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: Ford’s midsize sedan is significantly refreshed for 2017, gaining updated exterior styling, a performance-oriented Sport model, and a top-line Platinum trim level. The 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. The 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 models return with revised software and a more efficient electric motor; both are powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and electric motor with a combined output of 188 horsepower. EPA estimates for both Hybrid and Energi are 43 mpg city and 41 highway; the Energi is EPA-estimated to travel 19 miles on electric power alone and get a combined 97 MPGe. New technology features include pedestrian detection and hands-free perpendicular and parallel parking. Ford’s Sync3 multimedia system, which is newly available in most Fusion models, replaces the finicky MyFord Touch setup. All Fusions now 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 new Fusion Sport model, which delivers real driving excitement while giving up little in everyday practicality.
Class | midsize car |
Body Style(s) | 4-door sedan |
Passenger Count | 5 |
Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
Manufacturer | Ford |
Nation of Manufacture | Mexico |
Base Prices | S: $22,610 2WD SE: $23,610 AWD SE: $27,405 2WD Titanium: $30,610 AWD Titanium: $32,610 AWD Sport: $33,475 Platinum: $36,620 AWD Platinum: $38,620 Hybrid S: $25,675 Hybrid SE: $26,480 Hybrid Titanium: $31,010 Hybrid Platinum: $37,020 Energi SE Luxury: $33,120 Energi Titanium: $34,120 Energi Platinum: $41,120 |
Base Engine 2.5-liter 4-cylinder |
Horsepower 175 |
Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
Avail. Transmission NA |
EPA City Range (mpg) 21 |
EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 32 |
Optional Engine turbocharged 1.5-liter 4-cylinder |
Horsepower 181 |
Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
Avail. Transmission NA |
EPA City Range (mpg) 23 |
EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 34 |
Optional Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
Horsepower 245 |
Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
Avail. Transmission NA |
EPA City Range (mpg) 20-21 |
EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 29-31 |
Optional Engine turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 |
Horsepower 325 |
Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
Avail. Transmission NA |
EPA City Range (mpg) 17 |
EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 26 |