Overview & Reviews

For the most part, the pickings in the midsize hybrid sedan segment are fairly mundane. One exception is the Ford Fusion Hybrid, a sedan that offers better fuel economy than its main competitors while also being more enjoyable to drive.

Though driving enjoyment typically isn't high on the list of a hybrid buyer's list of priorities, the Fusion Hybrid delivers an unusually lively experience behind the wheel. If you're shopping for a new or used hybrid-powered sedan, this Ford should definitely be near the top of your list. Its unusual combination of solid driving dynamics and superior fuel economy, along with its good looks, comfortable ride and accommodating interior, makes it easy to recommend.

Current Ford Fusion Hybrid
The Ford Fusion Hybrid is a midsize four-door sedan that's available in three trim levels: S, SE and Titanium. There is also the plug-in, extended-range version, called the Fusion Energi, which is reviewed separately.

The hybrid powertrain consists of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine working in concert with an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack. All told, there's 188 horsepower on tap along with impressive EPA fuel economy estimates of 47 mpg in all three cycles: city, highway and combined.

Standard equipment highlights on the S include 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, the voice-activated Sync audio/cell phone interface and a sound system with a CD player and USB/iPod interface. The SE adds a keyless entry keypad, a power driver seat, a rear seat center armrest, satellite radio and numerous options. The Titanium's highlights include 18-inch alloy wheels, remote start, keyless ignition and entry, leather upholstery, heated front sport seats, a power passenger seat, the MyFord Touch electronics interface (with configurable gauge displays), a rearview camera and an upgraded audio system. Key options include a navigation system, adaptive cruise control, automated parking assist and blind-spot detection.

In reviews, this Fusion Hybrid impressed us with its athletic handling and communicative steering that provides a more engaging driving experience than you'd expect from a fuel sipper. At the same time, the ride is supple over bumps and ruts, the cabin is supremely quiet and Ford has made strides in making braking effort seem more natural: a previous complaint with the Fusion and indeed many hybrids. And while the trunk is compromised by the presence of its battery pack, the remaining space is more useful than that of rival hybrid sedans. If there is a primary drawback, it's that Ford's electronic interfaces are less unintuitive than other systems.

Used Ford Fusion Hybrid Models
The current, second-generation Ford Fusion Hybrid was introduced for 2013. All told, Ford managed to take all the attributes of the previous Fusion Hybrid -- notably, excellent fuel economy, sharp styling, sporty handling, a smooth ride and plenty of handy features – and bolster it with more dramatic exterior styling, improved driving dynamics and the latest in electronics and features. These Fusion Hybrids are identical to the latest version with a few minor exceptions. Specifically, they lack the availability of the S trim level, inflatable rear seatbelts, a heated steering wheel and ventilated front seats.

The first-generation Ford Fusion Hybrid debuted for the 2010 model year and ran through 2012. It was a midsize sedan that employed a 2.5-liter inline-4 gasoline engine paired with an electric motor and a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack to produce 191 hp. The power was sent to the front wheels through a CVT. Along with a fuel mileage estimate of 39 mpg in combined driving, this Fusion Hybrid had the ability under low load conditions to propel itself to nearly 50 mph on battery power alone.

The handsome cabin sported quality materials and a wealth of standard features. The latter included 17-inch alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, the MyKey system (limits top speed and audio volume), a keyless-entry security code pad, automatic headlamps, dual-zone automatic climate control, power front seats and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. There was also the Sync electronics interface (includes voice commands, Bluetooth and iPod control) and a six-speaker sound system with CD/MP3 player, satellite radio and steering-wheel controls. Options included a rearview camera, a premium audio system, a sunroof and a navigation system with Sirius Travel Link.

In reviews, we were pleasantly surprised by the Ford Fusion Hybrid's well-sorted chassis. It's not a sport sedan, but it is sportier than you'd expect a hybrid sedan to be. Granted, you'll get even better mileage out of cars like the smaller Honda Insight and ubiquitous Toyota Prius. But when you compare apples to apples, the first-generation Ford Fusion Hybrid is an excellent choice for a used hybrid family sedan.

User Reviews:

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  Outstanding - 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By jena2000 - January 31 - 5:48 am

  I just purchased the 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid. I picked the car up in Toledo, Ohio and immediately left for Knoxville, Tennessee. The trip was 450 miles. I drove between 65 and 70 the whole trip. I used cruise control whenever I could and did not hesitate to use the gas pedal when I needed. On this initial trip, I used a little more than 9 ½ gallons of gas for a little over 45 MPG. The next day, I traveled from Knoxville to my home in North Carolina. This trip was about half highway and half two lane mountain roads. On this trip, I got an average of 44.5 MPG. This Ford Fusion Hybrid EPA mileage is achievable. I have not altered my driving patterns and I tend to have a heavy foot. Before purchasing this car, I had search for about 2 months and drove many different models from many different car manufacturer. This is by far the best driving car for the money. Very smooth and comfortable. Road noise is minimal. Base model comes with several nice features. And now with the mileage I am getting, I could not be more pleased.

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  Excellent car - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By bobsorel - January 20 - 1:46 am

  I thought that Id never buy another American car, as the build quality has been lacking. I wanted to take advantage of the clunkers program, but waited until the last weekend to make up my mind. I was pretty sure that wed like the Prius as several friends love theirs. When we arrived at two Toyota dealers the lots were cleaned out and no Priuses anywhere in 100 miles. No Civic hybrids either. Id read great reviews on the Fusion so decided to check it out. I was immediately impressed. This is a GREAT car. Terrific build quality, very solid and stable. Average 38.5 mpg even with a 10 mi. climb to our home. A 49.9 mi. trip on cruise at 72 mph gave 48.9 mpg. Were happy that we bought it.

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  Fusion hybrid support - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By kinetics - January 11 - 10:26 am

  On 4/5, after about 500 miles, vehicle just stopped in traffic with all error lights lit. Towed to dealer. on 4/6 dealer notifed me that it needed a new processor but Ford "could not find one". On 4/11 the dealer installed processor but all error lights remain lit. On 4/13 dealer was "in contact with Ford Enginneering and working on the problem". This is not the way to introduce a new vehicle. I wonder when I will get a Fusion that runs!

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  Crappy MPG - 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By fugitive54 - January 10 - 6:27 am

  Averaged 33 MPG through first 5K miles. I have driven as efficiently as possible, achieving perfect acceleration, braking and cruising scores. There have also been several recalls and the car has only been out for 8 months. Loved the car overall, but felt duped by Ford. I just WON a Lemon Law case on this car and am turning in the car for a full refund. There is also a Class Action lawsuit out there for MPG fraud for those who continue to act like this is not a real problem.

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  Ford employees told yo help out on mpg - 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By truthnow11 - December 21 - 7:11 pm

  I know people who work at Ford, their sales department pushed the engineers to deliver dishonest numbers, that is why 47/47mpg is basically not attainable by anyone, even chief engineer John D. cant get it with John V. at his side. Soon the fueleconomy.gov site will be flooded with people who claim 45-49 mpg, these are employees of Ford Motor company. When I was driving, I try to keep the speed low to maximize electric range and I rarely drive on Interstate, and I was teased by other people for driving like an old lady! Overall mpg is 38.3 mpg, not bad, but I still feel defrauded because I expect 42-45 mpg. :-(

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  Very cheaply made vehicle that costs way too much - 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By SoCalCASK - December 3 - 1:06 pm

  I have had this car for 2 years. I drive the car 120 miles a day in Los Angeles Traffic being the vehicle 4 hours a day, I know and understand this vehicle...stay far far away!!! The interior and exterior of this vehicle is the cheapest that money can buy with a luxury price tag. The technology in this car is about 10 years behind the times. The Bluetooth works about 20% of the time which is awful since I drive 4 hours a day and rely on Bluetooth for basic functionality. I need Bluetooth to be able to take care of any client calls and I also rely on this for my podcasts. I am in the car 4 hours and am stuck without any Bluetooth, it is truly like having a car in the 90s again. DO NOT BUY THIS CAR, it is overpriced and Ford should be ashamed. This car cost more than my luxury vehicle and it drives, rides, and is like the cheapest car I have ever purchased. I am paying a premium for what I consider a car not worthy of the cheapest vehicle on the road. Issues - No Bluetooth - If Bluetooth does work the caller hears the phone ringing several times inside the vehicle before you connect, this is extremely unprofessional and most of the time callers get confused and hang up - The trunk materials fell apart quickly and the trunk doesnt close. I purchased the extended warranty so I took this in thinking this is a basic fix they should cover, NO, they wanted me to pay for their CHEAP materials used that do not allow the trunk to close. No thank you, I cant put any additional money into this piece of **** - When you take the car in under your prepaid service plan the dealership puts you to the back of the line so you have to wait for any basic service well in excess of anyone else. I work long hard hours, I dont have an extra 2 hours to spend at a dealership. In addition, they refuse to wash the vehicle. Basically the dealership even treats this car like its a POS cheap car - 4 recalls on the vehicle thus far. Again, I dont have time to deal with Fords issues This is the worst purchase I have made in my entire life. Do not make the same mistake that I did. Cheaply made car at a premium price

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  Not up to 700 mi per tank - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Richard A. - November 22 - 3:06 pm

  I like the ride of the car, its very comfortable. Im 63 and have plenty of room. I think the commercial touting "up to 700" per tank is hype. Ive never approached that, and I drive like a grandpa according to my friends. My city driving usually averages in the 38mpg for a high. In very cold weather it went down significantly.

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  Great Car with a Great Value - 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By mattgoofy - November 15 - 7:04 pm

  I special ordered the car with all the options except for Radar Cruise Control and Lane Change Notification. The car is fantastic. The ride is comfortable and with little road noise. At this point I am averaging about 39MPG. But considering my old car got 18MPG I am very happy with the millage. The most difficult feature in the car is the Ford Sync system. There are a lot of commands and not all of the features in the system are very user friendly. Although I have only be toying with it for 1 week. The car has good performance considering it was built for comfort and fuel efficiency. Styling is great and the interior works very well. This is a great product to own. Well done Ford.

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  Scarily Unreliable - 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By bcastro1207 - November 12 - 5:08 pm

  Ordered the car in October. Finally delivered December 26. The first night, half the dash panel did not light up. Took it to the dealer - it was a "fuse". Three days later, same half of the dash panel didnt light up again. It came back on the next day. Four days after that, the blind spot sensors stopped working and the warning light came on. Took it to the dealer - they had to order the sensor. Its on back order and is still not fixed. Got the car back. The next day, started the car and smoke filled the cabin as well as the smell of burning electrical wires. Dealer - the wires going to the visor light shorted and burned. Plus, got only 34.5 mpg. Bottom line: DONT BUY.

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  My First American Car in 12 years. - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Georgia Jim - November 2 - 4:10 am

  For years I have said that if the US Big 3 could just make a world class hybrid, I would buy it. Based on Edmunds and some other sources, I pre- ordered this before they were released. For me that was a big gamble. I think it paid off well. The car is well built, engaging and fun to drive. Despite the battery packs, there is enough trunk room for my wife, 17 year old son and I to have taken a trip to Disney World and felt like we had plenty of room even with our baggage. Im using the electronic dash to help teach my boy not to lead-foot the gas pedal, which is a totally unexpected side benefit..