Is The Ford Fusion Fun To Drive?

The Ford Fusion, a mid-size sedan that graced American roads from 2006 to 2020, offered a compelling blend of practicality, style, and fuel efficiency. But beyond its sensible attributes, a crucial question lingers for driving enthusiasts: Is the Ford Fusion actually fun to drive? This article delves into the driving dynamics, handling characteristics, and overall driver engagement offered by various Fusion models, helping you determine if this car aligns with your definition of driving enjoyment.

The answer, as with many automotive questions, isn't a simple yes or no. It depends heavily on the specific model year, engine option, and trim level. Some Fusions prioritize comfort and efficiency, while others offer a more engaging and sporty driving experience. Let's explore the nuances to uncover the truth.

Detailed Explanations

Engines:

• 2.5L Inline-4: This engine was the base engine for many years and provided adequate power for everyday driving. It's not particularly exciting, but it's reliable and fuel-efficient.

• 1.5L EcoBoost Inline-4: Found in later models, this turbocharged engine offers a good balance of fuel economy and performance. While not a powerhouse, it provides sufficient power for most drivers and is generally more engaging than the 2.5L.

• 2.0L EcoBoost Inline-4: This engine is a significant step up in performance. It provides strong acceleration and makes the Fusion feel much more responsive and fun to drive. It's a popular choice for those seeking a more spirited driving experience.

• 2.0L Inline-4 Hybrid / 2.5L Inline-4 Hybrid: These engines are paired with an electric motor to provide excellent fuel economy. While they offer decent acceleration around town, they prioritize efficiency over performance and are not particularly exciting to drive.

• 2.7L EcoBoost V6: Found exclusively in the Sport trim, this engine transforms the Fusion into a genuinely quick and fun car. It provides ample power for confident acceleration and makes the Fusion feel like a different beast altogether.

Trim Levels:

• S: The base trim level, offering the most basic features and typically paired with the less powerful engines. Focuses on affordability and practicality.

• SE: A step up from the S trim, adding more features and options. Still primarily focused on value and practicality, but may offer slightly more engaging driving dynamics depending on the engine.

• SEL: (Discontinued after 2012) Similar to the SE, but with even more features and options.

• Titanium: The top-of-the-line trim level, offering all the bells and whistles, including premium materials and advanced technology. Often paired with the more powerful engines, making it a more enjoyable driving experience.

• Sport: Specifically designed for driving enthusiasts, the Sport trim features the powerful 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine, sport-tuned suspension, and unique styling cues. This is the most fun-to-drive Fusion model.

• Platinum: A luxury-focused trim level, offering premium materials and features. May prioritize comfort over outright performance, but still offers a refined driving experience.

• Hybrid S, Hybrid SE, Hybrid Titanium, Energi SE, Energi Titanium: These trim levels are specific to the hybrid and plug-in hybrid models. They prioritize fuel efficiency and eco-friendliness over performance.

Key Driving Characteristics:

• Handling: The Fusion's handling varies depending on the model year and trim level. Later models (2013+) generally have improved handling due to chassis refinements. The Sport trim, with its sport-tuned suspension, offers the most engaging handling experience, with reduced body roll and more precise steering. Base models tend to have softer suspensions that prioritize comfort over sharp handling.

• Acceleration: Acceleration is heavily dependent on the engine. The EcoBoost engines, particularly the 2.0L and 2.7L, provide quicker acceleration than the base 2.5L. Hybrid models prioritize fuel economy over outright speed, resulting in slower acceleration. The 2.7L EcoBoost V6 in the Sport trim delivers impressive acceleration for a mid-size sedan.

• Steering Feel: The Fusion's steering is generally light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in city driving. However, it lacks the direct feedback of a true sports sedan. The Sport trim has a slightly heavier steering feel, providing a bit more connection to the road.

• Ride Comfort: The Fusion generally offers a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps well. This is particularly true for models with the standard suspension. Sport models may have a firmer ride due to their sport-tuned suspension, which can be less forgiving on rough roads.

• Transmission: The Fusion primarily uses automatic transmissions. The 6-speed automatic is reliable and smooth, but not particularly sporty. Hybrid models use an eCVT (electronically controlled continuously variable transmission), which prioritizes efficiency over performance. The 2.0L EcoBoost offered paddle shifters in some models, allowing for a more engaging driving experience.

• Braking: The Fusion's braking performance is generally adequate, with good stopping power. The brakes are responsive and provide sufficient confidence in most driving situations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Ford Fusion a reliable car?

Generally, yes. The Ford Fusion has a good reputation for reliability, particularly models with the 2.5L engine. However, like any car, regular maintenance is crucial.

Which Ford Fusion is the most fun to drive?

The Ford Fusion Sport, with its 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine and sport-tuned suspension, is widely considered the most fun to drive.

Is the Ford Fusion good on gas?

Yes, especially the hybrid models. Even the non-hybrid models with the EcoBoost engines offer decent fuel economy for their class.

Does the Ford Fusion have all-wheel drive?

Yes, all-wheel drive was an available option on some models, particularly those with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine.

How does the Ford Fusion handle in snow?

Models equipped with all-wheel drive perform well in snow. Even front-wheel drive models with winter tires can handle snowy conditions reasonably well.

Conclusion

Whether the Ford Fusion is "fun to drive" is subjective and depends on your personal preferences and driving style. While base models prioritize comfort and fuel efficiency, the Fusion Sport, with its potent engine and sport-tuned suspension, offers a genuinely engaging and enjoyable driving experience. If you're looking for a practical and reliable mid-size sedan with a sporty edge, the Fusion Sport is worth considering. For those prioritizing fuel economy, the hybrid models are a good choice, though they sacrifice some driving excitement. Ultimately, test driving different models and trim levels is the best way to determine if a Ford Fusion suits your definition of fun.