The 2010 Ford Fusion gets a major facelift and an expanded lineup that offers something for everyone.
A new range of engines delivers more power and improved fuel efficiency throughout the line. A new Fusion Hybrid model boasts the latest in technology for 47-mph cruising in electric-only mode, nirvana for commuters. Meanwhile, a new Fusion Sport model promises to bring more driving excitement to the line with a powerful 3.5-liter V6. The new Fusion lineup will offer a choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, the latter not available on the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord.
The 2010 Fusion boasts a bigger, bolder three-bar grille design than that of the current model (2009 and earlier), with freshening on the rear and upgrades to the interior.
Most important are the three engine upgrades: The four-cylinder engine has been enlarged from 2.3 to 2.5 liters, boosting power to 175 horsepower and 172 foot-pounds of torque. The new 2.5-liter four-cylinder will be available with either a CVT automatic transmission, a six-speed manual transmission, or a new six-speed automatic transmission, each of which yields greater highway fuel economy than the transmissions in the 2008 models. Ford says preliminary testing of the new Fusion shows highway fuel economy in the range of 33 miles per gallon along with quicker 0-60 acceleration performance than that of the four-cylinder competition.
The 3.0-liter V6 engine, the first optional engine for the new model year, has also been given a substantial power and torque upgrade, to 240 horsepower, available with either a six-speed manual or six-speed overdrive automatic transmission. The new V6 has variable intake-valve closing technology and uses electric, not hydraulic power steering to save fuel. The 3.0-liter V6 engine is E85 flex-fuel capable, with a rating of 250 horsepower on E85 ethanol/gasoline, and capable of 0-60 times under eight seconds flat. The SelectShift six-speed automatic transmission features full manual control of shifting and adds a Grade Assist function that blocks out sixth gear, allows better engine braking on downhills, and holds each gear longer.
A 3.5-liter V6 engine adds driving excitement to an upcoming Fusion Sport model. The 3.5-liter V6 is rated at 263 horsepower and 250 foot-pounds of torque and is available only with the six-speed automatic. Ford says the 2010 Fusion Sport will cover the 0-60 sprint in seven seconds flat with equal or better fuel economy than the leading competitors.