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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  Sweet ride - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By matt3319 - October 25 - 9:11 pm

  I have always enjoyed looking at the Fusion, mainly the SEL models. Now that Ford has slapped the sport appearance package on the SE its a sweet ride. I traded my 08 Tribute 2.3L for a 2.3L SE. What a difference with the same engine and a 5 speed auto makes. This car is so loaded and the rebates made it a no-brainer. I had X plan and a $3500 rebate. I bought a $23500 car for $17800. Vapor silver is so sleek looking with the 18" wheels. Mileage should be a better than 26mpg on my tribute. All my friends love the aggressive look. Honda, Toyota, Nissan and even the new Mazda6 just cant compare. Interested to see what the refreshened Fusion looks like, but the deals wont be as good!

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  What can I say? Im totally impressed! - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By ccf - October 22 - 5:04 am

  My partner has a 07 Accord and was very skeptical when I insisted on buying this car. Now, hes wanting to borrow my car to run errands! Overall quality is wonderful, the SYNC is great, and it has a much better ride than his Accord. The best part? Dependability! His Accord has been in the shop seven times in the past year, twice within the first month, the back window and cruise control stopped working. And the very best part? The deal! 0% interest and financed for only 36 months, my payment is still under $550 and in 3 years shes all mine! His Accord is financed for five years and still has a higher payment with fewer features at 4.5% and we both have great credit!

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  Cheaper than 1995 - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By Back to Cars - October 12 - 9:36 pm

  I was leasing a Dodge Dakota (14mpg). Made the decision to not get another pickup pretty easy. Had been watching the Ford Fusion for sometime. Reliability ratings are excellent, most reviews are above average, its somewhat an American vehicle, I think. When Ford announced the rebates of $3000 on Sept. 10, it made the decision very easy. A brand new Ford Fusion SE with sunroof and sync for around $16000 is simply amazing. I paid $18000 for a new Mazda MX-6 in 1994 with less features than today, obviously. I have the 5-speed, I4. I have always loved 5-speed cars, and this one is no exception. Very forgiving clutch, and the power is not bad. Very fun to drive. 26mpg ave. 60-hwy/40-city

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  Not a wow kind of car. - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By jsmith52 - October 4 - 8:58 pm

  Overall the car is just average. There is nothing amazing or fun or neat about the car. Seats are above average in terms of comfort. The car also has some decent visual appeal at first. However, the fuel economy stinks and the technology is outdated. Ford has improved on the reliability but still does not have great fit and finish. There are little rattles and weird clicking sounds. The engine flat out stinks. Needs dual vvti to help with power and gas consumption. Car also needs bigger output, possibly a 3.5 liter. If you are going to buy American Ford probably is your best bet but I only bought the car because I was on Fords discount plan.

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  Very reliable - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By Chris - October 2 - 7:53 am

  Overall the car has been very reliable. Its been 4 years now that Ive had the car and i only have a few complaints but none that are major. My few complaints are the cheap quality paint and the cheap interior. I take good care of my car and since the time Ive had it the paint has started to form rust bubbles and is chipping on the trunk. My windshield sprayer stopped working, passenger side dash is popping up along with the plastic piece on the windshield vent. However im very pleased with the powertrain. Its been very reliable and still runs like ot did the day i bought it. I got it with 65k miles on it and it now has 138k miles and is still running strong. I havent even had to have a tune up on it yet. The 3.0 V6 is a great engine with some good pep to it. The transmission has been very reliable too.

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  Best Bang for you Buck! - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By Yeah I got a Ford - October 1 - 2:54 pm

  I was and still am a little skeptical about buying a Ford but for the price you cannot beat its features. I got the Blue Suede Package and its really sharp looking. I wish the car had a little more power but nothing an intake and exhaust cannot fix. Overall I love it so far. Its slick and the sports tuned suspension is slick when handling corners.

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  Best Buy Ever - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By JeffJJackson - September 30 - 11:21 am

  I knew this was the car for me from the first time I sat in it..lol.. The test drive was my comfirmation. I got about 35 mpg on my trip and did have to refuel until I made it back home..awesome.. Driving this car is an experience.. just test drive one, youll understand..oh yeah..I have the 5 speed manuel..so much fun to drive..

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  Fun and Practical - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By Tony W - September 30 - 6:33 am

  I was looking at the Altima because it was firmer than the base Fusion, but drove a "Sport Appearance Package" car with the tire and suspension upgrade. It has a much different feel. The manual transmission gives you control over the engine the automatic cant. It is a blast to drive and reminds me of a mid-80s Shelby Charger I used to have a long, long time ago, except this car has six airbags, room for 5, etc. Mileage is about 25 in mixed driving. My commutes to work and home are now much more fun.

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  The AWD is great - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By matt - September 27 - 12:37 pm

  Love the car ,bought it because of the AWD,car is very functionable and lots of space ,comfortable to drive. Had a Lincoln LS before and the finish and quality is right up there. Really like the storage compartment in the dash and media controls on the steering wheel.Fold down passeneger seat makes it very easy for carrying longer items. The AWD is awesome, freeway mileage is 32 -35 mpg, city mileage as low as 16 mpg with mild driving. Installed rear back-up sensors (offered in 2008) as rear visability is poor. I would definitely recommend this. I would absolutely buy another one.

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  Love This Car! - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By carol G - September 25 - 2:01 pm

  I absolutely love my new car. The gas mileage is as good as most imports but yet you get the full size car. I have been averaging 28 city and 35 highway. Even with the 4 cyl I have plenty of power and acceleration. The only downside of this car is headroom. I have the sunroof and everybody in my family is over 6 feet tall and you have to have the seat adjusted down in order to not have your head touch the ceiling. I will never buy another car that does not have SYNC. That has to be the best thing ever put in a car.