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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  Surprised Me! - 2012 Ford Fusion
  By Mr Picky - November 23 - 8:17 am

  I really didnt even want this car but had jus gotten a divorce and had to sell my Nice import. I bought the Fusion "for the time being" and ended up still owning it 4 years later! VERY pleasantly surprised by this car.

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  Comfort + Economy + Reliability - 2012 Ford Fusion
  By Gary B - November 22 - 2:09 pm

  We have 2 Toyotas and this Ford Fusion. Of all the cars, this one is the most comfortable to drive and ride in. It has been very reliable; only one issue in 5 years; a very slight leak of coolant from the water pump, which was replaced. We enjoy its handsome design, good size trunk, and for a basic model, it is quite loaded! The Ford Dealership has been very customer friendly, and we look forward to another 15 years of ownership!

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  The Ford I Thought Could! :( - 2016 Ford Fusion
  By Quentez H. - November 12 - 4:44 pm

  Let me start off by saying I USE to be a Ford fan. Both my parents had ford cars, I had two ford trucks, and I just got the 2016 Fusion and let me say this thing has been my worst nightmare. The only thing I can say that I like about it is the style and color, the low apr, and the price was pretty cheap. Other than that this car has been a lemon. Also, I feel like they screwed me over on my trade in giving me nothing for it. :( When I first got the car the Throttle body went out in it. Didnt cost me nothing but time and ease of mind having only 1000 miles on the car. After that, the camera stop working in the car at about 15,000 miles. I asked the ford dealership to look into it because the car is so new and they said it would cost me $100 to fix. I said no and went on about my business. At 25,000 miles the back passenger window started making this loud popping noise when going down. I asked them to check this out and guess what. It would cost me $100 for them to do so. Lol great help right?? Next, at 62,000 miles I went over my warranty for free oil changes by 100 miles and my one free key and I called and told them I would because they were closed the weekend I could come and guess what?? When I got their they didnt know what I was talking and that I was out of luck. They couldnt get me a key or oil change. I had to state I would post a review before they would listen to me and research that I did make contact with them. After I set down with this one rude gentleman, I set down with another one and he finally helped me. SMH Great Saturday spent. Now, since Im over my free oil changes I had to take my car some where else to get it done since Im paying now anyway. I take my car their and they come back in and say Mr.Hodge you have a oil leak behind your timing cover and value cover. its been like that a while because its burning and dirty. You cant see it because its hid under your skid plate. Who have been doing your oil changes??? I said FORD!!! lol I took pictures of course. So Im pretty sure this might not be covered or it will cost me. You know $100 or more. I wonder why they havent never said anything about it?? I know they can see it and they only do my oil changes before. The car only has 65,000 miles on it and its just a little older than a year and a half. I bought the car with 36 miles on it. So I bought a lemon and started off with negative equity because they tricked me on my trade in and time I drove off the lot the value was cut in HALF. I wonder whats next?? I know one thing Im done with Ford and when I get the value of the car and what I owe balanced I trading or selling it ASAP!

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  Ford Fusion Fun/Great Value - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Tony E - November 10 - 9:00 pm

  This car is a blast to drive. I went on an out of state trip recently to visit my family. During the trip I averaged "over" 40 MPG! (highway). I was getting nearly 600 miles between fill ups. This with the five speed automatic transmission. The transmission is smooth and down shifts to the appropriate power for easy passing, merging, etc. My SE model has the information center that electronically calculates mileage as well as other functions. This car feels very solid and quite lively. Something I didnt expect from the little four popper. Overall very happy with the car. It gives a sense of solid quality and value.

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  POS - 2017 Ford Fusion
  By Cockerdogs - November 7 - 7:07 am

  Good acceleration for an otherwise poor car at a high mark up. My 2015 Fusion SE Ecoboost 2.0 was a great car. This car isnt

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  A Ford I Love! - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By BC - November 4 - 11:16 pm

  This car is amazing. I never thought Id find myself saying ford made an awesome car, but WOW! Driving is extremely smooth on the car. If you want performance just floor it, and it will red-line shift for you. The interior is very comfortable and the NAVI package is very well integrated into the vehicle.

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  Love the car - Hate the headaches! - 2017 Ford Fusion
  By Brenda C. - November 4 - 12:53 pm

  I love the looks of the car. The ride is smooth, handles well, technology is awesome. Seats are comfortable. The problem: twice the first six weeks I had the car (purchased new) it has failed to start. Dealership said it was the battery and replaced. Car started fine for a couple of weeks, then did it again. The engine did not even try to turn over. The car is in the shop now and I hope to change to different car. I cant trust this one.

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  Wonderful Car! Love it! - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By CFletcher - November 3 - 3:19 pm

  I have had this car for almost a year and wouldnt trade it for anything. I love the heated seats and the gas mileage, 28.8 miles per gallon in the city. The one touch sunroof is great and the Audiophile sounds system really has a good kick to it.

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  Its a Ford BABY - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By LuvMyFord - November 2 - 7:23 pm

  I went from a 2009 Camry Hybrid to this one. The Sport handles on Rails, Gets up and goes, and comfort is top notch. Bluetooth works much better than Toyotas, I can actually have a conversation. Sync is Awesome, the Sony system rocks. The styling is great, quality of the fit and finish great. I am glad to finally have a Ford I like again, havent had a Ford Car that I liked since my 1992 Crown Vic. I still own a 1999 F350 Crew Cab Lariat Dully Diesel that I love, but just too much vehicle to be a daily driver. The Sport fits the bill perfectly as a Family sedan and fun car at the same time.

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  Still going strong - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By Iceman - November 2 - 11:36 am

  I recently put in a 90 mile trip for work each way. I put the cruise on 68mph and got in the granny lane. I achieved 31 miles per gallon over that 90 mile stretch. Thats including hills. This car is fantastic. Forget a hybrid if you drive for fuel economy you dont necessarily have to buy an economy car. This car is roomy, durable, inexpensive to own and sporty. My local dealer (didnt even buy the car from them) has been great on service. This is my first new Ford but I couldnt have had a better experience. Have you driven a Ford lately. And my car before this was a Honda and yes this is a better car. 22,000 miles in 6 month.