2012 Ford Fusion

2012 Ford Fusion

For the 2010 model year onward, the Ford Fusion received a major overhaul that brought a new exterior, better engines and an expanded features list. 

On the surface, the Fusion got new front- and rear-end styling -- enough of a facelift that, from most angles, it looks like a whole new model. The edgy grille continues Ford's "three-bar" chrome design cue in what's bound to be a polarizing expansion of the theme.

2012 Ford Fusion

Under its reshaped hood, the Fusion gets three powertrain options - replacing the outgoing two motor lineup. The top two models will be equipped with a 6F35 six-speed automatic transmission with a manual shift gate. The entry-level four-cylinder version will come standard with a six-speed manual.

2012 Ford Fusion

For this latest generation, the base four is upgraded to a 2.5-liter unit pumping out 175 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque with variable intake variable cam timing, new exhaust manifolds, and electronic throttle control. Ford says efficiency is up over 10 percent compared to the previous Fusion's four-cylinder, now rated at 23/33 city/highway mpg.

2012 Ford Fusion

The next step up is a modified 3.0-liter V6 that puts out 240 horsepower and 223 pound-feet of torque. A new air induction system and torque-actuated variable cam timing help boost power. The new cam design uses torsional energy instead of pressurized oil to phase the camshaft, which Ford says will helps save a bit of fuel, as well as improve response time.

2012 Ford Fusion

The 3.0 V6 is also E85-capable. Ford says fuel economy is up to 20 city, 28 highway on the front-wheel drive model.
New for the latest generation is a 3.5-liter V6 -- standard on the 'Sport' model. With 263 horsepower and 249 lb-ft of torque on tap, it is essentially the same V6 used in the Flex, Edge and a handful of other Ford vehicles.

2012 Ford Fusion

The 2.5- and 3.0-liter Fusions come with available electronic power steering. What's more, the 3.0 features an extra-aggressive deceleration fuel shutoff that Ford says will also come on 2.5-liter models eventually.
Pricing
The 2.5-liter Fusion S starts at $19,695, positioning it below the Chevrolet Malibu but above the Toyota Camry. The 'S' has basic features like air-conditioning, power windows, mirrors, and locks, capless refueling, traction control, ABS, and 16-inch wheels.

2012 Ford Fusion

The next level up is the $21,375 SE model, which has the same features as the S, but larger 17-inch wheels, a six-speaker stereo with Sirius Satellite Radio, and the choice of the larger 3.0-liter V6. Ford Sync 2.0 is also an option on the SE.
The $24,805 SEL model adds the Sync 2.0 as standard, the seven-color lighting system, leather seats and steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, automatic headlights, keyless entry, and, again, the option of the larger 3.0-liter motor. Other options include a reverse-sensing system, all-wheel-drive, GPS, and a Sony sound system.

2012 Ford Fusion

Lastly, the $26,655 Sport model has the 3.5-liter V6 as standard, red-, blue, or black-accented leather, chrome trimming inside, 18-inch wheels, dual exhaust, optional AWD, optional GPS, and the option of Sony audio.

2012 Ford Fusion

The Fusion Hybrid gets its own unique page, and can be found by navigating on the list of Ford models found to the left. 2012 Ford Fusion

2012 Ford Fusion