Vehicle Profile: 2013 Ford Fusion Family

Vehicle Profile: 2013 Ford Fusion Family
(article via our monthly newsletter)

Benchmarking the family sedan

The Ford Fusion was an instant hit when it first hit dealer lots in 2006. Winning multiple awards and accolades from nearly every major player in the industry, the Fusion became the family sedan to beat. Six years later, Ford has revealed the all-new second generation Ford Fusion, and it is better than ever.

The all-new 2013 Ford Fusion (MSRP $21,700) sports a sleek profile, aggressive front fascia and strongly sculpted lines. This is a far cry from the traditionally conservative styling of large-volume sedans from the competition. There are three all-new Fusion models: Fusion, Fusion Hybrid and Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid. This new collection of Fusion cars, which furthers the Ford goal of building the most fuel-efficient cars in the segment, has already begun to garner accolades and “Car of the Year” awards from groups like AOL Autos and Autobytel.

Fusion

The Ford Fusion sedan is available in S, SE and Titanium trims levels, each featuring an impressive collection of standard and available features. Three engine choices are available:  a 2.5-liter Duratec^® inline four-cylinder that produces 175 hp and 175 lb/ft of torque; a 1.6-liter EcoBoost^® inline four-cylinder that puts out 178 hp and 184 lb/ft of torque; and a 2.0-liter EcoBoost^® inline-four that cranks out 240 hp and 270 lb/ft of torque.

With the 2.5-liter comes a six-speed SelectShift Automatic^™ transmission that features a thumb shifter. This powertrain returns EPA-estimated fuel economy of 22 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. The 1.6-liter EcoBoost^® is available with a six-speed manual transmission and the six-speed automatic; with the automatic, you are treated to an Automatic Start-Stop system that helps to boost fuel economy to 24 mpg city and 37 mpg highway mpg. That makes the Fusion one of the most fuel efficient midsize cars available. Even the 2.0-liter EcoBoost^®, despite its V6-like hp and torque numbers, delivers an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city and 33 mpg highway.

Fusion Hybrid

The Ford Fusion Hybrid represents the next step forward for hybrid buyers. For 2013, Ford has downsized the Atkinson-cycle inline four-cylinder engine to 2.0-liters while maintaining the same stellar performance characteristics, including 188 total hp. This new Fusion Hybrid returns best-in-class fuel economy EPA-estimated at 47 mpg for both city and highway driving, and can travel under light acceleration at up to 62 mph solely on electric power. To help keep the car as environmentally conscious as possible, the Fusion Hybrid also comes equipped with special eco-friendly cloth seating.

Fusion Energi

The Fusion Energi is the newest edition to the Fusion family, and it is the most unique. The Energi is a plug-in hybrid, and it aims to be the most fuel efficient midsize car in the world; its expected Miles Per Gallon equivalent (MPGe) rating of more than 100 bests the Chevy Volt. The Energi features a large lithium-ion battery pack that can be charged from any 120-volt outlet, with compatibility for a 240-volt quick charger. When you run out of electric power, the four-cylinder engine roars to life and the Fusion becomes a traditional gas/eclectic design. The Energi also features a Regenerative Braking System to help recuperate energy lost when using the brakes.

All Fusion models come packed with the latest safety technology. Body construction using high-strength steel and a full suite of airbags, including dual front-row knee airbags, help keep occupants protected during an accident. Technologies like Adaptive Cruise Control, Active Park Assist, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) and Lane Keeping System help prevent collisions from happening, providing an even greater level of safety.

When naming the all-new Ford Fusion “2013 Best Redesigned Vehicle,” Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com reported, “The newest Fusion is clearly the hottest-looking car in a class of no fewer that 13 entrants,” and “the interior is just a striking. Whatever mix of value, power and fuel efficiency you’re looking for in a midsize sedan, the new Fusion has it.” Come experience the new midsize sedan benchmark for yourself today.