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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  Great Car - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By Doug - December 20 - 10:20 pm

  I went on our first road trip. I was surprised at how quiet, comfortable, and efficient the car was. I didnt get tired driving at all. We averaged 33mpg going 70mph on the freeway. The 4 cylinder isnt like a V6, but it is very adequate. When I had to pass it had no problem getting up to speed. The only thing is that Im 6 and I have to lower the seat to have adequate head room. I love the sync.

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  Best car Ive ever owned - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By bdr - December 18 - 9:28 am

  I have had this car for around 5 months and have had no problems and a ton of peole saying how much they loves this car the engine has tons of power with good gas mileage even without the AWD it does amazing in the New York winters traded it for my unreliable Camery with crappy headgaskets and transmission this car is awesome and also it was a few thousand less than all the media cars (Toyota Honda). Highly recommend best car for your money

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  Nice vehicle.....Except - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Burned Up - December 16 - 2:26 am

  Moved from a MKZ to a Fusion Sport because we feel we got a better car with more features for less money. That said, we never had any problems with the MKZ. We were about 5 miles from the dealership on the day we took delivery when we noticed a "burning rubber" smell in the cabin. Thought it would go away, but it did not. Took it back to the dealer at about 200 miles and they smelled it but couldnt find anything. They said to drive it and the smell would go away. 1200 miles later it still smells, its back at the dealers and they think its our imagination. Not what I expect from the "Car of the Year".

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  Chevy man converted - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By truckinkjm - December 15 - 8:41 am

  This is my first Ford and I must say this is the most trouble free new car Ive ever had. But first let me point out a few things that bother me a little. First I find the headroom is too low. Im 5 10" and my head is about a inch and 1/2 from the roof. No standard auto headlights, no standard outside temp, no standard traction control. The headlight switch down too low on the dash and so are fan and temp. switches. But that aside this is a great car very reliable and fun to drive. I highly recommend this car.

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  Great Car for the Money - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Rick P - December 14 - 2:26 am

  I just bought this car and it is great. Mileage and comfort were my two main driving factors for a new car. This car gives a great value proposition. I test drove the Malibu, Impala, 300 and Charger and still chose the Fusion. The Charger/300 was a close second but was $4,000 more for basically the same features. The pop up storage on the dash is cool. I didnt need the sunroof but basically got it throw in after I completed the deal with the dealership.

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  This car is great - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By AARON - December 10 - 12:27 pm

  When my wife and I went shopping for a new vehicle for her, we were open minded, we spent the summer looking at just about every vehicle in our price range. We couldnt agree on anything, as goes with pretty much everything else. When we took a Ford Fusion out for a test drive, we both liked it. We did take a few other cars out for test drives, and nothing compared to the Fusion, and I knew we wouldnt be happy with anything else. We settled with the 4cyl, because she mainly drives around town. But I was shocked when our family went to visit relatives 200 miles away, and with our boys, 6 and 15 years old, who didnt once complain about being cramped, and a trunk load. still averaged 28.5 MPG.

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  Its OK - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By DC - December 9 - 2:40 am

  This car is OK. It isnt the greatest, and it isnt the worst. It is comfortable, but underpowered with the 4 cylinder engine. An Accord or Camry would leave this car in the dust. My car had door panels which rattled, and rather than waste my valuable time going back to the dealer, I tightened the screws myself. Where is quality control? Anyway....the car rides nice, and it is obvious that American car making has improved a lot. Regardless, for what amounts to the same price as an Accord or Camry, this car is missing "the little things", things like a coin holder built into the center console, and a locking gas cap.

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  Is this REALLY a Ford? - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Andrew K. - December 7 - 8:30 pm

  The 2008 RAV4 gave its life for us in a rear end accident. Had to go looking for cars. Rented a 09 Fusion and couldnt believe the quality, and bought a 2010 Fusion. Every time I get in I really cant believe its a Ford! I am a car nut and really picky on drive ability, quality, fit and finish. This Fusion has it all. The 4 cylinder (SEL) has all the latest technology and it shows. The starting circuit is cool, just touch the key into the start position and release, the car automatically cranks until it starts (I bet you didnt know that!). Sony XM/Sirus radio, great seats, and good driving position.

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  Buying the lease...its that good - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By DRobinson - December 4 - 7:44 pm

  I will never buy out a lease, until now. I had a 39 month lease and am buying it 12 months early. This car is great for the everyday commuter. The seats are exceptionally comfortable and reliability has been great. The car looks great inside and out.

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  2006 Ford Fusion SEL - Love it! - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By a.j - December 3 - 10:52 am

  The car is amazing. Fuel economy is exceptional. 30 mpg - city, 35 mpg - hwy. The interior is beautiful. It has lots of luxurious touches. Love the exterior temperature display. Which actually is accurate. The automatic climate control is wonderful.