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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  Ford quality - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Harvey - February 7 - 11:13 pm

  I love this car. Everyone wants good gas milage, but the Fusion Hybrid brings so much more to the table. If you want a hybrid look no further. I tested the competitors models and this was the best choice. It is a quality ride. If you put a BMW badge on it it would sell for $10,000 more and youd never notice it was a Ford. Well done!

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  Luv my hybrid - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By farmer - January 16 - 8:36 am

  We just returned from a 6600 mile trip to the East coat. The car was dream to drive, performance was great. We averaged 37.3 MPG round trip. We drove 75-85 MPH, we didnt expect great mileage as the car was heavily loaded with luggage and junk. We traded a Cadillac in to purchase this car, my wife reminds me that this "does not ride like a Cadillac. Overall we are very satisfied with the car. I made a contract with my wife: Drive the car for 6 months and if she is hot happy then go buy the Cadillac CTS. I think she will keep the Ford.

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  Just Go Get One! - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By One Happy Buyer - January 15 - 5:13 am

  Have owned the car for 30 days, having traded a 2008 Civic Hybrid. Must say this is an amazing change for the good. Ride, room, handling, amenities, everything about it is a big plus over the Civic we really loved. Cant say enough good about my experience so far!

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  Nice, fairly quiet, comfortable, but just pretty good MPGs - 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By kkuhns - December 28 - 3:51 am

  I knew that there was no way that this car would really average 47 MPG overall, so I had already adjusted my expectations down to think I might get 37 - 40 MPG overall, and I was OK with that. After the first 1000 miles, Im getting about 37 overall, which is OK, but I want and expect it will get better. At least I hope so. I got the appearance package with 18" tires, so that may have a slightly worse impact on MPG, compared to the standard 17" Low Rolling Resistance tires. Not sure how much difference that makes, but presumably a little. Overall, I really like the car. I sold my 2013 Honda Accord to get one and I definitely think it was worth it.

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  Everything I hoped for. - 2014 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By idandfei - December 26 - 12:12 pm

  Ive wanted a Fusion since 2013 when the new body style was released. I bought the Titanium and got every option because I hate blank button faces in cars. This is the first new car Ive ever owned and Ive always hated the blank buttons in all the used cars I owned. I dont believe in global warming and nobody should have to believe in it when buying a Fusion hybrid. Its 2000 dollars extra for the hybrid model and will save you that much in gas costs in the first few years. If you believe in saving money, theres no harm in accidentally pleasing a few hippies.

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  junk - 2014 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Rose - November 15 - 1:47 am

  Only 25k on my vehicle and I continuously have issues with the car not starting/no power. Go to unlock my car, alarm not working; Manually unlock my car. Turn the key in the ignition, nothing. No power. I would not recommend this vehicle to my worst enemy.

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  2014 Ford Fusion SE hybrid - 2014 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By K - November 10 - 4:11 am

  I loved my fusion. I only put Okay for "getting in or out" because I am taller but I eventually got used to it. This was the best car Ive driven. Ive driven chevys and Ive gotta say, the seats in Chevys are awful and overall dont like them. Recently my brother and I were in an accident in my fusion the windshield had a gaping hole in front of the drivers seat and the roof had a pretty sizeable dent, the dash had tears from the glass and deer, and the quarter panel had damage along with the little triangle window was busted out. It was totaled due to the cost of repairs to the roof, dash, and quarter panel. The car being totaled was in no way anyones fault it was dark and the deer came out from behind a car. I am so glad we were in a fusion instead of something less reliable. Im hoping to get another Fusion as soon as possible.

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  Fraud on gas mileage - 2014 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By cindyropp - November 9 - 12:43 am

  I returned my car after driving for a week it got 39 at best, went around and around with ford and after finding out that consumer reports and studies were coming out saying the gas mileage was grossly over exaggerated, they finally agreed to unwind the deal it was getting 29 highway and 38 to 39 city. if you drove like an old person and never quickly accelerated, put the air on, or went up a hill it might get a little better

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  2014 Hybrid SE Review - 2014 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Geno Gomez III - October 26 - 7:09 am

  Make sure to view and add your phone to the car. Most newer car systems have a very easy to use system and can stream Pandora. This car, while technically can pair, is only for calls. Not significant in the grand scheme of things, but if you hate wires, it might be something to consider since an aux port is needed to play music of any kind from your phone.

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  Style, Comfort, and Economy - 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By djm33315 - October 7 - 8:32 pm

  After shopping every hybrid on the market, the decision was easy to make - the Ford Fusion Hybrid was the best looking, best driving, most comfortable and most economical vehicle, especially for the price. Some people are writing negative reviews because they cant match EPA rating. I have to assume this is because they dont know how to drive a hybrid. I am averaging approximately 45mpg overall, this has improved from 38mpg on the first fill up. My dad drives a Prius, and if you mash the accelerator on that car, youll also average in the 30mpg range. The build quality, ride comfort, and luxury options make the Fusion Hybrid a one-of-a-kind vehicle.