2010 Ford Fusion

Review

Compared to other family sedan's in the Ford Fusion's class, the vehicle has fallen behind a bit. However, the 2010 Ford Fusion is out to change all of that. Unlike its predecessors, the new Fusion has the potential to really set its self apart from the competition. Here's a look at our review of the vehicle:

Models Available

For the 2010 Fusion, Ford has made it sure that consumers have an abundance of options for their vehicle. Here's a brief look at the available options and what sets them apart from one another:

• S - As you could probably guess, this is the base model of the Fusion. Its retail price comes in just shy of $20,000, a key figure for anyone interested in an affordable sedan.
• SE - The SE Fusion is only slightly more expensive than the S, with extra features like a six-speed manual transmission and 17" wheels.
• V6 SE - Similar to the normal SE, this edition includes a V6 engine for some extra power, although it comes at the expense of fuel economy.
• SEL - With the SEL Fusion, you get the standard engine of the S edition, but all the extras included in the V6 SE version.
• V6 SEL - This version of the SEL Fusion includes a V6 engine and side curtain airbags.
• Sport - If it's power you're interested in, then the Sport Fusion may be just what you're looking for. It's the only model to include a 3.5L V6 engine with all season tires.
• Hybrid - Like the name implies, the Fusion Hybrid makes use of both an electric and gasoline powered engine. It is the most expensive model, but comes fully loaded.

Under the Hood

Ford's overhauled line of Fusions finally has the engines to match their strong exteriors. The V6 and Sport Models provide a lot of punch, with over 240 horsepower each. Even in the base models include engines that feel more than capable. If gas mileage is one of your big concerns, you may be a little disappointed with the non-hybrid Fusion. While the V6 models get just 18 MPG city driving, the smaller engine models don't fare much better at 22 MPG. The Fusion Hybrid is rated for 41 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway.

The Interior

As opposed to the older Fusion models, the 2010's interior looks much more modern. Much of the interior has a sporty look about it, especially in the models that include Ford's SYNC infotainment system, which provides navigation, real-time traffic, and more. Although the backseat is plenty spacious, the trunk space does leave a little something to be desired.

Safety

Although most vehicles these days attain at least decent safety ratings, it's good to know where your vehicle stands in comparison to the rest of the field. Fortunately, the Fusion is near the top of its class and even received the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's "Top Safety Pick" rating. The vehicle comes with standard anti-lock disc brakes, six airbags, stability control, and a host of other safety features. Also, in case you haven't heard, wearing your seatbelt is pretty important and the Fusion will remind you of that with its BeltMinder system, which alerts you when driving unbuckled.

Our Conclusion

Clearly, the Ford Fusion has never looked or driven any better. For Ford, the real question will be whether or not that's good enough. The Fusion has a lot of competition in the midsized sedan market and it won't be easy taking customers away from mainstays like the Honda Accord. However, we would encourage anyone who's interested in a new sedan to give the Fusion a try.  All in all, the 2010 Ford Fusion is obvious proof that the American auto industry is doing everything in its power to reinvent it's self and turn things around.