Ford Fusion Overview

Ford's entry into the midsize sedan market is available in S, SE, Sport and SEL trim levels for 2011. The 4-door, 5-passenger vehicle does quite a bit right in the most-competitive vehicle segment and is definitely worth consideration. The base engine is a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder making 175 hp, mated to 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmissions. Stepping up to the 240-hp 3.0-liter V6 brings with it a standard 6-speed automatic, while the Fusion Sport offers a 3.5-liter V6 with 263 hp and a 6-speed automatic. All-wheel drive is available with the V6 engine choices.

The Fusion performed admirably in crash testing, with standard safety features including 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, traction and stability control systems, and 6 airbags. Interior accommodations range from basic and utilitarian on the sub-$20,000 Fusion S to truly luxurious on the top-trim SEL when fitted with the optional Luxury package, with such niceties as heated leather seating, a Ford Sync-controlled navigation and infotainment system, a 12-speaker Sony premium audio system and a sport-tuned suspension.