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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  It is a very good family car! - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By Memphisian - September 23 - 10:09 pm

  I own this Fusion SE for more than 1 year. You can not complain a lot on this car, except the power seat: I dont use it every month. It has no problem from the day I bought it. I drive almost all local and I can get 28/26 during summer/winter season, which is same gas mileage as my wifes Focus SE. It is better than my colleagues new Accord. I love the sound system and use it everyday. The power features are very convenient. Compared to Focus, it is so quiet. The computer is also a great feature. Now I hope it can be 10 years problems free. Best wish Ford can gain reputation again and be "proud to be made in America"!

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  Ford...who knew - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By DDRI - September 23 - 7:14 am

  This purchase was a hard one for us. We have had 2 cars over the past 20 years and both were Camrys. Of course we first test drove an 09 Camry and when we walked away we were not impressed. We then drove a slew of other mid-size sedans and last on our list was the Ford Fusion, all I can say is that it really should have been first. If you are considering this car test drive it first, you will not be disappointed. We bought the SE with auto and 4cyl for the MPG. Very smooth ride and plenty of power. Add in the Sync and you have a perfect car.

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  2006 Ford Fusion SE 4 cyl - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Austin Davis - September 21 - 10:36 pm

  I purchased this car for the sole purpose of saving gas. I drive it 40 miles/day round trip to work. I have tested the highway mpg to be around 28. I put amsoil in it when I got it so I wont be worrying about changing the oil for the next 25,000 miles. I put a K&N filter in it to further cut the long term costs. I put a nose cover on it because there is a lot of construction around here and the rocks and sand will tear the front end up. Plus it looks cool. At times I wish I had the v6 version, but overall it functions exactly as it should.

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  Best Ford Yet - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By duds - September 21 - 8:49 am

  Test drove many cars before this purchase and the Fusion was the most comfortable and stable car for the money. Sync is the best in car innovation, all cars should come with this but you can only get this on Ford.

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  Great car - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By Ella - September 20 - 3:18 pm

  I was used to driving a Subaru. I was a bit shy of buying this vehicle at first. After 4 months, I am glad I choose this car. It handles well and gas mileage is good 24-27 with local travel. I have been to the beach and back about 600 miles one way. It performed great and lots of positve comments. So all you Subaru lovers try the Fusion AWD.

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  What a Shock - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By John S - September 18 - 3:36 pm

  I switched out of a 2001 Ford Excursion into the 2009 Fusion. While I wanted to hate the "little" car, I have driven it for a few days and it is absolutely wonderful. The interior comforts are great and the exterior looks very nice. I linked by Blackberry to the SYNC and it works and sounds great. The car has good power, it is very comfortable, and other than the part about being significantly lower than the Excursion, I love this car.

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  Competes with Camry for cost of Corolla - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By Don - September 17 - 7:57 pm

  No car can match the features in the same price range. Very pleased. Consistently gets over 35 mpg hwy, 30 city. Best was 40.1 mpg on a trip of 280 miles, fully loaded! Most of car (60% +) is Mazda 6, platform, so this is no recycled Taurus. Very agile at 3100 lbs, brakes stop hard, and 4 banger has same acceleration as a 5 cyl Jetta. Seats are super comfortable, and trunk is large, equal to my midsize cougar. Best bang for the buck.

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  Happy until... - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Ken - September 17 - 12:57 pm

  Very pleased with my Fusion for the first 38,00 miles. First problem was the tires that came on the car wore out in 20,000 miles, I normally get around 40,000, next the key could not be removed from the ignition. Dealer replaced button on the shift lever, $206. Now the drivers side door handle broke, unable to open door from inside. Having checked with dealer yet on repair cost.

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  Comments after driving 1800 miles - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By willy - September 14 - 8:30 am

  I drove it to Tennesse and back immediately after buying it. 1449 miles at 70 mph and a little city driving in Knoxville. Used exactly 44.1 gallons of 87 octane fuel. Very nice indeed. Four wheel disc brakes are very nice. Rear wheel independent suspension is "sports car like" in feel. This car seats 5 adults comfortably and the fold down split banch rear seat is very nice for carrying bulky items. I really enjoy driving this Fusion.

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  Crash test - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By kat08 - September 13 - 11:36 am

  After much research 2 months ago we puchased our first new car in 20 years. I loved the car! The features, comfort, gas milage (up to 35. But the the very best we were in a multiple car accident and hit from the rear at 45mph with absolutley no bodily injury or even sore muscles. The vehicle is a total loss but it did its job we are all OK. I cant talk up the safety enough. Now we get to fight for another one. I really loved the car we test drove the Toyota Camry, Mazada 6, Volkswagen Jetta, Chevy Malibu and Saturn Aura before we decided on the fusion. We used the market value sheet from this website to negotiate the sales price. It worked wonders, they actuallly beat that price.