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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  Surprisingly Happy! - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By Very Pleased - July 2 - 8:48 pm

  Bought the 2008 4-cylinder Fusion in February, 2008 - owned it 1 year and 4 months. Coming from an 8-cylinder Explorer, I am surprised at how pleased I am with a 4-cylinder. Although it does rev up pretty high to get up any speed, it does get up there quickly, and I have no problems keeping up with anyone on the highway. I have not had the first problem with this car. On a trip to FL, got 31 mpg. Cant beat that!

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  Owners Beware! - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By leopold fuchs - July 2 - 4:39 pm

  I have a 2006 Fusion 4 cylinder 5 speed. I generally enjoyed this car and was enthusiastic about it until 2 weeks ago when the locater pins fell out of the fly wheel destroying the transmission, clutch and fly wheel. The Ford tech says it is a fault of the manufacturer but Ford says, sorry guarantee is up. To make matters worse I have been waiting two weeks for parts as simple as the bolts that secure the pressure plate to the fly wheel. I bought this car to support the American manufacturer. The next guy I support will be named Hans. This has been an nightmare.

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  2009 V6 SE - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By Snoman - June 30 - 9:42 pm

  Bought as a daily driver to work and back. After 4000 miles it has become a great car to own. This car replaced my 1998 Taurus. With a V6 I average 29-30 miles to the gallon, if using 10% ethanol blended gas then 26-27. 0% for 72 and invoice pricing made it a great deal.

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  I was duped - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Michael Torbett - June 30 - 2:56 am

  This car is a fair car fell very short on mileage 15-17 on the V-6 in town. I am using good gas also, and driving habits. I was told by the dealer the mileage is figured out on a flat surface at 35-45 mph it says 20-29mpg on the sticker, not so on my vehicle. The good things; 6 speed auto very good. Sound system is good, AC is great. Noisy brakes on parking lot maneuvers - again I was told thats normal. I drive other cars and do not hear the brakes groan. I regret ever buying it. Oh I have to admit the dealer was great when I complained about the mileage; checking alignment, tire pressure and engine codes and they gave me a car to drive. Not a happy camper here.

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  GREAT BUY!!!!! - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By JM - June 28 - 2:43 pm

  I have owned a 2000 Cadillac Eldorado in the past and MY 2009 Ford Fusion is a more smooth and fun to drive car! I recommend a Ford Fusion to any and everyone!!!!

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  I love every square inch! - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By Kevin - June 27 - 8:24 pm

  I test drove many mid-size sedans and the Fusion blew me away! I was hesitant to look into Ford, but Im very glad I did because my car is fantastic! From the sexy exterior design that demands to be recognized on the road, to the sleek fully loaded interior, this car has it all! It drives like a dream, looks like a concept car, feels like a luxury sedan, and costs half as much! I have been averaging about 28.5 MPG through mixed driving and I have a very heavy lead foot. I have the 4 cylinder, but the power behind it feels like a V6. I plan on keeping this car for a very long time, and I would recommend the Fusion to anyone!

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  SUPERIOR CAR for its class! - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Paratrooperwife - June 25 - 12:03 pm

  OH MY GOODNESS, this car is just awesome! I traded my Chevy for this and what a difference. Ive got the SEL V6 and its really got a lot of power. I love the leather seats, heated, and the body is so sleek. Ford really thought of all the details inside and out. Great viability and handling. Heck, they even paid extra attention to the details in the manual - now thats impressive.

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  Hope shes not totaled! - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By Christine - June 23 - 7:16 pm

  I bought my 08 Fusion in October of last year and I love it more and more every day. Its an amazing car! I opted for the Sport Appearance Package with the 18" wheels and upgraded suspension. It is such a classy looking car, I have people asking me all the time, "What kind of car is that?" or my favorite, "Thats a Ford???" It handles beautifully, much better than my last two Focuses. Unfortunately, I was broadsided in it this weekend by a driver going at least 40-45 mph. My Fusion kept myself and my passenger from being seriously injured. 10 for Safety! Im hoping my insurance company decides shes a keeper and they opt to repair her! If not, I will definitely pick up an 09 Fusion!

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  Nice Car/Sporty - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By NIU2006 - June 20 - 4:08 pm

  I bought the 09 Fusion back in May and got the 0% financing and Im extremely happy with this car. It has a smooth drive and for the price, gives me options that Honda, Toyota, and Nissan couldnt match. V6 has great pick up, especially for getting on the highway. The sync is great too that hooks up to my cell phone. Clarity on the other end of the phone is really good too, no complaints from who Im talking to. Not to mention this car turns heads and people from my office are shocked that it is a Ford. Overall Im extremely happy and no problems so far with with 2,500 miles on it. The only negative would be city MPGs (18), but that goes with the V6. I highly recommend the Fusion.

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  The Finest Car I ever owned - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By danavan - June 20 - 2:03 am

  I was a VW salesman in the 60s. Ive owned at least 25 cars since then. My last car was a Chrysler Cirrus. Not bad but the Fusion is just the best. More than adequate room inside. Superb power, great gas mileage and just plain fun to drive. It surely is a "looker" wherever I go. I just think Ford has done a superb job with this vehicle.