2012 Ford Fusion Hybrid Reviews
As its name implies the Ford Fusion Hybrid is a gas-electric version of the the popular midsize family sedan. The hybrid model was first introduced when Ford nearly completely redesigned the Fusion in 2009.
Starting at $28,100, basic features include: 10-way power driver's seat, dual-zone climate control, automatic headlights, keyless entry, power windows, mirrors, and locks, capless refueling, traction control, and ABS. Priced $1000 above the Toyota Camry Hybrid, customers can select an optional GPS system, heated leather seats, and/or a Sony audio system.
The 2012 Ford Fusion Hybrid continues to be the midsize hybrid sedans , thanks to excellent fuel economy, attractive styling, plenty of comfort, and good dynamics. First introduced as a 2010 model, the Fusion Hybrid has won over reviewers and collected accolades ever since. The new 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid (Base MSRP: $25,795), looms as the strongest contender to the Fusion's throne, however.
There are no significant changes for the 2012 Ford Fusion.
The 2012 Ford Fusion Hybrid, meanwhile, comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine paired with an electric motor that, combined, generates 191 hp. The Fusion Hybrid is also notable in that its driving dyanmics are pretty much vice-free; it drives pretty much just like a regular Fusion.
The 2012 Ford Fusion is a five-passenger midsize sedan available in S, SE, SEL and Sport trim levels. Stepping up to the Fusion SE gets you 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlamps, foglamps, an eight-way power driver seat (with manual lumbar adjustment) and a six-speaker audio system with steering wheel controls and satellite radio. Optional is Ford's Sync system, which allows you to control Bluetooth phones, iPods and other media players through voice commands and the car's controls. The Fusion SEL adds to the SE's standard equipment different 17-inch wheels, a security code keyless entry pad, heated mirrors, automatic dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable driver seat lumbar, a four-way power passenger seat, heated front seats, leather upholstery, ambient interior lighting and Sync. The Luxury package adds unique wheels, extra chrome exterior trim, upgraded leather upholstery, contrasting stitching, unique interior trim and aluminum sport pedals.
The Fusion Hybrid is equipped similarly to the SEL, with the main differences being that the Hybrid has a specialized gauge cluster and leather seating as an option.
The Fusion Sport reverts back to the SE's standard equipment but gains a sport-tuned suspension, sport-tuned steering, 18-inch wheels, the top-of-the-line V6 engine, unique exterior and interior trim, a deck-lid spoiler, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, power-adjustable driver lumbar, Sync and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Rear parking sensors are also available.
The 2012 Ford Fusion comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 175 hp and 172 pound-feet of torque. In Edmunds performance testing, a Fusion with the four-cylinder went from zero to 60 mph in 8.9 seconds -- an average time for a four-cylinder midsize sedan. EPA-estimated fuel economy with the automatic is 23 mpg city/33 mpg highway and 26 mpg combined.
This engine comes standard with front-wheel drive (like all Fusions), but all-wheel drive is an option. Standard on the Fusion Sport is a 3.5-liter V6 good for 263 hp and 249 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is an option. With front-wheel drive, a Fusion Sport hit 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, which is quick for the class. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 18/27/21 with front drive and 17/24/19 with all-wheel drive.
The Ford Fusion Hybrid utilizes a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine that produces 156 hp and 136 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy is an EPA-estimated 41 mpg city/36 mpg highway and 39 mpg combined.
Safety
Every 2012 Fusion comes standard with stability and traction control, antilock disc brakes, front side airbags and side curtain airbags. In Edmunds brake testing, the Fusion SEL came to a stop from 60 mph in 130 feet -- a bit longer than average for this segment. The Fusion Sport fared a bit better with its 123-foot stopping distance.
The 2012 Ford Fusion's cabin features soft-touch materials and solid build quality. The Fusion Hybrid gets a distinctive gauge cluster dubbed SmartGauge, featuring a pair of color display screens flanking a traditional speedometer. There's plenty of room for passengers in the Fusion.
Driving Impressions
The 2012 Ford Fusion is one of the more engaging family sedans from the driver's perspective. We've also found the Sport's hydraulic power steering to be more responsive and natural-feeling than the electric power steering found in all other Fusions.
