will be my last. I Do not understand how I can have so many recalls and so many visits to the dealership with problems. They break things, Cause check engine lights, take a week to make any repair and always have the worst customer service skills.

• 

  Mysterious Problems Arise - 2011 Ford Fusion
  By jsteph - August 13 - 10:02 am

  I have a 2011 Fusion SEL but not for long. Mysteriously it stops starting up. Ford dealer couldnt find an issue. Ford dealer called FORD in Michigan and they couldnt troubleshoot the issue either. I would not recommend purchasing this vehicle. Ive only had it for a year and a half and poured over a $1500 in repairs just this year. Not worth it, Im switching to something more reliable. Another negative: Mechanics say that the rear break design is stupid and leads to excessive replacements.

• 

  whoa tranny - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By GiGi - August 12 - 8:21 pm

  Buyer Beware of transmission. Car has been excellent up until tranny just started going haywire all at once with no warning. Seen complaint after complaint about transmission and seems to be a defect that Ford will not acknowledge.

• 

  Make friends at your local gas station - 2014 Ford Fusion
  By Doug Miller - August 12 - 6:10 pm

  I love the way this car looks and drives.... but, its never seen a gas station it doesnt want to stop at. Getting a combined mpg of less than 21 is simply not ok for a modern car with a 4 cylinder engine. Im sure its the AWD thats costing me at the pump, but I never expected to take such a huge hit over the EPA estimates. Im no leadfoot, and I regularly get better than the EPA estimates in most my cars. Finally, Ill never buy another car with a built in navigation system. Ive had one previously (in a 99 Volvo), but this one is much worse. First, it cant be used while the car is moving. I know. I know. Its a safety thing. But if my passenger cant use it while Im driving, then its simply not going to get used at all because we both have smart phones, and Im not interested in stopping to fiddle with the nav system. And of course, the navigation system needs map updates. Ford sets the price on these at $149 per annual(ish) update. Thats right, for the cost of a Garmin GPS with lifetime map updates, you can buy a one-time map update. Besides, why on earth would I buy another Garmin? Ive got a smart phone. Its maps are updated in virtual real time, and the google traffic updates are FAR more accurate. Im glad I didnt pay extra for the nav system, but it will always be there as a constant reminder of poorly implemented technology. Not sure how long Ill keep this car. Im just not interested in pouring money into a gas hog.