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 - 2015 Ford Fusion
  By mrnatertater - March 24 - 9:42 pm

  I love this car. I got rid of my 2012 focus. Couldnt stand the transmissions in those cars. My fusion however shifts smooth, rides great and looks amazing inside and out! I have the ruby red with the se appearance package. I got this car to use to mostly drive back and forth to work. Im getting on average 28-30 mpg combined. I highly recommend the fusion. I also have a 2013 explore which is great too. Ford has really stepped up their game in the past 10 years! You will be very happy with the fusion!

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  Fun to drive... - 2015 Ford Fusion
  By deputydog35 - March 18 - 9:44 am

  I bought this car brand new... Its super fast and fun to drive! However, Im a big guy 60" 285lbs and the driver seat is not real comfortable. The seats I have are heated and cooled! The driver seat does not lower enough to make it comfortable. The passenger seat goes much lower than the drivers seat. Other than that the car is great! I only have 10k miles on the car and get about 20mpg. Which is not very good!

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  2015 Ford Fusion SE 1.5L EcoBoost - 2015 Ford Fusion
  By big_al_62 - March 3 - 1:42 am

  Bought an SE in December last year with the following: 1.5L EcoBoost, Equipment Group 201A, Moonroof with garage opener, MyFord Touch, and 6-speed auto transmission. Now the car has 1,750 miles. Two major issues. First, the fit and finish are not as good as they should be. For example, the trunk lid and tail lights do not flush or lineup properly. The door handles also do not fit seamlessly. Second, the actual mixed mileage was far less than the EPA mixed one, i.e. 23 vs. 28. None of my family members drive harshly, as we are very light-footed. Otherwise, the car is fun to drive, comfortable to ride in, and nice to look at.

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  Been the perfect car - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By textfree101 - February 27 - 11:16 pm

  We bought ours brand new in 2006, it was a demo vehicle so it already had 3,000 miles on it, it is now 2015 and our car only has 80,000 miles on it, just had its first tune up, THESE FUSIONS NEED A TUNE UP BEFORE 100,000 MILES OTHERWISE SERIOUS PROBLEMS MAY OCCUR, we had friends who learned that the hard way. this car is only the 4-cylinder model but it doesnt seem as slow as everyone makes it out to be, and its been unbelievably reliable, only needed regular maintenance and a sense that had to be replaced at about 50,000 miles. Perfect midsized car.

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  Rounded - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By keithfoster - February 24 - 10:21 am

  This car is fantastic. I bought the car brand new on August of 06 and it now has 140k miles on it. I have had almost no issues with the car. The temperature read on the engine went out and the struts are bad, thats about it. The gas mileage is great, the car is spacious and quick (not terribly fast, but quick enough to get the job done), and it is reliable. If you are looking to buy this car and you arent sure since its an older car and may be high mileage, I hope that this helps you.

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  2010 Fusion Sport - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Maurice Lemmond - February 21 - 9:59 pm

  I really enjoy my Fusion. It has great power, fun to drive and very comfortable. The 3.5 liter engine has all the power anyone would ever need and gets respectable fuel mileage. I get about 16-18 in town and mid to high twenties on the highway.

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  2011 Fusion SEL - 2011 Ford Fusion
  By james892 - February 19 - 2:42 pm

  I bought my Fusion back in September of 2011 and would have to say that overall I am happy with my purchase. Although, I have had some unfortunate tire luck, nothing else major has happened to me in terms of problems. When it comes to actually driving the Fusion, it is a good commuter, but not fun to drive. I would recommend the V6/new Turbo 4s, along with AWD. Fuel economy for me has been subpar to say the least, seeing as how it is a 4-cyl. I was hoping for better fuel economy than a combined 22 mpg. No, I dont race around in it. My other complaint, which Ive seen a few times is that the Fusion can sometimes slip on slick, and even dry, road conditions. This can be annoying.

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  ford fusion - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By mrmaaggoo - February 11 - 1:00 pm

  This 2010 ford fusion is an absolutely beautiful car. Most people dont know where the transmission problems come from. There is a plug on the bottom of the transmission if you change it like the owners manual says [engine oil every 5,000 km trans every 30,000 km is what I do ]Dont be mad at the car or the builder cause you bought a car that someone didnt do the proper maintenance on. This car for the price and for what you get is a awesome car. If your looking at buying a used one I recommend you change the trans oil when you get it and again 10,000 km after then 30,000 km there after. when you drain it only 5L comes out not the 11L it holds the reason for doing it 2 times so fast

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  Still love it three years in - 2012 Ford Fusion
  By cottre22 - February 9 - 5:08 pm

  I got my 2012 Ford Fusion almost exactly three years ago (end of January 2012). The last time I purchased a car before the Ford was a 2005 Honda Civic. I bought the Civic for affordability but I was never really that into it. I love my Fusion. The best thing about it is the pickup. Thats something that you notice when youre coming from a Civic. The Fusion has 175 hp minimum (depending on your model) and so its easy to get up to speed when getting on the highway. My car is FWD but it handles okay in the snow. Its bigger and sturdier than my Civic so it doesnt slide around the road as much every time the wind blows. The "L" gear has also come in handy for getting out of snow banks.

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  Ford does it again! - 2015 Ford Fusion
  By herman15fusion - January 23 - 5:43 pm

  I recently traded a 2012 Ford Focus SE for a 2015 Ford Fusion SE with 1.5L Ecoboost engine. Man, what an upgrade from the Focus to the Fusion! There is a major difference in acceleration and engine performance. The transmission shifted smoothly, unlike the shake and shudder of the Focus. I currently have only 2,300 miles in the Fusion, but have never owned a better vehicle (Ive owned Ford, Honda, Chrysler, and Chevrolet). Im averaging 26mpg in city driving, and am usually an aggressive driver. The interior is roomy, quiet, and inviting. Even with a rear-facing carseat behind me, I have plenty of room in the drivers seat. I highly recommend this car! Way to go, Ford!