The Ford Fusion is a mid-size four-door sedan that has been cruising American expressways and urban communities since the 2006 model year. Currently in its second generation, the Fusion remains a popular choice in both regular and Fusion Hybrid trims. With nearly a decade and a half behind it there are a lot of gently used Ford Fusions available in case you're in the market for a reliable car. To assist you in the pre-owned Fusion purchasing experience, we offer this buying guide so you can make an educated decision when picking the best model year for your requirements.
First Generation (2006-2012)
The Fusion made its debut in the 2006 model year. The first-generation Fusion was roomy, quiet, comfortable and had plenty of cargo space.
The 2006 model offered a base 160-horsepower, 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, while a 3.0-liter V-6 was optional. All 2006 models were front-wheel drive. It came in three trim levels. The basic S trim included air conditioning, a CD player, cruise control and keyless entry. The midlevel SE included a power driver’s seat, steering-wheel audio controls, and an improved audio system. The upscale SEL included larger alloy wheels, automatic climate control, and a 6-disc CD changer.
An all-wheel drive option for V6 models came in 2007, along with side-curtain airbags and an optional navigation system and satellite radio. The midlevel SE came standard with a 6-disc CD changer.
Ford’s Sync infotainment system was an option for the 2008 model, along with parking sensors and a new Sport Appearance package that included 18-inch alloy wheels with a distinctive interior and exterior trim. More added features included newly standard anti-lock brakes and tire-pressure monitoring for all models. Six airbags and ABS now came standard.
An electronic stability system was an option in 2009, as well as traction control for the first time on V6 models. Now standard on SE and SEL trims was satellite radio and a new blue suede interior package.
The Fusion’s biggest update and restyle in this generation came in the 2010 model, with a revised exterior design, an updated interior, and improved driving. It also offered an available blind spot warning system and a new Sport model. This year launched the Fusion Hybrid which used a 191-hp 2.5-liter hybrid 4-cylinder and a standard continuously variable automatic transmission. It’s 2.3-liter 4-cylinder was replaced by a 175-hp 2.5-liter 4-cylinder, while the V6 added 18 hp to make 240 hp.
Minor changes to the Fusion were made in 2011 which included Ford’s MyKey system and a manual shift mode for the automatic transmission. Additional available features included HD Radio and rain-sensing wipers.
No changes occurred in the 2012 model year, but it also represented the Fusion’s first-generation final year.
Second Generation (2013-2020)
A completely redesigned Ford Fusion arrived with a whole new look inside and out. It’s driving experience improved with its sharper handling and comfortable ride.
The 2013 Fusion’s new long list of features included a larger interior, automated parallel-parking system, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and an automated braking system. Its infotainment system improved, along with an available lane-departure warning system, lane-keep assist, USB ports, and automatic high beams. A 240-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder replaced the V6 engine. Also joining the Fusion was a 178-hp 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine as well as a new more efficient hybrid model.
Fusion’s 2014 model offered minor changes after the redesign in 2013. The 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine was replaced by a more efficient 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. All models added inflatable seat belts, heated rear seats and ventilated front seats for available options.
The 2015 model offered only two changes. It no longer offered manual transmission on the SE trim and the backup camera was now standard.
Only a sporty new Appearance package was offered in 2016 for the base S trim model.
The 2017 refreshed Fusion sedan is a stand-out model. The Sport model got a twin-turbocharged V-6 and other performance make-overs that made it the most powerful midsize sedan in its segment. A redesigned center console offered more storage in this already roomy sedan. A few new added features included enhanced adaptive cruise control system, an improved park-assist system and a better pre-collision braking system. A new luxury Platinum trim level was also added with high-end interior trim and distinctive wheels.
The Ford Fusion 2018-2020 years were primarily unchanged with minor styling updates. They added Apple CarPlay with available Android Auto. The 2020 loses one of its engine options, the turbocharged V6 Sport model.