Overview

The Ford Fusion is a mid-size sedan that was first introduced for the 2006 model year. Now in its second-generation and last redesigned for 2010, the Fusion shares its platform with the Mazda6 sedan. For the 2011 model year, there are minor equipment upgrades, and a manual shift feature has been added to the automatic transmission.

The Fusion is offered in five basic trim levels: S, SE, SEL, Sport, and Hybrid. Standard equipment includes cloth upholstery, air conditioning, keyless entry, cruise control, 16-inch alloy wheels, and more. Upgrade to the SE trim and the Fusion receives automatic headlamps, fog lamps, dual exhaust pipes, 17-inch steel wheels with full covers, and other equipment. The SEL model adds dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, leather upholstery, and more. The Sport trim, which is tuned for the driving enthusiast, includes sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels, and the choice of several option packages.

The Ford Fusion is offered with three engine choices. The standard powerplant is a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine that is rated at 175 horsepower and mated to a six-speed manual, or an optional six-speed automatic transmission. The optional (gasoline engine), which is available only with the automatic transmission, is a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine that generates 240 horsepower. In terms of fuel economy, the most efficient engine is found under the hood of the Fusion Hybrid. That model features a 2.4-liter engine and an electric motor for a combined system power of 156 horsepower. Fusion models are offered in front- and all-wheel drive. The EPA rates the fuel economy of the 2011 Ford Fusion between 17 mpg city and 36 mpg highway, depending on powertrain.

The 2011 Ford Fusion S starts with a base price of about $20,500 and tops out with the Fusion Hybrid, which starts around $29,000.