Reviewed by Susan Frissell
The first thing one notices about the 2013 midsize Ford Fusion is its frontend: a grille that resembles an Aston Martin. Expressive and impressive: A much different looking car than its predecessor. Available in three trim levels (S, SE and Tintanium), Fusion has three available engines: 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder with six-speed automatic, a turbo 2.0-liter EcoBoost 4-cylinder with six-speed automatic or 1.6-liter EcoBoost with six-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission.
Our test Fusion came equipped with the 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder EcoBoost that offered plenty of power and turbo feel. In fact, one had to be careful not to give herself a whiplash when accelerating. Brakes were very touchy also; barely a tap and the Fusion jerked (panic brake assist). That took some getting used to.
Extensively redesigned for 2013, the Fusion midsize sedan is a handsome vehicle. Resembling what now seems to be the benchmark Korean sedans, Fusion has come into its own. Easy to see how this sedan has become a favorite of many consumers today, bringing Ford back into the fay, no doubt. Safety features abound, as with other cars in this class and includes AdvanceTrac electronic stability control, traction control, LED taillights, security system and eight airbags, and tire pressure monitoring system.
A five-passenger sedan, Fusion sports a front-wheel-drive configuration as standard and all-wheel-drive as an option. A wide range of powertrains are available in the Fusion to suit your fancy: gasoline, hbrid and plug-in hybrid. Replacing the previous 6-cylinder engine are several 4-cylinder choices. Not to fear, though, as these are powerful enough (if not more) engines to pass any test. The standard 2.5-liter, four is rated at 175 horsepower.
Available for 2013 are two new engines: a much more efficient turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder EcoBoost (178 hp.) and a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder (240hp., 270-lb.ft. torque). The 2.0-liter undoubtedly delivers the best acceleration performance, and because the engines are smaller, fuel economy doesn’t suffer. Ford also incorporates the electric-assist power steering and (optional) automatic Start/Stop feature, teamed with the 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine.
SPECS
MSRP: $32,200; total vehicle price $37,670; destination $795
Engine: 2.0-liter I4, GTDI,
Transmission: 6-speed automatic, SelectShift with paddle shifters
Wheelbase: 112.2 in.
Height: 58.1 in.
Length: 191.7 in.
Width: 72.9 in.
Fuel tank capacity: 17.5 gal (capless filler)
EPA fuel economy: 25/31 mpg.
Wheels: 18-inch aluminum
Warranty: 3 yrs./36,000 bumper/bumper; 5 yrs./60,000 powertrain; 5 yrs.,/60,000 roadside assistance
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