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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  Yes, Virginia, Camry has a competitor! - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By 01Stang - March 2 - 4:13 pm

  I bought this car to replace my venerable 2001 Mustang, which I loved dearly for 120,000 miles. The Fusion will not turn heads like the ol Pony, but it will give you a quiet, comfortable, and reasonably sporty ride, plenty of toys, and good passing power with the V6. It also comes with a heaping portion of practicality. The trunk is vast, rear seating is comfortable, and I have been able to squeeze 31 MPG out of the V6 in pure highway driving. This is a great car for long road trips. If youre looking at mid-size sedans, dont forget to try a Fusion. Youre in for a pleasant surprise.

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  Gorgeous Quality Car - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By GEORGE - February 28 - 5:36 pm

  I was greatly surprised that after two months the car has been flawless! The Fusion is sporty and yet classy, and has a lot of room for passengers, especially in the trunk. The interior design reminds me of an Acura and the quality of a $10,000 more expensive car. I owned a 2003 Altima V4 and paid just about the same for the Fusion. However, I got a V6 in the Fusion which provides great pickup when compared to the Altimas V4 for just a little less gas mileage. The Fusions A/T smoothness in down shifting and acceleration has no rivals in other small cars like the Altima or Camry. This car has the look, feel and quality of a good $35,000 car with its 50 series (profile) tires.

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  Love it - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By Rick - February 24 - 9:46 am

  Getting rid of her Camaro, my wife needed a family car. We looked at the pricey Camry, Prius, Accord and Mazdas out there and landed on the Fusion. Mainly for the styling, room, and price tag. We bought it used with 10,800 miles on it. She does a 60/40 HWY/City driving that yields great mileage. Constantly getting 25 mpg in the city and 31-37 mpg on the highway. A recent 200 mile road trip yielded 34.8 mpg at 75 mph with A/C on and 4 people plus luggage in the vehicle. We really love the mp3 input jack that allows for unlimited music tunes through our trips. She drives 25 miles one way to work and gets an average of 30.6 mpg with her city/hwy driving.

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  Could have been a great car - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By Tom - February 22 - 4:26 am

  Mine is actually the SE model not the SEL, I liked the looks and handling of the Fusion, although its a little rough on a bad road, also the price was right, its such a shame that Ford has kept this underpowered engine for so long, it is so slow at take off and merging, I should have gotten the V6, otherwise a nice car and a good value.

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  You can look, but if you research, you will buy - 2015 Ford Fusion
  By Bob - February 21 - 1:51 am

  Look for reviews from owners , research the top 10 used cars list, rent one if you can and drive it for a 1-3 hour trip. Thats what I did over a year ago, 15,400 miles ago and I have no regrets. i have a 2015 SE, leather power seats, moon roof, etc. Two visits to the shop, one for a campaign and another for a front seat belt sticking. Love the car and my wife loves it as well. Traded a vehicle with a V/6 in for this 2.0 turbo 4 cyl. and there is no noticeable difference in power.

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  I love this car - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By 2666loco - February 20 - 1:33 pm

  It is fun to drive, feels solid, and I would recommend it and would buy another. Im getting 21-22mpg in town and 29 highway but havent put a lot of miles on it. 4 cylinder engine has plenty of power for me, 16 valves move! Lots of standard features that used to cost extra. Standard CD is great system. It did well on ice with FWD. It corners very well at 60mph. I disagree with most nit picks by other reviewers. Prices good now with 2010s out soon. My only option is automatic transmission. Controls good, well placed and easy to use.

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  Used to be a good car, but now... - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By lrademac08 - February 17 - 8:52 am

  When I got this car, I opted for all the features I could get. I wanted something with decent mileage, yet good driving. Previously owned two Ford Taurus in past, but the Fusion is not as good as a Taurus. I think the Fusion is built for tiny & skinny people who dont mind shelling out hundreds of dollars after 2yrs of driving. When I got the car new it Looked sharp & styling like a mini Cadillac. But Its interior is small. Overall I wish I would of got the Ford 500. Mileage is not made for anything but City driving. Tires wore out after 24K miles, and recently the driver side car handle broke completely off so cant get in car normally. Have to take to dealer to see what they can do.

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  After 6000 miles - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By Marlin - February 15 - 11:56 pm

  Was looking for gas mileage (priority) in a sporty fun car. Considered the Honda Fit, Civic, Toyota Corolla all with the sport package option. When I looked at the Focus it didnt fit me well. The salesman directed me to the midsized Fusion, I knew it was my car! The only hesitation was the advertised MPG. I drive rural, highway and city about 60 miles a day. Now after 6000 miles I get about 27.5 MPG combined driving. Highway alone about 31.5 MPG. I am very happy with the Fusion. It looks good and it is fun to drive.

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  I love this car! - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By Tara - February 14 - 9:55 pm

  I am in love with this car. My Fusion is Tuxedo Black. It looks amazing. It rides beautifully. Sync is just incredible. Your IPod plugs right in for Sync. You dont even need the six CD changer. It handles well. I feel so safe in this car. I have test driven the Camry and the Accord and this car just blows them out of the water. I have never felt this way about any car I have owned in the past.

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  Ecellent Choice - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By YoyoKitten - February 13 - 1:47 pm

  Just got this car off an auction, and it is great! I rank it alongside my Honda Accord!