2018 Ford Fusion

Pros: Broad range of powertrains and trim choices, including well-designed Hybrid and Energi plug-in-hybrid models; one of the quieter cars in the class; crisp-for-the-class handling; invigorating performance of new Sport model

Cons: Top-line trim levels are expensive; swoopy styling intrudes a bit on rear visibility

CG Says: After last year’s refresh, the 2018 Ford Fusion is unchanged. Sport and Platinum are the top trim levels. Sport comes standard with all-wheel drive and an adaptive suspension system with pothole-detection technology; it’s powered by a 325-horsepower turbocharged 2.7-liter V6. Platinum is fully loaded with luxury features, including a leather interior with cowhide trim extended to the dash and door panels. Hybrid and plug-in hybrid Energi are powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and electric motor with a combined output of 188 horsepower. EPA estimates for Hybrid are 43 mpg city and 41 highway. Energi is EPA-estimated to travel 19 miles on electric power alone and get a combined 97 MPGe or a combined 42 on gasoline. Technology features include pedestrian detection and hands-free perpendicular and parallel parking. Ford’s Sync3 multimedia system, which is available in most 2018 Ford Fusion models, replaced the finicky MyFord Touch setup. All Fusions have push-button starting, and a rotary dial gear-shift knob that replaces a traditional shift lever. The basic Fusion platform debuted as a 2013 model, and the extensive updates for 2017 help keep it competitive against a strong class of midsize-sedan rivals. We’re especially fond of the gutsy Fusion Sport model, which delivers real driving excitement while giving up little in everyday practicality.