In 2010, Ford scored big when its Fusion Hybrid was named the North American Car of the Year. Now, in 2011, the Fusion Hybrid is back with the same winning combination of superior fuel efficiency and truly impressive performance. This is a mid-sized sedan that would stand out in any crowd, especially the still-evolving hybrid sector. Want to complain about something? Okay. The trunk is small. Beyond that, Ford has a seriously worthy competitor for the top player in the game, the Toyota Prius.
Reviewers rave about the Fusion's SmartGuage, the display centered behind the wheel that gives the driver all the information they could ever want about driving efficiency and trip details. Pair that with the SYNC system for hands-free navigation, traffic data, smartphone, and MP3 player control, and you already have a package of technology features impressive for the class.
The Fusion Hybrid pulls down 41 mpg city and 36 highway. The Toyota Prius gets 51/48. Ford wins for comfort, performance, and handling, however. The Fusion has an opening MSRP of $28,600, with the average actual price paid sitting at $29,089. The Prius is less expensive, with an opening MSRP of $23,520, but reviewers are universal in their praise of the Ford Fusion as the far superior driving experience.
The Fusion Hybrid makes the zero to 60 mph leap in nine seconds. Powered by a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, the car has 191 hp compared to just 175 in the conventional Fusion with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder. (The Prius offers up a mere 134 hp.) The transition between systems is seamless, and although the Fusion may not be a sports car, it has a commendable amount of power and nimble handling thanks to electronically-assisted steering. As usual, there are complaints about the soft feel of the regenerative braking, but drivers report adapting quickly.
The classic look of the Ford Fusion Hybrid appeals to buyers who are turned off by the boxier appearance of competitors like the Prius. Chrome detailing adds welcome highlights without overwhelming the styling, which is identical to the gasoline-Fusion except for small "hybrid" badges. Inside the cabin is comfortable, and extremely well-finished with understated touches that create a luxurious ambiance. Both front and rear seats easily accommodate six-footers. Add superior safety ratings from the federal government and the insurance industry, and the Fusion's design flies well at all levels. Dual front air bags, front side air bags, first and second row side curtain bags, a tire pressure monitoring system, and electronic stability control are all present.
With better power than the Prius, a better design inside and out, and high safety ratings, the 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid, though marginally more expensive than the iconic Prius, is a superb mid-sized sedan. High fuel-economy is just icing on the cake for a car that's fun to drive and extremely reliable. If you're shopping for a hybrid, take the Fusion for a test drive. You'll be glad you did!
