If one was to describe the Ford Fusion’s life cycle in one word, it could easily be “successful”. Since its birth in 2006, the midsize sedan has gained popularity enough to become the company’s best-selling car in 2011. It may now be six years old, but the first generation model is hugely responsible for Ford staying afloat during some rather tough times. In hopes of keeping that success alive, the blue oval will soon send off a new iteration into the mainstream battlefield and with it, a new set of tricks and features to make sure the sedan can continue to stay strong. When the 2013 model year comes around, the Ford Fusion will definitely make the likes of the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry take serious notice.
Like its competitors, the next Fusion will offer a variety of versions to satisfy just about any buyer. At first, there will be three renditions to make it the first sedan to be available in gasoline, hybrid and plug-in hybrid form. The conventional car will be motivated by a selection of three gas engines ranging from base to all-out power. The standard drivetrain will be Ford’s 2.5 liter inline four cylinder with 170 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque which will be paired with the 6F35 six speed automatic. The second tier engine will be the 179 horsepower, direct injected, turbocharged 1.6 liter EcoBoost inline four. Spinning the front wheels will be 172 lb-ft of torque which can be controlled either by the 6F35 or a d0-it-yourself six speed manual. Ford expects this combo to return up to 37 mpg on the highway; impressive for a four door, non-hybrid sedan. For the power junkie, the Spanish-built 2.0 liter EcoBoost inline four cylinder can be paired with either front wheel drive or optional all wheel drive to better use its 237 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. The automatic will be the only transmission offered for the high output EcoBoost.
In order to keep with the times, two electric assisted Fusions will be available. The Hybrid will use an all-new 2.0 liter inline four paired with a permanent magnet AC synchronous electric motor and lithium-ion battery pack. A CVT transmission will put the combined 185 horsepower to the ground via the front wheels and should be efficient enough to return up to 47 mpg in the city. In an attempt to outshine the Chevrolet Volt, the plug-in Fusion Energi will aim to become the most fuel-efficient midsize sedan in the world. Using the same powertrain as the Hybrid, the Energi can be a zero emissions vehicle, recharged via home chargers and should be capable of up to 100 mpg.
Looking seriously buff, the new Fusion is much more squared off than the first car. The flat front grille is lower and more muscular compared to the slopped Fusion of years past. Taking a lot of inspiration from the Focus ST, the new car resembles a modern and efficient variation of the blue oval’s muscle cars. “Our design goal for the new car was to give the mainstream sedan buyer a top-drawer visual experience, adding some emotional appeal to an already sensible choice,” said Chris Hamilton, chief exterior designer for the 2013 Fusion. The theme continues on the inside as everything is laid out to be driver focused. A higher center console adds to more passenger space so a much more open environment can be found.
“Our vision for Fusion was clear – deliver the very best of what One Ford stands for,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president of Global Product Development. When its hits the American market later in 2012, the new Fusion will be offered in S, SE and Titanium trim. The Hybrid and Energi will follow suit shortly after and pricing should stay competitive with a base MSRP expected to start in low $20,000 range. Available options such as a Lane Keeping System, MyFord Touch, adaptive cruise control and active parking assist will bring the entry price up, but it will also create a Ford sedan that could make a massive impact on a global scale.
Source: Ford
