“Highlighting cars, minivans and SUVs that provide the best combination of features, utility, safety and reliability,” the annual list of Best Cars for Families—put together by U.S. News & World Reports—draws on reviews and test drives from auto journalists across the country. It’s a unique approach that provides a particularly wide-ranging look at the most family-friendly vehicles in the U.S. auto industry and, this year, the list also showcases some particularly Ford-friendly appeal: With four different products winning their segments, Ford has more honorees than any other brand.

Among them:

• Ford Fusion—The Fusion took home honors as the Best Affordable Midsize Car for Families after being lauded “for its roomy interior, large trunk, good safety scores and family-friendly tech features.”
• Ford Fusion Hybrid—This high-efficiency Ford scored as the Best Hybrid Car for Families, thanks to attributes like a spacious cabin and effective technologies.
• Ford Taurus—The Best Affordable Full-size Car for Families was the Taurus, which boasts excellent crash-test ratings and available tech benefits like the MyKey system; MyKey allows owners to limit vehicle speed, audio volume and more to help teen drivers stay safe.
• Ford Edge—With more of Ford’s strong technology offerings, a high-value price and notable fuel-efficiency ratings, the Edge was named Best Two-Row Midsize SUV for Families.

Unsurprisingly, every member of this high-quality quartet also won its category in the U.S. News & World Reports Best Cars for the Money evaluations from earlier this year. And all are on sale now at local Ford dealerships throughout America.

Ford was the best-selling auto brand in the country in 2011, and as a recent study by U.S. News & World Reports shows, there’s a good reason for that kind of performance: Ford also won the most categories in the publication’s recent rankings of the “Best Cars for the Money 2012.”

“The award-winning vehicles have the best combination of praise from car reviewers, lower upfront costs and lower long-term ownership costs than their competition,” according to U.S. News & World Reports. “The winners aren’t just good cars or good values. They’re both.”

And for Ford, those winners were:

Ford Fiesta—The top choice in the Subcompact segment, as well as the highest-rated Hatchback, the Fiesta combines clean good looks, available high-tech features like Ford’s SYNC AppLink, an MSRP that starts at just $13,200, and EPA ratings that finish at 40 mpg highway. The Fiesta is offered in a sedan body style, too.

Ford Fusion—The Fusion beat out 18 other entries to take honors in the Affordable Midsize Car category, which is likely no surprise to the record 248,067 customers who purchased one in 2011. Further, the car’s high value proposition is about to get even higher, with the stunning all-new 2013 Fusion set to debut later this year.

Ford Taurus—The No. 1 Affordable Large Car was the Taurus, recognized for “its good performance, stylish design and excellent cabin electronics”—including its available SYNC in-car connectivity and infotainment system. The Taurus also is a Top Safety Pick of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Ford Fusion Hybrid—The Best Hybrid Car for the Money was the Fusion Hybrid, which, like its traditionally powered sibling, will get a complete overhaul for the 2013 model year. Not only will this next-gen version boast significantly higher fuel efficiency than the hybrid versions of rivals like the Toyota Camry or Hyundai Sonata, but it also will debut with a second hybrid powertrain with plug-in capabilities—and a higher miles per gallon equivalency rating than the Toyota Prius Plug-in or the Chevy Volt.

Ford Edge—Now capable of an eye-opening 30 mpg highway, the Edge bested all competition to be named the best Affordable Midsize SUV with Two Rows. The difference-maker? The Ford’s new 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, which also enables 21 mpg city and 24 mpg combined, while still mustering a robust 240 hp and 270 lb.-ft. of torque.

The big dogs were out in abundance during the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, but it was the completely redesigned Ford Fusion that AutoWeek named “Best in Show.”

“It’s very rare for a midsize sedan to win Best in Show,” said Autoweek editor Wes Raynal. “I think it’s the first of a lot of awards the Fusion is going to win this year.”

In fact, helping fulfill Raynal’s prophecy, the Fusion also received the much-coveted EyesOn Design recognition from the Detroit Institute of Ophthalmology during the show—no mean feat considering its fellow finalists for the honor included the all-new Cadillac ATS and BMW 3 Series.

And while the Fusion no doubt elevates the bar for midsize design, with a sleek and flowing style that is at home on the show floor as it will be at dealer showrooms, it’s packed with high-tech substance, too. EcoBoost, hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains all will be available—and all target best-in-class fuel efficiency—while the Fusion also will offer a suite of “must have” Ford technologies, including:

• A class-exclusive, multi-mode Lane-Keeping System that can help warn tired drivers if they’re drifting out of their proper lanes.
• Adaptive cruise control with collision warning, which is capable of detecting slower traffic in front of the
• Fusion and automatically adjusting the Fusion’s cruise control, as well as providing brake support if a potential frontal crash scenario is detected.
• Active park assist, to automatically steer the Fusion into parallel parking spaces.
• The automaker’s Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert, developed to warn drivers of traffic in the car’s blind spot or when backing out of a parking spot.

With all this an more, it’s no wonder J Mays, Ford’s chief creative officer, boasted that: “I’ve been with the company for 13 years and I can truly say this is the best car ever to come out of the design and engineering center in Dearborn. We are delighted for the entire global design team, because this really was a global effort.”

Wrapped in a sleek, flowing new exterior that draws on Ford’s award-winning global design language, the completely redesigned 2013 Ford Fusion is going to break fresh ground by being the first midsize sedan available with three different powertrains—gas, hybrid and plug-in hybrid—and it plans on achieving best-in-class fuel efficiency with all of them.

The Fusion actually will offer five different engines, including three that run strictly on gasoline: A standard, naturally aspirated I4 and two advanced EcoBoost four-cylinder motivators. Among that second pair will be a peppy 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine that is expected to achieve the segment’s top EPA ratings for a non-hybrid four-cylinder engine, ringing up marks of 26 mpg city/37 mpg highway; the second EcoBoost powerplant will be the hi-po choice for the Fusion, and while Ford didn’t discuss output, it’s worth noting that a similarly sized EcoBoost engine will be rated at 247 hp/250 lb.-ft. of torque in the upcoming Ford Focus ST.

For drivers who prefer a greener choice, the next-gen Fusion Hybrid receives an all-new 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle I4 engine and a lighter, more powerful battery pack now relying on lithium-ion technology. And again, Ford is planning to best all in-segment rivals with the Fusion Hybrid, which the company expects will return EPA ratings of 47 mpg city/44 mpg highway—those numbers would out-efficiency the Toyota Camry Hybrid by 4 mpg/5 mpg while trumping the Hyundai Sonata by 12 mpg/4 mpg.

Finally, gearing up to take its place at the top of the leaderboard as the most fuel-efficient mid-size car anywhere in the world, the Fusion Energi will debut with an innovative plug-in hybrid system that should break the 100 MPGe barrier—a benchmark the Chevy Volt misses by 8 MPGe and the Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid trails by 13 MPGe.

“Our vision for Fusion was clear—deliver the very best of what One Ford stands for,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president of Global Product Development. “We brought our global teams together around a blank slate with the charge to develop a midsize car with groundbreaking design and jaw-dropping fuel economy—one that featured technologies to help make our customers safer and better drivers. This car is the result.”

Falling asleep at the wheel can quickly turn into a nightmare when travelling, as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that 1,500 people each year are killed, and 71,000 injured, due to crashes caused by drowsy drivers. But those kinds of numbers served as a wakeup call for Ford engineers, who designed the all-new 2013 Ford Fusion to be the first mainstream mid-size sedan in America to offer “lane keeping” technology to combat this problem.

The Ford Lane Keeping System relies on a small digital camera that’s mounted on the windshield just in front of the rearview mirror. It allows the system to recognize lane markers on the road ahead of the Fusion to determine if the car is drifting, then can set off three different levels of driver alerts. First, an icon on the Fusion’s instrument cluster will turn yellow while the steering wheel—leveraging the latest Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) technology—will vibrate as if the car were driving over rumble strips. If the vehicle continues to drift, the icon turns red and EPAS will “nudge” the Fusion back toward the center of the lane. If the driver still doesn’t respond, the system will both nudge the vehicle and vibrate the steering wheel at the same time.

Significantly, though, the system always remains under driver control: It must be activated by the driver for it to work in the first place, while turning the Fusion’s steering wheel, accelerating or braking will overcome the nudge/vibration functions.

The automaker will add the Lane Keeping System to the Ford Explorer next year as well, and bring it to other members of the Ford lineup over the next several years.

Stay tuned for more information on the all-new 2013 Ford Fusion, which will be revealed to the public at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January.

For anyone considering an affordable midsize car, U.S. News & World Report suggests the 2011 Ford Fusion. Ford Dealers Knoxville TN pointed out that in a recent comparison of 19 vehicles, the Fusion came out on top for its family-friendly qualities, including its impeccable safety and reliability.

Connecticut Ford Dealers remind us that last year, the Fusion received a mid-life refresh to to help it standout from the competition. Although the Fusion is largely unchanged for the 2011 model year, it does feature attractive new features such as Integrated Blind Spot Mirrors and HD Radio. The interior is otherwise well-engineered and well-appointed.

Families will especially appreciate two exciting technologies on the Fusion — MyKey and SYNC. MyKey comes standard on the Fusion, and it keeps young people safe by limiting their top speed to 80 mph, limiting radio volume to 45 percent, chiming continuously when seat belts aren’t buckled and providing low-fuel warnings. SYNC is Ford’s award-winning infotainment system that allows drivers to control smart phone apps and mp3 players through voice commands.

Interestingly, U.S. News & World Report is just one of many publications to recently sing the Fusion’s praises:

• ” The Fusion is much improved from bumper to bumper, and it’s better prepared than ever to meet the high expectations of mid-sized sedan buyers.” — Car and Driver
• “Before you write off the 2010 Fusion as a warmed-over version of the previous model, we suggest you take one for a test-drive. The old Fusion was already a pretty good midsize sedan, and thanks to Ford’s determination to rectify its flaws, the new one’s even better.” — Edmunds
• “For a reasonable price you can pick up a decently equipped, nicely sized, attractive sedan that can accommodate a family of four in comfort, yet still be fun to drive.” — Autoblog
• “Regardless of which model suits your fancy, Ford’s midsize sedan offers a depth and breadth of trim levels, powertrains, and features that few rivals can match.” — Consumer Guide
• “Although much of the basic platform engineering on this front-drive/all-wheel drive four-door remains shared with its former Mazda stable mate, the MAZDA6, both its exterior and interior have be transformed to reflect a more youthful and contemporary flavor.” — Kelley Blue Book

Many car reviewers and journalists agree that the Ford Fusion is a great vehicle for small families. If you’re looking for a vehicle that’s got good looks, offers safety and strong fuel economy, and won’t break the bank, the Fusion is worth a look at NM Ford Dealers or a dealer near you..

The Ford Fusion Hybrid is America’s most fuel-efficient sedan and it may be among the highest-quality hybrids available. According to Ford, Fusion Hybrid customers are the most satisfied hybrid owners.

Ford’s hybrid taxi fleet has logged more than 80 million miles in California alone during the past decade — which is far greater than the number of miles logged by the Toyota Prius, according to Ford. Yet only a few issues have ever been documented among these high-mileage, extreme-usage hybrid taxis. Their performance is quite simply a testament to the model’s quality and reliability.

“Ford’s battery technology is so strong, the odds of experiencing an issue with one of our hybrid battery cells is around 8.5 million to 1 – about the same odds as a person being struck by lightning twice,” said Chuck Gray, chief engineer, Global Core Engineering, Hybrid and Electric Vehicles. “Ford understands that for new technology, reliability can be a concern for customers, so we work extra hard to deliver a trouble-free product.”

Not only are taxi fleets enjoying the Fusion hybrid’s reliability, but so are average consumers. The Fusion Hybrid is delivering a 75 percent conquest rate, bringing more new buyers to the brand than any other Ford vehicle. As Ford brings new electrified vehicles into the lineup, consumers can rest assured that the Blue Oval’s batteries — which Ford has been developing and testing since the 1980s — will continue to deliver durability and longevity.

“Our customers have put hundreds of millions of miles on our hybrids with virtually no powertrain issues, which is a testament to the quality of our batteries,” Gray said. “We have checked the battery life simulations with test data and with real-world customer vehicle data, and now we’re applying that knowledge to make the customer experience in our future products even better.”

For the first time since 2004, a Ford car has sold more than 200,000 units in a single year: the Fusion. Facing stiff competition in the mid-size sedan segment, the Fusion accomplished this feat by finding 219,219 new customers in 2010. Clovis Ford said it’s a healthy increase of 21.3 percent compared to the Fusion’s performance in 2009—and further evidence of how the popular Ford continues to satisfy customers.

Of course, drivers can expect the Fusion to be even more satisfying than ever in 2011, thanks to the introduction of more new and useful Ford technologies. For the current model year, Ford Dealer Kansas City said the Fusion is now available with:

• Ford’s MyKey functionality, which allows parents to set maximum speed limits on the car for teen drivers.
• Rain-sensing windshield wipers.
• HD Radio.
• The latest generation of the acclaimed SYNC/MyFord Touch infotainment and connectivity systems.
• New, integrated blind-spot mirrors, as part of the the automaker’s Blind Spot Information System (BLIS).
• An automatic transmission with SelectShift manual gear control on four-cylinder models, allowing drivers to shift for themselves.

In addition, the Fusion will once again be available in a wide range of different models to appeal to a wide range of different customers:

• Configured with an I4 engine, the fun-to-drive Fusion delivers excellent EPA numbers of 23 mpg city and 33 mpg highway.
• Drivers who need more power can choose the Fusion V6 or take things to the next level with the Fusion Sport, which offers a unique appearance inside and out to go with its robust 263-hp V6.
• Customers who want to optimize a different kind of performance can choose the Fusion Hybrid and benefit from an advanced powertrain that delivers EPA ratings of 41 mpg city/36 mpg highway.

All of which means that Ford’s mid-sizer should remain the perfect Fusion of quality, content and capabilities for a long time to come.

The all-new 2010 Ford Fusion and Fusion Hybrid continue to be bright spots within he Ford lineup. Already, Ford has entered 2010 with strong sales and continuing success. But the Fusion in particular has also helped fuel sales from customers that are new to the brand.

When it was launched, Ford had high hopes for the Fusion as it competes with segment leaders like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Nissan Altima. However, in a very short time, the Fusion has clearly proven itself in many areas such as performance, efficiency, and even luxury, and the sales figures speak volumes. Its share of the midsize car segment in 2010 has increased 12.2 percent.

Redesigned just last year, the new Ford Fusion has increased steadily in sales and has been responsible for many “conquest sales,” or sales to customers new to Ford. In fact, the percentage of customers new to Ford purchasing the Fusion Hybrid reached 82 percent in February.

“There is no reason for customers shopping for a midsize sedan to look beyond the Fusion, because the lineup offers something for everyone – a Hybrid model, a Sport version and a new selection of gas-powered engines paired with a six-speed transmission,” said Fusion Marketing Manager Jonathan Richards.

Not only do the sales figures say plenty about the Fusion and Fusion hybrid, but so do the accolades which have included:

• 2010 North American Car of the Year
• MOTOR TREND Car of the Year Award
• One of CAR and DRIVER Magazine’s “10Best” Cars for 2010
• One of AUTOMOBILE Magazine’s 2010 All-Stars
• 2009 “Top Safety Pick” rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway
  Safety
• 2009 Ward’s Interior of the Year Special Achievement Award for Best
• Graphic Display for SmartGauge with EcoGuide digital instrument
  cluster
• Great Car for the Long-haul Salesman by Kelley Blue Book kbb.com
• One of America’s Top 40 New Cars by MOTOR TREND magazine
• Rated the No. 1 Hybrid Family Sedan by CAR and DRIVER in a recent
  comparison test by the magazine
• 2009 and 2010 Editors Choice for Fuel Sipper by CAR and DRIVER
  Magazine
• Best Hybrid for the Money in the Midsize Car segment by cars.com
• One of 2009 Top 10 Green Cars by Kelley Blue Book kbb.com
• The Detroit News Readers’ Choice Award for “Best Value”
• 2010 Consumers Digest Best Buy
• Detroit Free Press 2010 Car of the Year
• 2010 Most Environmentally Progressive Car of the Year by Earth, Wind &
  Power
• 10 Best Engine by Ward’s Auto World

* * *
Read more Ford news by subscribing now.

The 2010 Ford Fusion has been updated, and debuted at the LA Auto Show. For 2010, the Ford Fusion gets updated styling, and even an all-new hybrid model. The Fusion also receives updated engines, for a total of three engine choices.

Powering the base Ford Fusion is a fuel efficient 2.5-liter four cylinder engine, providing 175 horsepower and 172 lb ft of torque. What’s more impressive is the fuel economy, as the Fusion gets more miles per gallon than the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry. Many Auffenberg Ford buyers are expected to also opt for a 240 horsepower 3.0-liter V6 engine which can also run on E85. While power had been increased, so has the fuel economy. Lastly, the Fusion Sport model will get a 3.5-liter engine which produces 263 horsepower and 249 lb ft of torque, which should help the Fusion deliver some of the most power in its class.

In addition to several engine choices, buyers may opt for either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. With the V6 models, all-wheel drive can also be had as an option which will certainly appeal to Chicago Ford customers.

Look for the 2010 Ford Fusion in dealer showrooms in Spring 2009. More information can be found below.

NEW 2010 FORD FUSION, FUSION HYBRID OFFER LEADING FUEL EFFICIENCY, SMART NEW TECHNOLOGIES

• For the 2010 model year, the new Ford Fusion lineup expands to include an all-new hybrid model that offers class-leading fuel economy, besting the Toyota Camry hybrid by at least 6 mpg in the city; innovative new SmartGauge™ with EcoGuide coaches hybrid drivers to maximize fuel efficiency
• Fusion will offer three fuel-efficient gasoline engine options – the Duratec 2.5-liter I-4 and enhanced 3.0-liter V-6 and 3.5-liter V-6 Duratec engines. Fusions equipped with the 2.5-liter I-4 engine are expected to deliver at least 3 mpg better on the highway than the Honda Accord and 2 mpg better than the Toyota Camry. The 3.5-liter V-6 powers the all-new Fusion Sport model
• Class-exclusive features, including Ford SYNC™, SIRIUS® TravelLink™, BLIS™ (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross Traffic Alert and Sony-branded audio set Fusion apart from other mid-size sedans
• The 2010 Ford Fusion will be available in dealer showrooms in spring 2009

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LOS ANGELES, Nov. 19, 2008 – Ford’s new 2010 Fusion is set to shake up the cut-throat mid-size sedan segment when it goes on sale early next year, bringing an all-new hybrid that will deliver the best fuel economy of any sedan in America, unsurpassed 4-cylinder gasoline fuel economy, more power, class-exclusive technologies including a blind spot detection and warning system and Ford SYNC, more total passenger and luggage capacity than the Toyota Camry, plus proven quality and reliability that has been recognized by the top consumer groups and magazines.

“With the new Ford Fusion, we are offering consumers more choice, even better fuel economy and the leading quality and reliability that they have come to expect,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s group vice president of Global Product Development. “But that isn’t all – we weren’t satisfied with just matching the competition in the segment, we wanted to give consumers even more by delivering engaging driving dynamics and technologies that make the in-car experience more comfortable and connected.”

Designed to stand out

Ford’s attention to detail with the freshened Fusion begins with a new design that gives the car a look that is both sportier and more upscale as well as improved aerodynamics. The car’s newly designed front end, including a powerfully domed hood, and new headlamps, grille and larger fog-lamp area further enhance the sporty nature of the 2010 Fusion. Aerodynamic enhancements and new underbody shields further boost Fusion’s fuel economy.

Overall, the wider, sportier look aims to make Fusion even more appealing to customers eager for a fun-to-drive mid-size sedan.

With all models, the interior design team created a more contemporary, technical look with metallic new finishes on the instrument panel that carry through on the center console, doors and steering wheel. The all new instrument panel is finished with a soft upper and lower skin and has much less hard plastic than Japanese competitors. The instrument panel displays and switches have also been updated with a contemporary iced blue lighting. A redesigned leather wrapped steering wheel with form fitting palm swells, a new shifter, and wrapped and padded armrests increase the Fusion’s sportiness and comfort at all key driver touch points.

The seats received a makeover, as well. The seat contour has been revised, with more side support and overall a more comfortable seat with smoother bolsters and more-textural inserts. The seats also feature contrasting stitching and leather inserts to give the Fusion even more attitude, befitting this mid-size sedan.

The gauge cluster has been designed with day time backlighting, a black lens, and 3-D elements to create a high tech jewel-like appearance, similar to a fine watch. Drivers will be greeted by a new “welcome” sequence that makes the Fusion seem as if it’s coming to life. Gauge needles sweep back and forth as the lighting and new chimes come on. The ambient lighting system offers the option of illuminating the front and rear footwells and front cup holders.

Fuel-efficient and more powerful powertrain lineup

Both the inline four-cylinder and V-6 engines are upgraded for both improved fuel economy and power. The standard Fusion S model equipped with Ford’s new 2.5-liter I-4 engine is expected to deliver at least a 6 mpg improvement versus the 2009 model on the highway, resulting in fuel economy that is at least 3 mpg better than the Honda Accord and 2 mpg better than the Toyota Camry.

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 172 ft.-lbs. of torque from the previous 160 hp and 156 ft-lbs. As a result, 0-60 performance improves by more than a second, now topping Camry and Accord.

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.

The additional gear on the I-4 provides better drivability and performance as well as fuel savings, said Matt Hettenhouse, Powertrain Team Leader for the Fusion. “The gear ratios and the overall span of the transmissions allow us to have a more-efficient and higher performing shift schedule,” he said.

The first gear can be made a little deeper, which provides smoother acceleration. At the top end, a higher gear allows the engine to run slower in highway conditions, which also aids fuel economy.

Ford’s proven Duratec30 3.0-liter V-6 engine was also improved on the 2010 model, delivering highway fuel economy gains of at least 1 mpg city and 2 mpg highway. Horsepower in the 3.0-liter V-6 also increased to 240 hp and 222 ft.,-lbs, up from 221 hp and 205 ft.-lbs. in the previous version. 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. For maximum performance, the Fusion Sport features a 3.5-liter V6 that has 263 hp and 249 ft-lbs of torque on runs on standard unleaded fuel.

Front-wheel drive and on-demand all-wheel drive are available with models with a 3.0-liter engine and with the new Fusion Sport 3.5-liter engine. Both V6 engines are also available with SelectShift for individual gear control. The versatility in the powertrain systems creates a wide range of options for customers designed to fit every need.

The 2010 Fusion now comes equipped with Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) system on 2.5- and 3.0-liter models, improving the driving dynamics of the vehicle while delivering greater fuel savings because the steering system is operated by the electrical system rather than the engine. Additionally, EPAS provides customers with improved steering feel and reduced low-speed efforts that when coupled with a nearly 1 foot smaller turning circle for 2010 makes parking a cinch.

Fusion’s front stay bar and rear suspension link geometry have been revised to improve steering, handling, and ride. The suspension springs, shocks, and sta-bars have also been retuned to take full advantage of the revised geometry and new steering system.

In addition to improvements in the 2010 Fusion’s steering, handling and improved brake pedal feel, the Fusion team also took a look at how to improve the comfort of the car, including reducing wind noise and road noise.

Acoustic windshield, thicker front door glass, new hood insulators, inner and outer dash absorbers, and carpet, revised sealing baffles, additional sound deadening in the trunk, and new interior headliner absorption material are among the improvements made for overall sound level and quality.

Improved body and door sealing also contribute to Fusion’s best-in-class standing in wind noise. Overall, the reduction in wind noise and road noise puts Fusion near some of the best luxury cars in terms of quietness and speech intelligibility. Wind noise, for example, is 3 sones better than Camry and Accord. Models with the I-4 engine are class leaders in wind noise.

All-new hybrid model

For the 2010 model year, the Ford Fusion adds an all-new hybrid model. The Fusion and Mercury Milan Hybrids join the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner Hybrids, doubling both the size and volume of Ford’s hybrid lineup.

“Offering consumers more fuel-efficient vehicle choices, including improving and increasing our hybrid vehicle offerings, is part of Ford’s broad plan to deliver technology solutions for affordable fuel economy for millions,” Kuzak said.

“With the new Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan hybrids, we are now able to offer even better range of travel on battery power at a greater speed, thanks to a more efficient, seamless transition between the battery-powered motor and gasoline-driven engine,” he said. “These new hybrids will exceed expectations on all fronts – fuel efficiency, comfort, convenience and drivability.”

The Ford Hybrid team has developed a powertrain system that combines the best attributes of the gasoline engine and electric battery-driven motors to deliver the optimal experience for the customer in terms of driving performance and fuel economy. Additionally, the propulsion system for the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan hybrids transitions between gas and electric power and back more efficiently and seamlessly.

The overall system upgrade allows the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan hybrids to operate longer at higher speeds in electric mode. The hybrid vehicles can operate up to 47 mph in pure electric mode, approximately twice as fast as some competitors. Plus, the city driving range on a single tank of gas is expected to be more than 700 miles.

The next-generation hybrid system features:

• New 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine (155 horsepower/136 lb.-ft. of torque) running the proven Atkinson cycle mated to an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission or e-CVT.
• Intake Variable Cam Timing (iVCT), which allows the vehicle to more seamlessly transition from gas to electric mode and vice-versa. The spark and cam timing are varied according to the engine load to optimize efficiency and emissions.
• Enhanced electronic throttle control reduces airflow on shutdowns, reducing fueling needs on restarts.
• Wide-band lambda sensor analyzes the air-fuel ratio and adjusts the lean/rich mixture accordingly to keep the system in balance and to minimize emissions.
• A new smaller, lighter nickel-metal hydride battery has been optimized to produce 20 percent more power. Improved chemistry allows the battery to be run at a higher temperature and it is cooled using cabin air.
• An added variable voltage converter boosts the voltage to the traction battery to operate the motor and generator more efficiently.
• A new high-efficiency converter provides 14 percent increased output to accommodate a wider array of vehicle features.
• Smarter climate control system monitors cabin temperature and only runs the gas engine as needed to heat the cabin; it also includes an electric air conditioning compressor to further minimize engine use.
• The regenerative brake system captures the energy normally lost through friction in braking and stores it. Nearly 94 percent energy recovery is achieved by first delivering full regenerative braking followed by friction brakes during city driving.
• A simulator brake actuation system dictates brake actuation and delivers improved brake pedal feel compared to the previous generation braking system.

“Because our hybrid can run at a much higher speed in electric mode, you can do so much more in city-driving situations,” said Gil Portalatin, Hybrid Applications Manager. “Under the right conditions, you can drive in your neighborhood or mall parking lots without using a drop of gasoline.”

The Fusion Hybrid also offers drivers a way to be more connected to the hybrid driving experience thanks to Ford’s SmartGauge with EcoGuide, a unique instrument cluster execution that helps coach them on how to optimize performance of their hybrid.

SmartGauge with EcoGuide features two, high-resolution, full-color liquid crystal display (LCD) screens on either side of the analog speedometer that can be configured to show different levels of information, including fuel and battery power levels, average and instant miles-per-gallon.

EcoGuide uses a multi-layered approach to coach the driver to maximum fuel efficiency.

A tutorial mode built into the display that helps the driver learn about the instrument cluster and the hybrid in a whimsical way that does not overpower. Technical enthusiasts will love the detailed gauges that will help them learn to become more efficient in their driving. Everyday drivers will love another new feature in this same gauge cluster. Called “Efficiency Leaves,” the system “grows” leaves and vines on-screen to reward customers for efficient driving.

Drivers can choose one of four data screens to choose the information level displayed during their drives. They are:

• Inform: Fuel level and battery charge status
• Enlighten: Adds electric vehicle mode indicator and tachometer
• Engage: Adds engine output power and battery output power
• Empower: Adds power to wheels, engine pull-up threshold and accessory power consumption

All levels can show instant fuel economy, fuel economy history, odometer, engine coolant temperature, what gear the car is in and trip data (trip fuel economy, time-elapsed fuel economy and miles to empty). The engine coolant temperature indicator turns green when engine conditions are warm enough to allow engine pull-down.

Several other elements help differentiate the Ford Fusion Hybrid from its gas-powered sibling, including unique hybrid “road and leaf” badging on both sides and the rear of the vehicle; unique 17-inch, eight-spoke wheels; eco-friendly seat fabric made from post-industrial 100 percent recycled materials; and a standard 110-volt power outlet.

New Sport model

The base 2010 Ford Fusion already is a fun-to-drive mid-size car. With an even sportier look, a bigger, more-powerful engine, special 18 inch wheels and upgraded suspension tuning to go along with a distinctive interior, the new 2010 Ford Fusion Sport is a dynamic, welcome addition.

“We’re maintaining the fun-to-drive elements that made the Ford Fusion such a huge success and building on those,” said Chief Engineer J.D. Shanahan. “Our 2010 models are even more fun to drive with better steering and handling. It’s all exemplified by the Ford Fusion Sport with its 3.5-liter engine, 18-inch wheels and sport tuning.”

The 263-horsepower V-6 Duratec engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with SelectShift. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available. The sport-tuned air intake system provides the fun-to-drive, powerful and sporty powertrain sound attributes expected in the 2010 Ford Fusion Sport to complement the driving experience.

Building off the improvements for the Fusion line, the 2010 Ford Fusion Sport also features a unique lower grille for a more functional look, larger beveled bright-tip dual exhausts, side rocker moldings, a decklid spoiler and unique Sport badging. Eighteen-inch painted aluminum wheels are standard.

The interior reflects its sporty nature as well. As with the base models, the Fusion Sport’s instrument panel and center console deliver a more-technical, content-driven look. Fusion Sport includes a Charcoal Black interior with a high tech soft touch dark gray finish available. Sport Blue or Sport Red interior accents are also available, depending on exterior color selected. These give the instrument panel and console a sportier look as well, which carries over to the seat inserts and contrast stitching.

Overall, the Fusion Sport is a driver’s car that is both comfortable and exhilarating at the same time.

Exclusive technologies keep consumers connected

New technology features available on the 2010 Fusion include:

• Blind Spot Information System (BLISTM) with Cross Traffic Alert, which can help provide extra confidence to drivers in parking lots by alerting drivers sooner of nearby traffic while backing out. It uses two multiple beam radar modules, which are packaged in the rear quarter panels. The radar detects moving objects within a 65-foot range from either side of the vehicle. The radar identifies when a vehicle enters the defined blind spot zone and illuminates an indicator light on the corresponding side-view mirror providing a warning that a vehicle is approaching. An audible alert is sounded as well.
• SYNC: The voice-activated hands-free in-car communication and entertainment system developed by Ford and Microsoft. The system fully integrates most Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones and digital media players, providing customers hands-free cell phone and music selection capabilities – plus new 911 Assist and Vehicle Health Report provided with no monthly fees.
  • 911 Assist: When a phone is properly paired, turned on and connected to SYNC, the system is ready to assist in placing a call directly to a local 911 emergency operator in the event of an air bag-deploying accident. The key advantage of SYNC 911 Assist is speed, as calls are placed directly to local 911 operators.
  • Vehicle Health Report (VHR): SYNC gathers relevant information from the major vehicle control modules and packages diagnostic data into a usable format in a matter of minutes. That data packet is sent to Ford via an 800-number automatically dialed using the customer’s paired and operable mobile phone.
• Voice-Activated Navigation, which integrates several functions including voice recognition destination entry, climate control and SIRIUS satellite radio into one easy-to-use system, displaying them on an 8-inch touch-screen display. The navigation system’s text-to-speech function calls out street names while in route to a destination and reads incoming text messages when the system is linked to SYNC. The integrated DVD player is capable of reading CD-Audio, MP3 CDs, DVD, DVD-Audio and DVD-ROM (for digital map updates). A music jukebox function stores more than 150 hours of music. The screen even can be customized with personal photos.
• SIRIUS Travel Link™, an industry-leading technology that, when combined with the voice-activated navigation system will provide users with real-time traffic data with accident and incident information, coast-to-coast weather data including current conditions and five-day forecasts, and fuel price information for over 120,000 gas stations. Travel Link also offers sports scores and schedules and a listing of more than 4,500 movie theaters with movie times, theater addresses, movie synopses and more.
• Reverse Camera System, which mounts a small camera on the decklid that is activated when Fusion is shifted into reverse, giving the driver a clear view behind the vehicle. The video image is displayed in the optional navigation screen on Fusions equipped with that option or in the self-dimming rearview mirror vehicles without navigation.
• Ambient Lighting System allows drivers to customize the interior lighting to suit their mood through seven base colors – ice blue, purple, blue, orange, red, white and green.
• Sony-branded audio system. The Ford Fusion is the first mid-size sedan in North America to offer a Sony-branded audio system with surround sound and Sony DSP processing as a factory option. The Sony-branded audio system features 390 watts and 12 speakers that make substantial use of high-quality speaker materials, including polypropylene cones, three-layer soft dome tweeters and large neodymium magnets for most speakers in the system.
• EasyFuel™ Capless Fuel-Filler System also is standard. This industry-exclusive feature eliminates the need to touch dirty gas caps and helps to reduce evaporative emissions that create smog and global warming. When fueling is completed and the fuel pump nozzle is removed, the system automatically seals shut.
• Cabin Air Filter is standard for the first time on the Ford Fusion. The filter removes respiratory irritants and toxins caused by traffic and industrial pollution. The filter also provides an additional safeguard for the climate control system.

With a bolder new design, class-leading and unsurpassed fuel economy and performance depending on model, a host of segment-exclusive new features and technologies, greater trunk capacity and storage versatility than Chevrolet Malibu, Toyota Camry and Nissan Altima, improved drivability and comfort and even more choice across the lineup, the 2010 Ford Fusion is poised to win over even more mid-size car customers.

Ford Fusion is built at Ford’s Hermosillo (Mexico) Stamping and Assembly Plant and will be in dealer showrooms in spring 2009.

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Check out our in-depth look at the new Ford Fusion here shortly.