Price Car Ford Fusion Hybrid

Fusion Hybrid Design

Why did the Fusion Hybrid rack up awards? Because the vehicle established a new benchmark in hybrid technology. Marrying a seamless, sophisticated hybrid powertrain to the outstanding Fusion platform positioned solidly in the middle of the mainstream market proved to be a winning combination.

It’s fun to drive and speaks of refinement all around, from handling and braking through comfort and convenience. The accolades have not gone unnoticed by hybrid car buyers through the end of October, the Fusion hybrid is number two in hybrid car sales for 2010, edging out the Honda Insight and soundly besting the Toyota Camry Hybrid.

Fusion Hybrid Engine

Given that the Fusion underwent a major refresh for 2010, the 2011 Fusion Hybrid and gasoline-powered models are largely unchanged. However, it does receive new technology features, like MyKey, HD radio and rain sensing windshield wipers that appeal to buyers who, according to Kelly Blue Book, "need the practicality of a well-appointed, well-engineered and crisp handling family-sized four-door." MyKey will keep parents at ease when their teen drivers are behind the wheel. It chimes continuously when seat belts aren’t buckled, gives earlier low-fuel warnings, limits radio volume to 45 percent and can sound chimes at 45, 55 and 65 mph.

Enthusiasm from the auto press is also extended to the Fusion Hybrid’s road manners. Car and Driver said, "While most hybrids squeeze the fun out of driving, the Fusion has nicely weighted steering, a nimble chassis, and rides in a controlled, supple manner. You can hustle the car down a back road and get a smile on your face, which is not something one can say about the Camry hybrid." Consumer Reports wrote, "The ride/handling balance remains a Fusion strong point, with responsive steering and taut body control that makes for an enjoyable drive. The ride is firm yet compliant, much like that of an upscale sports sedan." Nadaguides.com said the Fusion Hybrid’s 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine provides plenty of power for freeway ramps, while hugging the road and offering a comfortable ride.

The combined output for the Fusion Hybrid’s engine and motor is 191 horsepower. Besides the Hybrid, the 2011 Ford Fusion lineup offers a choice of three different engines: a 2.5-liter inline-4 with 175 horsepower; a 3.0-liter flex-fuel V6 with 240 hp; and a performance-tuned 3.5-liter V6 with 263 hp.

Fusion Hybrid Interior

The one consistent criticism regarding the Fusion Hybrid’s drive is that Ford exaggerated when it claimed that the sedan can go 47 miles per hour, and as much as two miles, in all-electric mode. That requires just the right conditions for acceleration, load, battery charge level, weather and proper alignment of stars. Unless you exert extreme care to stretch the electric drive, you shouldn’t count on more than a few blocks at relatively low speeds.

If you like the Fusion Hybrid’s more dynamic handling and performance, and smoother hybrid system, compared to the Camry Hybrid or Altima Hybrid, then get ready to pay for it. The 2011 Fusion Hybrid, with a base MSRP of $28,825 is more than $2,000 over the Camry Hybrid or Altima Hybrid. And it’s several thousand dollars more than the base-level Fusion S trim, which has a fuel efficiency rating of 23/33. For reference, Ford’s other hybrid, the Escape Hybrid SUV, is comparably priced to the Fusion at $29,865 and offers fuel economy at 34 in the city and 31 on the highway.