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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  First hybrid - 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By dalesky - March 20 - 11:12 pm

  I am a recent buyer, having had the car for just a few weeks. So far, absolutely nothing about this car disappoints. Mileage is over 40 in town driving, and comfort is amazing. The seats are probably the most supportive in this category, and the handling is certainly the most crisp and confidence inspiring. Handles like nothing else in this class.

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  BEST CAR EVER!! - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By amerck245 - March 1 - 10:00 am

  Bought this car in August 09 and it was the best decision Ive ever made. This car is amazing. It is so technologically advanced that it is a total surprise it was made by Ford. Ive owned a 2005 BMW 525i and my wife drives a 2008 Acura TL and this car beats them both, hands down. The ride is so smooth and in my opinion it feels like its gliding over the road. The look and feel inside and out is of a luxury car that costs 15K to 20K more. Everywhere I go people ask me questions and most of them always say the same thing: "Ford makes this?" And not to mention the fuel savings! I commute 100 miles to work each day, and went from filling up 3 times a week to 1.

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  Amazing Car! - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Jonny - February 20 - 10:00 am

  I LOVE this car! I was looking at a Hybrid and I was thinking about a Prius but they are too small and I didnt like the futuristic interior. I would highly recommend the leather seats and, my favorite, the 8" navigation screen. Sync is fantastic voice recognition for directions, phone calls, finding places of interest, etc. Overall, a great experience that is worth every penny!

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  Very Impressed - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Sergio - February 6 - 3:16 pm

  My wife and I have had the car for about a month and half. No problems whatsoever. Car drives smooth and extremely quite. I honestly feel like Im in a luxury car. We are very impressed w/what Ford has come out with. This is our first American car and we are very happy w/the decision we made. I really hope Ford builds on this generation of technology. We drove the Honda Insight imagine the handles like that of a beat up shopping cart at the market. You pay for what you get. Prius was nice and all but looks like a bad laboratory accident. I will say this MPG on 2010 Prius is better but it’s not a sedan. The Fusion Hybrid looks like a normal car. Congratz Ford on a job well done.

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  Its a great Ford - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Mike - February 6 - 8:16 am

  My first Ford in 40 years of buying cars. I am getting 34 MPG on short trips of 3 miles or less. 44 MPG on local trips on roads with 25-55MPH speed limits. Performance is surprisingly good with no problems merging etc. Interior is very comfortable and convenient. Leather heated power adjustable seats are worth the added cost. Voice activated navigation with back up camera (should be standard like air bags on all cars for safety) and screen display features is worth the money as well. Car suspension and handling makes driving enjoyable and close to sporty. These Hybrids are eligible for a 1700 federal tax credit too.

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  Not living up to the hype. - 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By kzooguy1981 - January 29 - 9:16 am

  I had this vehicle on order since early August and finally picked it up on November 30. Next time, I would rather buy from the lot than go through the hassle of waiting for delivery. The main reason for purchasing the vehicle was the EPA estimated MPG. After nearly 11,000 miles on the vehicle I am struggling to get above 37MPG for a lifetime average. Most of my driving is on the freeway and 95% of that time I have the cruise set at 62MPH so that the battery will engage. I have heard that the temperature and the fuel blend can make a difference but my experience so far has been frustrating. Driving in town at speeds under 45 MPH can certainly attain 47MPG.