To look at the 2020 Fusion, you wouldn’t know that Ford had given up on the sedan. It’s looks as smart and is as versatile as any other sedan on the market. The Fusion comes with loads of options, including four available powertrains — one of which can be had with all-wheel drive and two that are fully electric. The 2020 Fusion is also available in a total of six trimlines, which is a lot of choice. The bottom line is that the 2020 Fusion can compete against any competitor in its class, including the Honda Accord or Mazda 6. Here’s a look inside the 2020 Ford Fusion and what makes this sedan unique and special.
Exterior Styling
The exterior styling of the 2020 Fusion isn’t radically different. There are a couple of aesthetic tweaks, notably a redesigned front grille, but nothing overly radical. There are three new color options available for 2020: Rapid Red Metallic, Iconic Silver, and Alto Blue Metallic. Beyond that, the Ford Fusion remains a smart, compact looking mid-sized sedan. It’s not the sexiest car on the road, but it’s still as stylish and sleek as other modern sedans in the same price range.
Engine and Performance
The engineers at Ford really went to town with the powertrain offerings in the 2020 Fusion. From a lackluster 175 horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, up through a competent six-speed automatic transmission, all the way to all-wheel drive, and even some electric options. A 181 horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter or a 245-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, both four-cylinders, are available in upper trim levels. The 2.0-liter engine can be paired with an all-wheel drive. The overall driving experience is comfortable, with agile handling. Reviewers have said that the 2020 Fusion feels more like a sports sedan than a family car. They also praised its responsiveness and acceleration.
Additionally, the 2020 Fusion is available in a gas/electric hybrid mode, It features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, which together produce 195 horsepower. There is also a plug-in-hybrid available. It boasts the same powertrain as the cordless hybrid, except for a larger battery pack that allows for up to 21 miles of electric-only driving per charge. The trade-off for this larger battery is significantly smaller trunk space.
Trimlines and Prices
The 2020 Fusion comes in plenty of variations. There is literally something for everyone. Let’s take a quick look through the options.
S
The base model starts at $23,170. It gets you a fairly simple sedan, with the 2.5L I-VCT Engine. Unfortunately, it doesn’t come with the Sync3 infotainment system. It only has a four-speaker stereo system, too. One of the big highlights of the base model, though, is a strong lineup of standard safety features. There is no hybrid version of the Fusion S.
SE
Stepping up to the $24,500 Fusion SE adds only a few things. For starters, you get the more fuel efficient 1.5L EcoBoost engine. The 2.0L variant is an available upgrade, as is AWD and paddle shifters. The stereo gets upgraded to six speakers. The driver seat gets power adjust capabilities and heat (again, as options). At least at this trim the Sync 3 system comes standard. The hybrid model of this trim starts at $28,000.
SEL
Jumping in price to $28,690, the Fusion SEL is probably where anyone who isn’t on an extreme budget should start. You’ll get an upgraded 11-speaker sound system, heated front seats, a 10-way power adjustable driver seat with memory settings, intelligent access with remote start, and a push button start. There’s a number of cosmetic upgrades too, including touches of chrome around the exterior. The SEL hybrid will set you back at least $31,630.
Titanium
The 2.0L EcoBoost engine comes standard on the Titanium trim, which retails for $34,450. (Interestingly, the Titanium Hybrid is priced almost exactly the same). The paddle shifters become standard here, as do a 12-speaker sound system, even more safety features, leather-trimmed sport seats, ambient lighting, a power moonroof, a heated steering wheel, a dual exhaust, LED fog lamps, and 19-inch aluminum wheels.
The plug-in version of the Titanium Hybrid also settles in right around $35,000. That gives you a few different powerstrain options for a top-of-the-line Fusion, without worrying about paying more.
Interior
In terms of the interior, Ford offers many options. There’s a wide range, from cloth seats to quilted leather. Overall, the car’s multiple interior trims are attractive and in line with what the rest of the class offers. However, drivers of the base model might feel they’ve gotten a raw deal as they slip into cloth seats.
The gas-powered Fusion holds as much cargo as most of its sedan competitors. On the other hand, the hybrid models sacrifice a lot of space for battery packs that reside in the trunk.
Technology
The infotainment options in the 2020 Fusion come in a wide range too – from dated to cutting edge. Most trimlines come standard with Ford’s Sync 3 system, which is decent, intuitive, and quick to respond. Designed to rely on touch and voice commands, the Sync 3 system is simple and intuitive to use. Its GPS navigation system is among the best available today.
Safety
When it comes to safety, the Fusion has performed well in crash tests. The NHTSA gave it five out of five stars. the IIHS scored the Fusion as “good” in all crash-worthy categories. However, they did gripe about the Fusions underpowered standard headlights. The Fusion’s newly standard suite of driver-assistance features provides an extra layer of protection. Key safety features that come standard include automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.
Warranty Coverage
Ford’s warranty coverage is so-so for the segment. It’s perfectly average, but far from awesome. Ford doesn’t offer any complimentary scheduled maintenance, although both the Toyota Camry and the Chevrolet Malibu do. Ford’s roadside-assistance terms are above average, though. The warranty coverage includes a limited warranty of three years or 36,000 miles, plus a powertrain warranty for five years or 60,000 miles.
Fuel Economy
From boosted four-cylinders to a plug-in hybrid with double-digit electric vehicle range, the 2020 Fusion’s powertrains cover a lot of ground. The reliance on turbocharged engines in most versions could mean that drivers have a hard time replicating the EPA’s fuel-economy numbers in the real world.
Ford claims the S model will achieve 21 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. The SE and SEL models come in at 23 city MPG and 34 highway MPG. However, those numbers will drop with the larger engine or AWD options equipped. The Titanium, for example, drops back down to 21 MPG and 31 MPG.
The hybrid versions offer a little more fuel efficiency, as you’d expect. All Fusion Hybrids comes in at 43 MPG in the city and 41 MPG on the highway, except for the plug-in Titanium Hybrid. It’s extra ability to ride on battery power only gives it a huge boost to 109 MPG in the city and 97 MPG on the highway.
The Good
- Multiple trimlines and loads of options and upgrades.
- Responsive engine and good acceleration.
- Decent standard technology and safety features.
The Not-So-Good
- No real changes to the exterior styling.
- Limited storage space with an electric battery in the trunk.
- Ho-hum warranty coverage.
The Last Word
The 2020 Ford Fusion has a lot to recommend about it. The wide variety of trims and powertrain options, plus loads of available upgrades, is truly impressive. A strong engine, modern technology, and fun driving experience make this car worth considering for your next purchase. While the Fusion can be knocked for having limited storage space, average warranty coverage, and lacking a bit of exterior sex appeal, there are few sedans available today that can match this car when it comes to price, performance, and perseverance. Great for individuals and families. Check it out.
Source: Ford.com
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