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2008 Ford Fusion SEL V6 Sedan Shown

The introduction of the Ford Fusion marked a turning point for Ford, as the company finally had a strong entry in the midsize sedan segment for the first time in a decade. Key strengths of the Fusion include a long wheelbase that provides generous legroom throughout the cabin, responsive driving dynamics and a distinctive exterior design. In addition, the Fusion is priced lower than perennial class leaders: Entry-level, four-cylinder versions start well under $20,000. Choose the optional Duratec V6 and you’re still comfortably within the $22,000 threshold.

Among our handful of complaints about the Fusion are its engines’ so-so refinement levels and the mediocre quality of its interior materials. Also, certain features like stability control and a navigation system are not available on Ford’s midsize sedan. On the whole, though, the Ford Fusion offers good value for family-car shoppers, particularly taller families in need of extra rear-seat legroom.

A midsize, front-wheel-drive sedan, the Ford Fusion is offered in S, SE and SEL trim levels. Base S models take the 160-horsepower, four-cylinder engine only but come with all the basics, including air conditioning, a CD stereo and full power accessories. SE and SEL models can be had with either the four-cylinder or the 221-hp Duratec V6, and give you greater access to features like leather upholstery and automatic climate control. Fusions equipped with the V6 come standard with a six-speed automatic transmission, while four-cylinder models can be had with an automatic or a manual.

Inside, the Ford Fusion’s cabin has a more cohesive look than older Ford sedans, thanks to its crisp lines and coordinated textures. Unfortunately, the quality of the plastics is still a couple steps behind the import-brand competition. On the plus side, build quality is generally solid. Up front, the seats are well shaped and supportive, and all but the tallest adults will be content riding in the Fusion’s spacious backseat. Forward visibility from the cockpit is good, but a high rear deck detracts from the sightlines when backing up, a minor annoyance many Fusion owners have also noted.

Out on the road, four-cylinder Fusion models provide adequate power but lack the vigor of similarly equipped competitors in this class. Acceleration is much improved with the Duratec V6, though this engine makes its best power higher in the rpm range, at which point it becomes a bit too boisterous. Some owners have voiced these complaints as well, but many also report that the engines deliver above-average fuel economy. The engines settle down during highway cruising, and the Fusion’s cabin is well insulated from wind and road noise.

The Ford Fusion debuted for the 2006 model year and it will take a little time for it to become available to used-car shoppers. Those interested in an affordable midsize Ford sedan could look at the Fusion’s predecessor, the Taurus, which is now sold primarily to commercial fleet customers. Although this model has had a 20-year lifespan, a series of unfortunate styling decisions in the 1990s and a lack of engineering advances in the early years of the 21st century ultimately rendered it second-rate to the import-brand juggernauts in this class. Minimal standard and optional equipment is available on this older car, as Ford expects buyers to focus their attention on the superior Fusion.