Ford Fusion Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.43/5 Average
1,419 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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:

Showing 801 through 810 of 1,419.00
  • My first "family car" - 2006 Ford Fusion
    By -

    I missed my 2001 ZX3 after it was totaled (I bought when I was single).I needed a 4-door sedan with a first rate crash test rating with some power and NOT boring, Oh and affordable. Bought it used - great deal! The imports were expensive, I did not want to settle foe a 4 cylinder. I was thinking about the Impala and the G6.

  • Relieved - 2008 Ford Fusion
    By -

    I traded my 05 F-150 4wd 5.4 to save on gas (it was hard) but this made it painless. Its fun to drive, has great mpg, and just feels comfortable. Love the audiophile stereo and the sync

  • Had to opt for a car - 2008 Ford Fusion
    By -

    I had to move back into the car world with the current gas prices, and I am happy as could be in my Fusion. The car is well laid out and fun to drive. the engine does not fill the cabin with the "tin" noise I feel most 4 cyl engines have. The leg room up front is great, and I have been able to stuff everything I could think of in the trunk area. I have put on over 3k and my gas mileage is avg 28.2 mpg. I was in a F150 (14.7mpg) so it has been a good choice

  • I thought is was a FORD - 2006 Ford Fusion
    By -

    Recently purchased my Fusion and I absolutely love it. I needed a commuter car and got a luxury car instead. The SEL V-6 is well put together and seems to love being on the road.

  • Good car - 2007 Ford Fusion
    By -

    This car has down every thing it is supposed to, run without any trouble. Change the oil and put gas in it and maybe air up the tires that is all I have done to it. Its comfortable and handles like a dream. I test drove the Camry...I should say, rented one in FL it was brand new and I was pretty inpressed with it unit I went to close the door an the side panel fell out. It just popped out in my hands with almost no effort. Not my idea of quality. The new Accord is ugly and expensive so off to the Ford dealer I went.

  • Top Notch Ride - 2010 Ford Fusion
    By -

    What a great car! As a loyal Ford owner for over 20 years of my life this is by far the best vehicle Ive owned. Although Ive never owned a luxury car before it sure does feel like I do now. The car handles like it is on rails and has features I never dreamed Id have in a vehicle. I constantly get compliments on the car and observe frequent rubber necking while driving. Regardless of your preference for vehicle manufacturers, this vehicle is a must test drive for anyone serious about purchasing a performance sedan.

  • Great Car - 2006 Ford Fusion
    By -

    No complaints. I think Ford has finally pushed there #1 selling car (taurus) to second spot. The Fusion runs, handles, and looks great. I am a former ford owner of a Mustang. Many head gasket problems. I told myself I would never again go Ford. I did, and happy I did so.

  • So far do good - 2010 Ford Fusion
    By -

    I just got the vechicle last week. And this is my first car. I love the exterior, the face is so cool. Compared cars on the market Ford fusion offer the best deal among the most mid-size sedan. I really like spending time sit behind the wheels. Im a tall guy(6.5),when i sit in the car there still have a lot of room overhead and leg. Personally, I think Ford did a good job on this new 2010 sedan.

  • Pleasantly suprised and relieved ! - 2008 Ford Fusion
    By -

    I reluctantly parked my F150 5.4 V8, like many others, and chose the Fusion to benefit from fuel mileage. I managed to lower my monthly payment and figure to save approximately $200 a month in gas. I had driven the Fusion a couple other times and was not really that impressed. But, I gave it another chance and ended up buying it with a great Ford financing deal. This car is a very pleasant surprise! There is almost nothing negative to say about it. The 4 cyl is adequate with 5 sp manual, but would be much better with more HP. The best part is the Sport Appearance Package - handles like a dream! Buy this car - you wont be disappointed.

  • Deal or No Deal? DEAL! - 2006 Ford Fusion
    By -

    Excellent gas mileage. Sporty look. Drives like a sport car, hugs the curves, gets from zero to ? in a amazing few seconds fast! Has safety air bags not only for the front, but for the whole side also. Has steel safety bars in the front side doors. Drives like a dream. For the low price, you get an amazing amount of extras. Has a 6-cd and 6 speakers, the steering wheel moves not only out, but up and down like a airplane. Ample head and body room, adjustable drive seat also adjust up and down. Plenty of storage room, inside the car and trunk. Back seats fold down. Radio feature on steering wheel, so you dont have to reach over and adjust the actual radio. Excellent low price.

Ford Fusion Reviews By Year:
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