Ford’s much-loved mid-sized family sedan – Ford Fusion – has gotten more than a makeover. Packing cutting-edge technology and smart features synonymous with the Blue Oval, the 2017 Fusion includes two hybrid models and a new AWD Fusion V6 Sport.
The Fusion is Ford’s best-selling car and continues to beat challengers in its class – Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.
If you think family sedans are boring, well… think again. The attention-grabbing Fusion V6 Sport runs a 2.7-litre “Nano” EcoBoost V6 lump, mated to a specially-tuned six-speed automatic transmission. Yes, the same powerplant that debuted on the 2015 F-150. Get to your kids’ football games quicker with 325bhp and 474Nm of torque on tap. That even outguns the 2016 BMW 340.
The performance-bred model features continuously controlled damping suspension that also features pothole detection technology. Incredibly useful on Malaysian roads. Adding to the overall sporty look is a fierce blacked-out mesh grill, 19-inch rollers, rear spoiler and dual-twin exhaust outlets.
Electric power
The two new powertrain options include Fusion Hybrid and Fusion Energi. Ford says the new Fusion Hybrid and Fusion Energi lead America’s best-selling lineup of plug-in hybrids. New software in both contribute to a more refined and engaging drive, while delivering better fuel economy. This is complemented by more efficient electric motors.
The 7.6kWh lithium-ion battery has an expected range of 19 miles using electric power only. When the battery is depleted, the car automatically switches to an efficient 2.0-litre petrol engine, with a range of more than 805kms.
Recharging the Fusion Energi takes only 2.5 hours.
The Fusion Platinum variant is for those looking for better refinement and craftsmanship. It packs the award-winning 2.0-litre EcoBoost and all-wheel drive.
It’s all about the tech
Saying the Fusion is technologically advanced would be an understatement. It has the distinction of being the first card sold in North America with Ford’s pedestrian detection system. It also has hands-free parallel and perpendicular parking capability. So goodbye to bad parking (Malaysian drivers totally need this).
There’s lane-keeping assist, something I’ve experienced with the 2015 Ford Ranger, as well as Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), a technology inherited from Volvo.
Last but not least, SYNC 3, Ford’s latest, most advanced communications and entertainment system is built in. It features faster performance, more conversational voice recognition, more intuitive touch screen and GUI. SYNC connect lets you remotely start your car, schedule future starts, lock/unlock via your smartphone.
Pricing and availability
The new Ford Fusion hits retail channels in May. The Fusion V6 Sport will follow a few weeks later. The Fusion starts at US$22,995; the Sport at US$34,350, and the Platinum starts at US$37,495.
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Disclaimer: Ford Motor Company paid for my travel and accommodations at a three-day NAIAS Digital Summit. I was not compensated in any other manner for my time. My opinions posted here are my own.
