2008 Ford Fusion
by Rebecca Antioco - 11/07

Fitting between the Focus and the Taurus in the Ford lineup, the Fusion is a well-equipped mid-sized sedan that is worth a look for those who don’t want to shell out the money for a Toyota Camry or Honda Accord.

The three trim levels — S, SE and SEL — are all front-wheel drive, with a 160-horsepower four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission. SE and SEL trims can be upgraded to a 221-horsepower V-6 with a six-speed automatic; all-wheel drive is optional with this configuration.

Fusion is a roomy vehicle. We took it on a weekend road trip to Tucson, packed full with four adults and our luggage. The 15.8 cubic foot trunk was especially impressive, accommodating two sets of golf clubs in addition to our over-packed suitcases and duffle bags.  The only complaint from the rear-seat passengers was regarding the lack of an air-conditioning vent back there. Though Fusion is technically a five-seater, I recommend keeping maximum capacity at four; no one will want to spend an extended amount of time in the middle rear seat.

Interior amenities include power accessories, tilt/telescoping steering wheel with cruise and audio controls, an MP3 audio-input jack for playing your iPod directly through the sound system, and two 12-volt power points. Many of the desirable options are not available on the base S model, however. Those include premium sound system, Sirius satellite radio, rear park assist and leather seating. The DVD-based navigation system is only available on the top-of-the-line SEL.

Ford’s most notable option is the new SYNC, a voice-activated, hands-free communication and entertainment system that is optional on SE trims and standard on SELs. Developed jointly by Ford and Microsoft, the system allows you to operate digital media players (like iPod) and BlueTooth-enabled phones via voice commands or steering-wheel controls. And, as new features are developed, current SYNC users can have their system updated to include the latest functions.

At the other end of the usefulness spectrum is the optional ambient lighting feature, which dimly illuminates cupholders and footwells. You can choose from seven different colors with the touch of a button but, overall, the lights add little to the interior ambiance.

On the safety front, the Fusion scored well on tests by both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (four out of five stars) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (Good, the highest possible rating). However, stability control is not available on any Fusion models, a serious oversight in our view. Traction control is available as an option with the V-6 engine.

Drivewise, the Fusion is comfortable, quiet and responsive. The engine isn’t particularly powerful, but is competent. You certainly don’t get pushed-back-in-your-seat acceleration excitement, but it is enjoyable to drive and quiet at highway speeds. The automatic transmission isn’t flawless, getting a little noisy at higher rpm, but, again, performance here is competent. There is no manual shift feature, which you will find on many other vehicles in this class.

Overall, Fusion is attractive, relatively sporty and reasonably priced. It doesn’t stand out in a crowd, but if you care more about substance than style, give it a look.