The Ford Fusion delivers comfort and sporty handling that is even more athletic for 2008 with the addition of a Sport Appearance package. The available all-wheel-drive model provides exceptional handling stability on slippery surfaces. While available power isn't up to the benchmark set by the class leaders, the Fusion is an excellent value.
NewCarTestDrive correspondent John Rettie filed this report from Hollywood, California; with Cheryl Jensen reporting from Cleveland, Ohio; and Mitch McCullough and Kirk Bell reporting from Dearborn, Michigan.
Model Line Overview
Model lineup:
Ford Fusion S ($17,770); SE ($18,695); SEL ($19,400); SE V6 ($21,445); SEL V6 ($22,150); SE V6 AWD ($23,295); SEL V6 AWD ($24,000)
dual-stage front airbags, torso-protecting front side airbags, head-protecting curtain side airbags; tire-pressure monitor; LATCH child-seat anchors; rear-door child-safety locks; ABS
Safety equipment (optional):
traction control, rear obstacle detection
Basic warranty:
3 years/36,000 miles
Assembled in:
Hermosillo, Mexico
Specifications As Tested
Model tested (MSRP):
Ford Fusion SEL V6 ($22,150)
Standard equipment:
cloth upholstery, six-way power driver seat with manual lumbar adjustment, fold flat front-passenger seatback, 60/40 split folding rear seat, leather wrapped tilt/telescoping steering wheel with redundant speed and audio controls, power door locks with remote keyless entry, power windows and mirrors, six-speaker premium AM/FM stereo with single six-disc CD changer and auxiliary input jack, antitheft system, dual illuminated sun visor mirrors, trip computer, automatic headlights, automatic temperature control, analog clock, heated outside mirrors, keyless entry keypad, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, fog lamps, P225/50R17 tires on aluminum wheels
Options as tested (MSRP):
traction control ($95)
Destination charge:
($700)
Gas guzzler tax:
N/A
Price as tested (MSRP):
$22,945
Layout:
front-wheel drive
Engine:
3.0-liter dohc 24-valve V6
Horsepower (hp @ rpm):
221 @ 6250
Torque (lb.-ft. @ rpm):
205 @ 4800
Transmission:
6-speed automatic
EPA fuel economy, city/hwy:
18/26 mpg
Wheelbase:
107.4 in.
Length/width/height:
190.2/72.2/57.2 in.
Track, f/r:
61.6/61.3 in.
Turning circle:
40.0 ft.
Seating capacity:
5
Head/hip/leg room, f:
38.7/54.0/42.3 in.
Head/hip/leg room, m:
N/A
Head/hip/leg room, r:
37.8/56.5/37.5 in.
Cargo volume:
15.8 cu. ft.
Payload:
N/A
Towing capacity:
N/A
Suspension, f:
independent, short and long arm with coil springs, stabilizer bar
Suspension, r:
independent, multi-link with struts, stabilizer bar
Ground clearance:
N/A
Curb weight:
3280 lbs.
Tires:
P225/50VR17
Brakes, f/r:
disc/disc with ABS
Fuel capacity:
17.5 gal.
Unless otherwise indicated, specifications refer to test vehicle.
All prices are manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) effective as of July 31, 2007.
Prices do not include manufacturer's destination and delivery charges.
N/A: Information not available or not applicable.
Manufacturer Info Sources:
800-392-3673 -
www.fordvehicles.com
