Ford's redesigned Fusion lineup includes the return of plug-in hybrid Energi model, one of the most affordable cars you can buy that will run on electricity alone, if for a limited distance.
Ford also points out that while Honda and Toyota also offer hybrid versions of their Accord and Camry models, Fusion is one of just two mid-priced family sedans with plug-in functionality, along with the Hyundai Sonata. On a full charge, which can be achieved in as little as 2.5 hours, Ford says the car will travel as far as 30 km before firing up the 2.0L four-cylinder gasoline engine.
That engine makes 141 hp and 129 hp on its own, but Ford says total output is 188 hp with it and the electric motor working together. The manufacturer doesn't quote a torque figure, but we figure it's something close to the 185 lb-ft Fusion's available 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder makes.
Power goes to the road through a continuously variable transmission that electronically regulates how much work gas and electric motors contribute to driving the car.
Ford hasn't published 2017 fuel consumption estimates yet, but those for the mechanically-similar 2016 model were 5.8/6.5 L/100 km (city/highway) when using gas and electricity, and 2.7 Le/100 km when running on electric power alone. We expect the 2017 model's ratings to be similar.
While Toyota arguably rules the gas-electric marketplace with cars like its Prius and a range of other hybrids, and Honda's Accord Hybrid is a seriously good car, Ford takes a different approach here, giving its Fusion a truly European driving feel that gives driving enthusiasts something to look forward to, even if that mostly manifests on twisty roads; this is a not a quick car in a straight line.
Fusion Energi starts out in SE trim, at $34,588, and comes standard with 17-inch wheels, heated 10-way power driver's seat and six-way power front passenger seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, 11-speaker stereo, SYNC 3 infotainment, satellite radio, dual configurable LCD in-cluster displays, speed-sensitive wipers, rear parking sensors, active noise control, trip computer, tilt-and-telescopic steering column, cruise control, auto-dimming rearview mirror, intelligent keyless entry, remote engine start, EV mode button, heated wide-angle side-view mirrors, LED headlights, fog lights, signature lighting and taillights, backup camera and an electric parking brake.
Mid-level Titanium ($36,788) trim adds a 10-way front passenger seat, leather sport seats, 12-speaker Sony stereo, ambient lighting, aluminum sport pedals and front scuff plate and a rear spoiler.
Finally, the Platinum jumps the $40,000 mark to $44,588 and adds blind spot warning and lane keeping systems, premium leather seating, ventilated front seats, navigation, leather-trimmed dash and armrests, rain-sensing wipers, heated steering wheel, enhanced active park assist, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, sunroof, garage door opener, sport grille with unique paint and pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection.
