Ford will offer four- and six-cylinder versions of the Fusion when it goes on sale, with a new hybrid model planned for 2008. The aluminum, four-cylinder engine displaces 2.3 liters and makes 160 horsepower at 6,250 rpm and 150 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm while meeting partial zero-emission vehicle standards in California. The aluminum, 3.0-liter V6 generates 210 horsepower. A six-speed automatic is standard with the V6, while the four-cylinder Fusion gets either a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic to send power to the front wheels. In 2007, all-wheel-drive will become optional. Four-wheel-disc brakes and independent suspension at each corner are standard on the Fusion, but ABS is an option. Unquestionably, the 2006 Ford Fusion is a compelling midsize sedan. But without a reputation for reliability, without a longer warranty, without free scheduled maintenance, we think it's going to be hard for Ford to sell this car against Accords, Altimas, and Camrys without incentives. Better warranty coverage, a price that undercuts segments leaders, and flawless launch would help guarantee that the 2006 Ford Fusion is a success. It's extremely stylish, is probably fun to drive, and should be a great place to spend time behind the wheel.
Photos courtesy of Ford Motor Company
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About Christian Wardlaw
Christian Wardlaw joined Autobytel's Automotive Information Center (AIC) in January 2003, and current serves as Manager of Content Development for Autobytel. Previously, Christian spent eight years as Editor-in-Chief and Director of Automotive Data for Edmunds.com. A writer, editor, and automobile aficionado, Christian is a different sort of car enthusiast. His passion lies in the vehicles that people most often buy, rather than with high-performance sports cars or ultra-luxury sedans. “Given the choice to spend an hour with a Dodge Viper or a Honda Accord, I’ll choose the Accord,” he claims. Unless, of course, the driving venue is a racetrack. Christian has been a car enthusiast all of his life, uttering “car” as his first word while growing up in Detroit. A graduate of Western Michigan University, he holds a bachelor’s degree in English. His daily drivers include a 1994 Mazda Miata, a 2004 Mazdaspeed Miata, and a 2005 Nissan Murano.
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