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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  Stunning and Powerful - 2016 Ford Fusion
  By DK - December 31 - 6:13 am

  Ive had this car a month and it has been an absolute dream. I traded in a 2014 Focus which turned out to be one the worst cars I have had. I was worried that this car would feel too big or too boring coming from the Focus. That has turned out to not be the case. This car is very comfortable and the quality of materials is outstanding. Soft touch areas surround the cabin and there are lots of little details that make the interior feel luxurious. The exterior is very sporty, especially with the SE Appearance Package. My car is also equipped with the SE Technology Package which I have to say is a must have. The sound system is amazing and the entertainment system is easy to use and is intuitive. The touch sensitive screen can be a bit laggy but its nothing that bothers me too much. My car has the 1.5L EcoBoost engine. This car has a lot of power. I have noticed that the fuel economy is less than what the sticker states, which I knew about before choosing the Fusion. I am getting 22 mpg with mostly city driving, so its not too bad. I would definitely recommend the Fusion! I have been impressed thus far and do not regret my decision.

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  Disappointment - 2015 Ford Fusion
  By Randall - December 28 - 7:02 am

  I bought the car new and have owned for about 1 and half years now. The car is not worth the sticker price. For 25K I expected much more. Looks like a performance sedan, but performs like a cheap economy car. While the numbers on the 2.5 liter four look good on paper, it only comes at the high rpms. I do a lot of highway driving, and in heavy traffic the constant down shifting to keep up with the flow is beyond annoying. The sport mode on the transmission keeps it in a lower gear longer, but every time you let off of the gas completely, it down shifts to slow the car down. The “sync” system has bugs, and built in annoyances. The system has locked up several times and will not reset without shutting the car off and restarting. I have the feature to automatically call 911 turned off. So every time you start the car, about 60 seconds later the system interrupts the radio to tell you 911 assist is turned off. Pros: We get around 8000 miles between oil changes. Gas mileage on the highway is great, around town, not so much. For city driving the car is not bad. Lucky for me, my wife “who only drives around town” loves the car. She is driving it, and I took her Jeep.

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  Senior Owner - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By summit123 - December 27 - 10:16 pm

  The quality and performance are second to none.The safety features and driving experience again prove Ford will give my family years of good service. I recommend this to all senior citizens the average life of this car is 12years 250,000 miles with a local dealer nearby. Ford again has proven it knows how to build Quality.

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  Love this car!! - 2016 Ford Fusion
  By James - December 24 - 5:37 am

  Ive driven this car from Florida to new york multiple times, and its amazing!! Very comfortable and easy to drive. It has superior handling due to its fully electric steering. I was almost in an accident due to a sudden stop and the brakes on this car are awesome. It has a pretty good sound system, but the problem is I can never get the Bluetooth to connect on my phone!!. The car has decent acceleration with the 2.5 liter, but not the best at passing cars on the highway (takes a while), but it easily cruises at 100mph on the highway. Driving through the mountains, the engine is pretty noisy if you do around 80mph due to high reving. Other than that, its an amazing car and I love it!!

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  Comfortable and Fun to Drive! - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By RPelfrey - December 13 - 7:36 am

  We purchased this car Memorial Day and took a 1300 mile round trip 5 days later to the Smoky Mountains. We are well pleased with the way it handles with its very sporty and decisive steering. Our fuel economy was 30 mpg on the highway, and 23 in the city. Rear seating is excellent for two adults, even for long trips. There is low wind noise and light road noise.

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  Awesome Car! - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By Mika - December 7 - 4:10 pm

  Ive never really been a Ford lover since Ive always had Subarus, but I must say this is the best car Ive ever had. Not only is it easy and fun to drive, but its also comfy and roomy. The Fusion is also a smooth ride and you hardly feel bumps or potholes. I do a lot of long distance driving and am in my car for hours on end, and it is just awesome!

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  The Next Generation of Sedan for Ford - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Dee - December 4 - 2:37 pm

  Being a imported car fan (VW owner) , I am quite pleased with the specs and overall feel of the V6 SEL Sedan. I think Ford just hit a new peek. Looking forward to seeing what theyve done to better this already great car in the 2008 autoshow.

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  Bbest purchase made - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By Rodrigo - November 25 - 12:57 am

  This is by far the best purchase Ive ever made. The car looks outstanding and different, and it performs spectacular. A lot of features that during my commute to school and work, it makes traffic bearable, that and the really good gas mileage. When added with the steeda performance parts this vihicle becomes the best sedan for the money. I absolutely love this car. Ive entered it on different car shows and it has won 1st place on domestic sedan class.

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  2007 Fusion SE 5spd Great Car - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By Kris Holden - November 24 - 8:57 am

  My fusion is a great car always been a GM guy traded my 96 trans am in for it because of children. Ford has really impressed me on the design of the fusion it really does handle like a european car I have upgraded wheels and tires that make for a great look on a inexpensive fun car.

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  Great car after all bugs removed - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By nance - November 23 - 1:01 pm

  I love this car, but its taken a while to get all the bugs out. Four malfunctions after purchase. Ford repaired all and dealerships could not have been nicer. Serpentine belt screetching and it took over a year and a half for third dealership to finally find and solve problem. Overall, great car. I love driving it. Handles beautifully on the road. Gets over 30 miles to the gallon on long trips close to 30 around town. Im pleased. Its a 4 cylinder, and I have plenty of power.