The Ford Fusion Energi is a practical blend of fuel economy and family-sized space. Stepping beyond the Hybrid model, the Energi version takes the comfortable, fun-to-drive Fusion midsize sedan and adds an efficient gasoline/electric powertrain that allows for electric-alone propulsion.
Unlike the Hybrid, the Energi’s battery can be charged at an electrical outlet. Owners could go entirely gas-free on commutes around town. Unlike pure electric cars, you don’t have to worry about the battery going dead—a malady known as “range anxiety.” The Energi's plug-in hybrid system automatically switches to the gasoline engine when the battery is depleted
What's New for 2017
For 2017, the Fusion Energi gets a new upper-end Platinum trim level. Energi software has been updated, the electric motor is claimed to be more efficient, and new advanced safety features are available. Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system, said to be more intuitive than the previous setup, is now standard.
Choosing Your Ford Fusion Energi
In the Energi model, a 2-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine works with a 7.6 kWh electric motor, for a total output of 188 to 195 horsepower. The Fusion Energi has an EPA-estimated range of up to 22 miles on electric power only.
With both the electric motor and gas engine operating, total range is greater than 500 miles. Charging the battery at a 240-volt outlet takes as little as 2.5 hours, according to Ford. With the standard 120-volt charger, recharging takes about seven hours.
An eCVT transmission sends power only to the front wheels; all-wheel drive isn't available. Selectable driving modes can either prolong or shorten the time when the gas engine is assisting the electric motor.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), fuel economy is estimated at 42 mpg city/highway with the gas engine active, or 97 MPGe equivalent when operating on battery power. An EcoGuide system provides real-time coaching to boost gas mileage.
The Fusion Energi is now available in three trim levels.
Starting at $31,120, the SE sedan comes with dual-zone automatic climate control, an 11-speaker audio system, satellite radio, rear parking sensors, a backup camera, front console, rear armrest, leather-wrapped steering wheel, LED headlights and taillights, and a 120-volt charger cord. Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system is standard, and alloy wheels hold 17-inch tires.
An optional Driver Assist Package bundles blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning. and rain-sensing wipers. Also available are such options as Active Park Assist, adaptive cruise control, a moonroof, navigation, inflatable rear seatbelts, and a heated steering wheel.
For only $1,000 more than the SE, the Titanium edition adds leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, a 10-way power passenger seat, a 12-speaker Sony audio system with HD radio, ambient lighting, and a rear spoiler. Options are similar to those on the SE.
Now positioned at the top of the Fusion Energi lineup, the $39,120 Platinum version includes such safety technology as pre-collision warning with pedestrian detection, blind-spot warning with cross-traffic alert, active lane-keeping, and adaptive cruise control. Premium leather-trimmed seats, heated/cooled front seats, a heated steering wheel, SYNC Connect, and a power tilt/telescopic steering column also are included. Active Park Assist is standard, along with a navigation system and a moonroof.
An Energi SE sedan will probably satisfy most buyers, but the price difference between that model and the step-up Titanium is relatively modest. So, upgrading might be hard to resist. Moving upscale to the new Platinum edition is a much steeper jump, though its active-safety features could be well worth the extra cost. Federal and state incentives, if available, could lower the total outlay substantially.