Ford Fusion (United States of America, 2005-2011)

The first generation of Ford Fusion as unveiled in 2005.

In 2009, the model received a facelift. Fusion's line-up was expanded to include a hybrid version and three other fuel-efficient petrol engine options. New information technologies were also included.

The 2012 Ford Fusion offers a suite of innovative safety technologies and information technologies.
Class-exclusive SYNC® is available on Fusion SE and above models and provides hands-free access with simple voice commands. Every vehicle with SYNC offers hands-free calling via paired and connected Bluetooth®-enabled phone, hands-free music via USB-connected digital media player and customer support and software updates via SyncMyRide.com for registered owners.

Other available SYNC Services features include Traffic, Directions and Information, which allows customers to receive traffic alerts, turn-by-turn directions and business search through the radio, hear personalized news, weather, horoscopes, stocks, movie times and sports content, get travel information and send directions directly to the SYNC system. Also available is Vehicle Health Report, which allows customers to receive an online report of vehicle diagnostics, and 911 Assist™, which can connect directly to a 911 operator through the paired mobile phone after an accident in which an airbag deploys.

In 2011 a new engine was introduced, the 263-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 Duratec engine which is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with SelectShift. Front-wheel drive is standard, all-wheel drive is available. The sport-tuned air intake system provides an assertive growl that complements the driving experience.

For 2011, Ford Fusion Sport also features a unique lower grille for a functional look, large beveled bright-tip dual exhausts, side rocker moldings, a decklid spoiler and unique Sport badging. Eighteen-inch painted aluminum wheels are standard.

With the new generation Ford updated the model's design in order to improve aerodynamics which translated into a new front end, new headlamps, grille and larger fog-lights to give the car a sportier look. New metallic finishes on the instrumental panel, center console, doors and steering wheel contribute to a more contemporary and modern design. The seats were also revised with the seat contour receiving alterations to provide more side support and comfort.

Both the inline four-cylinder and V-6 engines are upgraded for both improved fuel economy and power. The 2.5-liter I-4 engine horsepower and torque also have been improved from the car’s outgoing 2.3-liter 4-cylinger engine, jumping to 175 hp and 232Nm of torque from the previous 160 hp and 211Nm.

The 2010 Fusion features an all six-speed transmission lineup, including for the new 2.5-liter I-4 engine, which is available with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. The previous 2.3-liter I-4 in the Fusion was available with only five-speed transmissions.

Ford’s Duratec30 3.0-liter V-6 engine was also improved on the 2010 model. Horsepower in the 3.0-liter V-6 also increased to 240 hp and 300Nm, up from 221 hp and 277Nm in the previous generation. The 3.0-liter engine is now flex fuel-capable and can run on E-85 ethanol, which delivers even more horsepower, up to 250hp.

In 2010 Ford introduced the Fusion Hybrid by M&J Enterprises which appears with a variety of accessories and aerodynamic parts that are either lighter in weight than the factory items, increase fuel economy or eliminate petroleum-based products. For example, air splitters, heat-reflective paint and window film.

Powered by a new 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine (155 horsepower/184Nm of torque) running the Atkinson cycle it is mated to an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission or e-CVT.

At the SEMA show the 2010 Fusion Hybrid featured a silver exterior with a two-tone paint job – dark charcoal with green pearl on top – and bright green striping. Jonathan Garcia, a principal at M&J Enterprises in Phillips Ranch, California says that one of their goals was to try “to show people that hybrids can be really cool with the right kind of accessory modifications”.

Aimed at consumers with environmental concerns and that prefer customizing their vehicles the 2010 Fusion Hybrid by M&J Enterprises reunites all the ingredients of a desirable eco-friendly vehicle.