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:

• 

  FORD U.S.A. superior - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By Chad - April 20 - 3:55 pm

  First off absolutley great car inside and out. The features are great love the navigation, Sync is so cool , ambient lighting is a neat feature. 18 inch wheels with sport suspension great handling. Safety is key 5 star across the boards beat that imports!!! The audiophile is very good sound system for factory.

• 

  Highly Recommended! - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By Bob - April 12 - 6:58 pm

  After looking at Honda, Hyundai, Toyota, & Chevy alternatives I chose the Fusion. Ive been driving the car for nearly a month. No regrets so far whatsoever. This car is fun to drive! My commute is 45 minutes each way so Ive got to know the car pretty well. With the V6 I regularly get 28 mpg, and with the sync system and sirius radio Im entertained like Ive never been.

• 

  Great Car! - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Phillip Smith - April 12 - 11:33 am

  My wifes new Fusion is the best riding Ford with the least road noise Ive ever ridden in. Ive always been a Ford man but thought the Fords always had too much road noise but the new Fusion does not. Got the V6 with more than enough power. Gas mileage runs about 26 in the city and was 28.5 when new on the highway; should be around 30 or better now on the highway. Very tight made and a pleasure to drive.

• 

  Its about TIME! - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Wartowne - April 12 - 6:13 am

  I have put nearly 700 miles on this car in one week. I love it. I am so happy Ford has finally gotten a clue and made a car worth its salt. The price is excellent and the quality is high. Its fun to drive, is no slouch on power and has a very refined feel. The engine sounds and feels great at all throttle settings. I love the steering and placement of switches. The radio is a little inconvenient to operate and sometimes the buttons for the AC have to be pushed a couple of times to activate or deactivate the functions. The sounds system is great and the ride is very quiet on asphalt. Concrete adds lots of noise to the cabin. Money well spent!

• 

  I love my Fusion - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By spybgl - April 9 - 10:00 am

  I recently traded in my 2004 Ford F150 for a 2008 Fusion 4cyl SE. I dont miss the V8 like I though I would, but i love my current fuel economy. The 4cyl engine has a lot of power considering the size. Great overall comfort too. Almost got leather, but didnt really need it. Handles great in traffic and on the curves.

• 

  Ford Fusion Tremendous. Theyre BACK! - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Michael Shannon - April 9 - 1:10 am

  My goodness this car is super. We are also leaving Honda, and extremely happy with the Quality of this Fusion. The ride has to rival Germans selling at $40,000 more. Cant freaking believe FORD developed this machine for $21,000!!!!

• 

  love this car - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By chuck - April 8 - 1:05 pm

  Looked at all the competition for this vehicle Accord, Camry. Mazda 6, Sonata, Malibu and chose the Fusion. Had the most room and most comfort up front for a big tall buy that was tired of small cars. It is a blast to drive with a nice combination of power and comfort. Very nice fit and finish for the money with a host of nice little details that makes it fun to show off. Very nice Black paint job matched with the black leather and blue suede interior that my wife just loves. Overall can’t beat what you get for the money and Ford has matched the import quality in look and feel.

• 

  Happy Surprise - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By Jim - April 6 - 11:17 pm

  One test drive and I knew. Having already tested Camry, Accord, Subaru, Altima and Mazda 3, I thought Id see what Ford had done with the Mazda 6 chassis. Im happy to say that they hit a home run! Smooth, quiet, and plenty powerful even in the Colorado mountains, the AWD with traction and stability control makes this thing a blast to drive on the twisties. It handles ice and snow with a surprising (and reassuring) aplomb. I am proud of myself for making the right choice. (I did upgrade to aftermarket wheels and sticky tires and now its perfect!)

• 

  Excellent Car and Value - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By sbycarbuyer - April 6 - 2:21 pm

  very comfortable, stylish and execllent milage 28 to 29 so far. Commute over 60 miles each way everyday. Car is not as quiet as some but not that noticable. The turn signal is a bit high on the wheel but again I am being very critical. Ride is smooth and confortable and the preformance from a 4 cyc is great.

• 

  This Ford Should Be In Your Future! - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Fullerton - March 30 - 6:20 pm

  If you are shopping for a car in this class, you owe it to yourself to check out Fords new Fusion. This is the best Ford in ages, and a worthy competitor for Toyota and Honda. Power is smooth and responsive, handling terrific, and the cabin is spacious with excellent comfort. 30 MPG on highway, mid to high 20s city. Mine is black with bone leather interior, a striking combination. Many express surprise that it is a Ford, thinking it is something much more expensive. I have 7000 miles on it now, and the only repair has been a burned out turn signal bulb, covered under warranty. I looked at many cars (its a car nuts addiction,) and none impressed me like the Fusion did.