STRENGTHS:
Excellent value; edgy styling; powerful selection of engines; available hybrid powertrain; optional all-wheel drive
VALUE:
Ford's Fusion offers a lot of bang for the buck in a midsize car, and with a wide variety of engine options, available all-wheel drive, a new Sport version, and a new hybrid system, it's a strong contender in a field led by the Chevy Malibu, Honda Accord, and Toyota Camry.
WHAT'S NEW:
For 2010, the Ford Fusion gets freshened styling, as well as a host of powertrain improvements and additions. A 3-bar grille and more angular headlamps have been added to the nose and an aggressive-looking front lower air intake is also now fitted, with large fog lamps mounted to either side. All engines receive a boost in power, and the 3.0-liter V6 is now capable of running on E85 fuel. A new Fusion Sport is available, featuring a 263-horsepower 3.5-liter V6, and a gas/electric hybrid makes its debut this year, featuring a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder paired with an electric motor. A 6-speed manual and automatic are now available, up from only five speeds in 2009, and a new blind spot alert system is available.