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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  Green title - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Oscar - February 25 - 4:18 pm

  Leather seats, new tires 107600 miles. excellent condition

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  Not impressed - 2015 Ford Fusion
  By Joe - January 3 - 11:23 am

  I have a 2015 1.5 ecoboost fusion. I bought it for around 26,000 dollars in feburary 2015. 6 months later the car is only books for 17000. Holds no resale value at all. Infotainment system sucks. Heat is very cantankerous. Roasting one minute and freezing the next and if you are over 6ft do not buy this car. I am 64 and I cant sit up straight in the driver seat. I have to slouch to not bump my head on the head liner.

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  Oh My Aching Back! - 2012 Ford Fusion
  By shawn - December 22 - 10:37 pm

  I purchased this car in early 2014. When I first had it, I fell in love with the Sirius radio (I actually used a plug and play radio for years until this one), and I had a Focus for four years prior. I thought this car would be an upgrade, but it has turned out to be the bane of my existence. Keep in mind, I dont have an ax to grind with Ford, as Ive had an Escort before the Focus. I guess Ive learned that I probably need a smaller car, however, it is more than that. Ive had more issues with back pain than ever before, and I dont think this car has helped. Ive tried to move the seat in every position, and still pain. Ive also noticed than when I dont drive it for periods of time the pain begins to subside. Lately Ive noticed that the visibility while driving is not good either too many impediments, like the rear view mirror and the windscreen side posts (probably due to my incessant seat position moves). The only thing that I can say positive about the car is the MPG-its pretty good for a car this size. Its too bad Ford had to squash it down so low to get this MPG. The seat seems to dip too low in the back, which creates no lumbar support and a heavy strain on the lower back in general. Now, I will say that I do use my lower back quite a lot, but Ive come to the conclusion that the car does not help, as Ive ridden in other cars that feel like heaven. My only advice is to people over five foot five, and that would be to never buy a Fusion. I hope i can sell mine cause I have seen several on the lots lately. Hmmm, wonder why? Good luck fixing this thing Ford!

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  Fantastically Fusion - 2015 Ford Fusion
  By Braeden Pinquertyn - December 20 - 10:29 am

  Well, I got the car as an early birthday/ Christmas gift... GORGEOUS CAR! The 2.0 liter ecoboost engine is so much for the rather small displacement, which leads me to the bad part... I am literally getting 17.8 mpg in city and 26 mpg on the highway going 67 mph, when the EPA says it should get 21 mpg city and 31 highway... My former 2009 Camry with a 2.5 liter I-4 and 5 spd automatic got much better fule economy... Highly disappointed in that regard... But the style and the build quality is basically that of my fathers Infiniti G37 (which is a luxury sports sedan)! It is truly impeccable! The continental tires are quiet and have fantastic grip! It truly is an ambiguous car when it comes to the drive characteristics, it can be a calm, compliant riding car when needed and a sporty, agile half back when needed! Truly a good car!

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  2013 Fusion SE 1.6L Turbo ecoboost - 2013 Ford Fusion
  By Jim - December 15 - 11:49 pm

  Overall happy with the car. Pros: Drives well, roomy, solid no rattles, ok fuel mileage, good visibility, creature comforts ok. Cons: Recalls that take multiple days with no loaner vehicle, Rear brake rotors and pads need to be replaced at 34K miles and dealer says not covered under warranty (normal wear) Front arent too far behind. Every other vehicle Ive owned (6) have gotten 60k miles before replacing brakes. Chalk it up to Ford using inferior parts. Not a fan of the transmission, Not smooth and mostly due to the fact that youll be coasting downhill and then all of a sudden the tranny shifts down to where the engine is revving 3k rpm. Feel like Im in a big rig yanking on the jake brake. Real eventful driving in the snow when you need to slowdown and the engine is revving off the charts. Many times I throw it into neutral for better control or to simply glide better for efficiency when not in weather. I came from an accord and have to say Ill probably go back when the time comes which is a shame as I prefer to purchase USA. Mildly irritating yet tolerable.

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  "THE DARKSIDE" - 2014 Ford Fusion
  By Roy JENNINGS - December 10 - 4:17 pm

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  RECALL - 2012 Ford Fusion
  By Angie Clark - December 10 - 2:16 pm

  I love my car but it kept cutting off for no reason....Come to find out it was a recall on my Throttle bottle...Took it back to dealership..Replace for free..Speedy service...i love it. Angie in Spring Texas

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  A piece of crap - 2015 Ford Fusion
  By CRM - November 29 - 9:59 pm

  The electronics of the car is shorty and cheap. Ford will do nothing to rectify the situation. They are liars and act as if they are trying to fix the issues, but they really dont care. Do not buy a Ford from Germain Ford in Dublin Ohio. Anything they cant figure out, they say its normal. I will never buy another Ford again in life. I wouldnt even accept a free one, thats how much I hate Ford.

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  Ford Fusion SE 2015 - 2015 Ford Fusion
  By Owen Baker - November 22 - 5:30 pm

  I bought a 2015 Ford Fusion SE in February and there is a design flaw since 2013 and Ford refuses to fix their heated seats that go on whenever they want to. Ford issued a bulletin in April of 2015 telling their dealers No REPAIRS TO BE PERFORMED. They refuse to fix a problem that they caused. I think the Government Safety Board should get involved. Boycott Ford. They dont even return some phone calls. Do not buy your car from Vista Ford in Woodland Hills, as they do not help you with Ford.

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  Looks nice but poor execution. - 2014 Ford Fusion
  By CM - November 17 - 9:33 pm

  So, I have had my 2014 2.0 AWD Fusion for a little over a year now. I purchased it as a highway crusier for work and because of the advertised fuel economy. I also rent quite a few cars as well for work to balance out the mileage but still managed to put 24k miles on my car in 1 year. What I like: The car is very comfortable and quite to drive over long distances. My favorite part would be the front seats. I like how they are contoured and support my back while driving. The car is also very quiet while driving. The stereo is also sounds quite nice. The trunk in the car is huge and I have been able to haul all kinds of stuff that I have not been able to put in my car before. Also, the backup camera/sensors are quite nice and convienient. What I do not like: MPG: The MPG is no where near what Ford claims. I mentioned earlier that I rent quite a few cars for work and I almost always hit the EPA rated highway mileage or I am close to it. With the Fusion (EPA rated 31 MPG) I am lucky to hit 28 MPG on the highway, 25-26 is typical and I have even seen as low as 22 MPG. Needless to say I am very disappointed. I have even tried overinflating the tires by a few PSI to see if that helps to no avail. Premium gas also does not make a difference. Transmission: The transmission is probably the worst that I have driven. The common hard shift between 2nd and 3rd is almost always present and the dealer said this is all operating within specification according to their computer (I saw this with my own eyes while driving with the technician). Now, if I put the car into sport mode and let the car shift on its own it feels like a rookie manual transmission driver. It constantly jerks while down-shifting and up-shifting. This also raises concerns with long term transmission reliability as the shocks to the transmission cannot be good in the long term. HVAC: The automatic HVAC controls just pain do not work well, especially in the months where heat is required. What happens is that after car warms up and the cabin temperature it starts blowing cold air. Now, why would anyone want that? Also, the fan controls do not go to a low enough setting when controlled manually. Tires: Not a problem with the car but Ford put poor tires on the car for snow traction. Engine: Like other reviews of the 2.0 Fusion, the car seems underpowered for the engine rating. Windows: It is not possible to just put the drivers window down on its own and drive. If this is done there is a horrible buffeting (this might not be the best term to describe this) that happens inside the cabin. The manual even calls this out and the solution is to open another window. This just shows poor engineering on Fords part. Sync: This is not so much an issue with Sync but more so with any car with touch controls and not real buttons. The controls do not have a place in a car. Tactile buttons will always work better. You can reach over and feel your way around and find the control without hitting 5 other things at the same time. The same goes for touch screens. It forces you to be very precise and that means more time with eyes not on the road. I know there are the steering wheel controls and the arrow buttons are not responsive enough and it still means time with eyes not on the road to follow the screen by the speedometer. I will avoid any vehicle with touch controls in the future. Visibility: The A and C pillars are quite large and do hamper visibility. More than most other cars that I have driven. The rear view mirror also does not adjust enough for my liking. I just cannot tilt it high enough for my liking and I have the drivers seat in its lowest possition. Final thoughts: I would not buy a Fusion again. I am not going to sell it as it does not make financial sense but I am not going to buy another.