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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  One well built and fun to drive car - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By RGS - October 14 - 5:23 pm

  Have had my Fusion for 3.5 years and only problem was a safety interlock system gone haywire fixed under warranty. I got it with every option they offer. . Get mid 20s around town and sometimes over 30 mph on highway driving under 65 mph. People who ride with me comment about how nice its appointed and how smooth it rides.

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  The Bomb Digity - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Dave - October 10 - 11:44 pm

  First car Ive owned, 25 years of trucks. 60 mile commute 5-6 days a week this was the best thing I could have done. 74000 miles, oil changes not often enough, 1 air filter, tires at 55000. Holds 4 sets of golf clubs in the trunk 4 of my buddies and will still allow me to pass anything driving the speed limit. Absolutly no complaints. At 100k will give this to my kid then buy another.

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  Poor build quality and materials - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Worst Ford bought - October 1 - 9:06 am

  This is the worst new car Ive ever bought. After only 1000 miles, I have more defects than other cars having >100K miles. I am appalled this car ever made it off the line. Trunk leaks, bad window regulator, dash and door rattles, failed side sensors, loose sun visor, all before the first trip to the dealer. Why buy this car?

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  Fact - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By Fact - September 30 - 5:57 pm

  Is fact now that a control arm defect is confirm, but at 25,000 mile is maintenace service were from dealer. So do you want to replace the problem for $419 with the same defect product. Also, if tried align with defect product will cause gas will burn faster and wear you tire faster. Also engine correction on V belt replace. To must problem. Plus a copy of MADZA 6 suspension, i should have just but Madza. Rate now of $10,000 and less and year and model, if paid more you got robbery.

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  First Impression - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By TCB - September 28 - 12:46 am

  Recently purchased the 06 Ford Fusion SEL V6 6-speed and im impressed with the interior and the exterior is so-so. I plan to add ground effects and replace the grille to an aftermarket "net-looking" grille. Has power and handling is great. Bought it with 46k miles and hope to get another 46k without a major repair. Not as responsive as I would like. I went to pass a truck on the interstate and it took 3 seconds or more for the car to downshift and pickup, but when it did it passed the truck without any problems. Ive heard great things about the reliability of the fusions and that is what my rating is based on. After 25k+ miles I will update the post with hopefully good things.

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  Great Car / Bad Fuel Milage - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Paul - September 20 - 6:20 am

  Really like the car, the way it looks feels and responds. Just dont like the fuel mileage, we are only receiving around 14-16 mpg on the hwy and 10-12 in the city. Really disappointed in the projected fuel economy for this car because it is such a nice car to drive. I feel we will run the lease out and get something better on fuel mileage next term.

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  I get too many compliments! - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Rob - September 19 - 1:56 pm

  The only real complaint I have is that Im tired of giving that awkward "thank you" when people compliment my car. I got the Sterling Gray SEL with spoiler and 18" Al rims. I absolutely love driving this car. Sync and other features are awesome. Ride is amazingly smooth and quiet that it rivals most luxury sedans. Has a surprisingly powerful I4 engine as well.

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  This is a great car! - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By mjhess123 - September 18 - 11:06 pm

  I have to admit, I like Fords so I may be a bit biased. However I also like quality. The Fusion gives me the best of both worlds. This car is a real winner and I have encouaged people to drive this car. I owned a 2000 BMW 328i with a sport suspension and I think the Fusion handles nearly as well. I would have never believed it had I not driven the car, but its very impressive. The V6 has plenty of power and I really like the 6-speed auto. Theres a little initial hesitation with a good stomp on the accelerator but the higher-end torque is nice. On top of that, its a sharp looking car that people notice. Ford did a great job with the Fusion and hopefully theyll sell many of them.

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  Decent Car - Take a Look at One - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By Jeff - September 11 - 3:34 pm

  Ive owned my Fusion for over a month now and have 1,200 miles on it. Ride is nice and has a very responsive steering system. The trunk is large and the gas mileage has been decent @ 25mpg. The V6 has good power and the transmission shifts smoothly. The headrests are not comfortable and need to be redesigned, hopefully they got it right on the 2010 model. Overall, I am very happy with it and we chose it over the Camry, Accord and Sonata. It was a tough decision but so far so good.

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  Excellent value for the dollar! - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By hobbes - September 5 - 9:50 pm

  Excellent midsize sedan. The "lesser" trims still pack tons of features, such as our new SE. The engine is more than capable, its not a sports car by any means, but the Mazda derived 6 speed manual lets you have a bit of fun. Sync works well, if a little confusing at first.