We've been happy with the suspension settings on the regular Fusion since it came to market in late 2005, so it's no surprise that the Hybrid feels quite good on everything from city streets to broken country roads. The Fusion always feels solid, and our preproduction test car only raised a few complaints about excessive motions over smooth roads-an issue that could be attributed to its preproduction status or the increased weight associated with a hybrid powertrain. Once we drive a regular production Fusion Hybrid, we'll share a final verdict on the suspension tuning (not that the target demographic will likely care, since its effect on fuel economy is negligible).
The 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid is quite an amazing achievement. It's ironic that Ford launched this Fusion, its first hybrid car, just as the Detroit Three automakers were being grilled in front of congress for building gas guzzlers and other "cars nobody wants." Well, the Fusion Hybrid is far from a gas guzzler and is at least the type of car that people in Washington, D.C., think everyone wants. As if those achievements weren't enough, the Fusion Hybrid also manages to be the most involving and fun-to-drive hybrid on the road. The Blue Oval was certainly under the microscope for a while, but this Fusion is proof that Ford can build class-leading cars without any outside assistance.
As a bonus, anyone who purchases a Fusion Hybrid by March 31, 2009 will be eligible for a $3400 federal tax credit. Buyers who wait until April 1, 2009 will be eligible for only a $1700 credit. From October 1, 2009 until March 31, 2010, the credit will be reduced by half again, to $850. Anyone buying a Fusion Hybrid after March 31, 2010 will not be eligible to receive any tax credits unless there is a change in the tax code.
Powertrain:
Engine: 2.5-liter DOHC I-4
Power: 156 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque: 136 lb-ft @ 2250 rpm
Electric Motor:
Type: 400v permanent magnet AC motor
Power: 106 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque: 166 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Battery:
Type: 275v Nickel-Metal Hydride
Output: 35 hp
System Total Power: 191 hp
Transmission: Continuously variable automatic
Wheels, Tires: 17-inch aluminum, 225/50VR17
Measurements
L x W x H: 190.6" x 80.1" x 56.9"
Legroom F/R: 42.3"/36.7"
Headroom F/R: 38.7"/37.8"
Trunk capacity: 11.8 cu ft
Curb Weight: 3720 lb
EPA Rating (city/highway): 41/36 mpg