First Drive: 2006 Ford Fusion

[BMWDave]

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Stone-Cold Fusion
By Basem Wasef
Date posted: 09-01-2005

Back in 1986, the Taurus was heralded as the car that would save Ford Motor Company. And it did. Now, 20 years later the same monumental responsibility has been thrust upon the 2006 Ford Fusion.

Although its outgoing Taurus sold 6.7 million units in its 21-year run, Ford has never really offered a proper midsize sedan to battle the Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, and Toyota Camry ? until now. Positioned with neat alliteration between the Focus and the Five Hundred, Ford hopes the Fusion will bridge the long-standing abyss in the company's product lineup.

A Mazda Underneath
Although it's based on a Mazda 6 chassis that has been lengthened over 2 inches and widened over an inch, the Fusion is Ford's first completely digital car, featuring computerized design, engineering and testing. The results, according to Ford, are improved interior and exterior panel fit, tighter tolerances, more efficient aerodynamics, and increased torsional stiffness (by 12.7 percent) without adding weight.

Visually, the Fusion appears smaller than its competitors, though the spec sheet indicates differently. It's greater in wheelbase, overall length and width than the Honda, Hyundai and Toyota.

Inspired by the 427 sedan concept car from 2003, the Fusion's styling is slick and uniform. Body panels are smooth and flush, and come across as looking expensive for the price point. Although its face recalls the somewhat staid Cadillac STS, its clear-lensed taillights are pure 20-something tuner.

Three Models/Two Engines
Three models are offered: the base S, which starts at $17,995; the SE; and the top-of-the-line SEL. Each comes standard with the same 2.3-liter, all-aluminum, DOHC four-cylinder that's used in the Mazda 6. It makes 160 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 150 pound-feet of torque at 4,000 rpm and can be paired with a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic.

If you want V6 power you have to step up to the SE model. Its optional 3.0-liter six-cylinder, which is also borrowed from the Mazda, makes 221 hp at 6,250 rpm and zings the price up to $21,275. Although still more expensive and less powerful than a 2006 Hyundai Sonata GLS V6, the Fusion SE V6 is cheaper than its Japanese competition.

The V6 SEL costs about $22,000 and features 17-inch aluminum wheels, automatic temperature control, upgraded interior trim, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with redundant stereo and climate controls. Add all the stand-alone options and the price can climb as high as $26,000.

Perhaps the biggest foul in the Fusion's specs are its lack of a manual transmission with the V6. Despite this V6 being paired with a five-speed manual in the Mazda, it's only partnered with a six-speed automatic in the Fusion.

Nice and Roomy
Fusions come in three different interior color schemes based on trim levels, and our SEL model featured a discreetly tasteful charcoal interior with off-white top stitching and piano black accents. The large analog gauges are also a high point, clearly indicating Ford's desire to step up the quality of its interiors. Seat comfort is also good.

Most textures are nicely finished and the secondary controls are ergonomically sound, though cabin temperature was inadvertently raised on more than one occasion by an awkwardly positioned steering wheel-mounted climate control button. In keeping with the domestic theme of supersized excess, Fusions offer six cupholders for five passengers.

Head and legroom measurements are just within the competition's range, and its 15.8 cubic feet of trunk space places it ahead of the Accord but behind Camry and Sonata in the cargo room department. The Fusion's trunk opening is extra large, however, and its rear seats drop flat with the pull of a lever.

Fusing With the Road
During the several hours we spent driving the SEL-trimmed V6 Fusion on North Carolina's winding Blue Ridge Parkway, the car felt well sorted, composed and connected to the road.

Torque peaks at 205 lb-ft at 4,800 rpm, but feels evenly spread across the power band thanks to the V6's variable valve timing. Ford estimates a six-cylinder Fusion can run from zero to 60 mph in the mid-8-second range, which would make it significantly slower than the last V6 Accord we tested, which hit 60 mph in 7 seconds flat.

The six-speed automatic transmission was the weak link in our V6 Fusion's driving dynamic. Though the six-speed automatic offers well-chosen ratios that maximize the engine's torque curve, it often hunts for the correct gear during aggressive driving. Enter a turn with a slight scrub of speed, and the transmission upshifts. Heavier throttle application will eventually kick the transmission down another gear, though it takes a heavier right foot than it should.

Enthusiasts will also no doubt disdain the transmission shifter's single low gear "L" option. A traditional 3-2-1 option would offer more driver control.

Equipped with V-Rated Michelin Pilot tires and the same four-wheel independent suspension as a Mazda 6, we weren't surprised that the Fusion felt stable and handled predictably. Hard driving yielded some understeer, but torque steer is kept in check, and the Fusion was well mannered for a car of its size.

Steering feel is positive at high speeds and the four-wheel disc brakes provide strong stops, though initial pedal feel is a bit soft. Ford engineers indicated that complaints of excessive brake dust and roughness have been addressed, implying that softer pads have been incorporated into the Fusion.

Although the car we sampled had antilock brakes, the feature does not come standard on all models. Instead, it's available as part of the Safety and Security package, which includes side airbags, first- and second-row side air curtains, and an anti-theft perimeter alarm. A traction control system is also optional, but stability control, which is standard on the Hyundai Sonata, isn't available on the Fusion.

The Verdict
Transmission indecisiveness and lack of stability management aside, the Fusion is a solid performer that feels well equipped to battle the competition. It's aggressively priced and the top trim levels are nicely finished and appointed. Ford seems to have done its homework and finally produced a car that can compete with the finest from Japan and Korea.

At the end of the day, though, it's the public that will decide whether the 2006 Ford Fusion is good enough to save the Ford Motor Company.

[Tom]

That review kind of sucked.

No manual with V6

20 something tuner lenses

8.5 0-60?  That's not very competitive.

"L"  

This isn't sounding good.

[BMWDave]

That review kind of sucked.

No manual with V6

20 something tuner lenses

8.5 0-60?  That's not very competitive.

"L"  

This isn't sounding good.

I would surmise that enthusiasts would go for the Mazda6, but I am upset at the thought of no manual in V6 versions.  If and whne the 3.5 litre comes, I would hope to see it paired with a manual.

The main thing is that this is a solid car, and is priced aggressively.  That should be enough to help it sell very well.

[Catman]

That review kind of sucked.

No manual with V6

20 something tuner lenses

8.5 0-60?  That's not very competitive.

"L"  

This isn't sounding good.

Those points won't matter to most of the buyers of this car.  Most people who shop this class buy 4 cylinders.  Most people don't bring testing electronics to test drives.  As far as the lights, it appears Ford can't win.  Ford 500, waaaaa it's bland.  Fusion, waaaaaa the lights are ricey.  Overall the car looks nice and is at least distinctive.  

[Catman]

I really appreciate how Ford kept things simple on the inside rather than trying to make some type of statement like the original Focus.  Looks well laid out with decent materials.  Simple and well built, a good start.

[Raghavan]

i don't like this car much. i like the taillights (love it actually) and the interior is really nice, but other than that, not too good.

[BMWDave]

i don't like this car much. i like the taillights (love it actually) and the interior is really nice, but other than that, not too good.

Its actually a very promising car, if you had bothered to read the article.

[Raghavan]

i don't like this car much. i like the taillights (love it actually) and the interior is really nice, but other than that, not too good.

Its actually a very promising car, if you had bothered to read the article.

But the Mazda6 is better looking, sportier, and has a manual V6. A better by IMO.

[BMWDave]

i don't like this car much. i like the taillights (love it actually) and the interior is really nice, but other than that, not too good.

Its actually a very promising car, if you had bothered to read the article.

But the Mazda6 is better looking, sportier, and has a manual V6. A better by IMO.

Its also not as plush inside, and is more expensive.

[Catman]

i don't like this car much. i like the taillights (love it actually) and the interior is really nice, but other than that, not too good.

Its actually a very promising car, if you had bothered to read the article.

But the Mazda6 is better looking, sportier, and has a manual V6. A better by IMO.

Some of you guys never think outside your own box.  This is a car for the mainstream buyer, the enthusiast market is small and while it's nice to cater to them, it's not a priority.  Besides, Ford owns a big chunk of Mazda so if you want a manual you go there to get it.  Anyway, just because the manual is not offered this year shouldn't mean it will never be offered.  Very few people want manuals and those that would like one often have to consider the reality of other family members who can't drive one.  These people will almost always get an automatic.  Especially in a midsize sedan.

[thewizard16]

While this car doesn't particularly appeal to me, I'm interested in driving one. I might go do a test drive, if I ever get time. At any rate, the interior design is very nice. It's nice to see Ford designing interiors that don't look like cheap crap.

[TBR]

Catman, are you becoming a Ford troll?  :o

R&T also reviewed the car and was pretty positive, it handles almost as well as the 6 but is more refined.

[Raza]

Yes, this car won't be a hit with enthusiasts.

But then again, it doesn't have to be.

[MX793]

Hmm, not only is there no manual for the V6 (understandable considering how many manual cars are sold these days) but no sport-shift mode for the automatic?  They could have at least offered that much, as I'm sure a sport-shift manual mode would alleviate some of the gearbox complaints.

Otherwise, it looks to be a pretty solid effort, if not class leading.  Better than the tired old Taurus, at any rate.

[Catman]

Catman, are you becoming a Ford troll?  :o

R&T also reviewed the car and was pretty positive, it handles almost as well as the 6 but is more refined.

Nope.  But I do believe in giving credit where it is due.   Dwelling on shortcomings that are only an issue to 5% of the buyers is silly in this class.   I'm glad to see Ford trying to compete in the sedan market.  

[TBR]

Catman, are you becoming a Ford troll?  :o

R&T also reviewed the car and was pretty positive, it handles almost as well as the 6 but is more refined.

Nope.  But I do believe in giving credit where it is due.   Dwelling on shortcomings that are only an issue to 5% of the buyers is silly in this class.   I'm glad to see Ford trying to compete in the sedan market.

I wish the mags thought that way to, otherwise the Five Hundred wouldn't have gotten bashed for being underpowered .

And, a manual option for the V6 is at least being considered.

[Catman]

Catman, are you becoming a Ford troll?? :o

R&T also reviewed the car and was pretty positive, it handles almost as well as the 6 but is more refined.

Nope.  But I do believe in giving credit where it is due.   Dwelling on shortcomings that are only an issue to 5% of the buyers is silly in this class.   I'm glad to see Ford trying to compete in the sedan market.

I wish the mags thought that way to, otherwise the Five Hundred wouldn't have gotten bashed for being underpowered .

And, a manual option for the V6 is at least being considered.

That is funny because a know a couple of people who own 500's and they're great cars and aren't as "underpowered" as they're exaggerated to be.

[BMWDave]

Catman, are you becoming a Ford troll?? :o

R&T also reviewed the car and was pretty positive, it handles almost as well as the 6 but is more refined.

Nope.  But I do believe in giving credit where it is due.   Dwelling on shortcomings that are only an issue to 5% of the buyers is silly in this class.   I'm glad to see Ford trying to compete in the sedan market.

I wish the mags thought that way to, otherwise the Five Hundred wouldn't have gotten bashed for being underpowered .

And, a manual option for the V6 is at least being considered.

That is funny because a know a couple of people who own 500's and they're great cars and aren't as "underpowered" as they're exaggerated to be.

Just curious, did you drive the new 500 the police department near you got? If so, what were your thoughts on it.

[ifcar]

"That is funny because a know a couple of people who own 500's and they're great cars and aren't as "underpowered" as they're exaggerated to be."

It was a bad time for Ford to roll out a 203-hp car, the same year as the LaCrosse came out with up to 240, the 300 had 250 and 340, and the Avalon (at the time) was rated at 280. It's quicker than the hp figures suggest, and more than enough for its class, but it falls out in spec comparisons.

[TBR]

yeah, I agree that the numbers are lower than its competitors, but it is also cheaper than its competitors, something few magazines focus much on simply because they don't have to make real life buying decisions.

[ifcar]

It's not just that it's cheaper, it's that it offers a low-end version. Comparably-equipped, a Five Hundred SEL or Limited isn't all that much less than other large sedans (it's still decidedly in the cheaper half though) but it has the SE version that compares only to the LaCrosse CX and 300 2.7, and, unlike them, is well-equipped without a purposely-pathetic engine, and is actually easily available on dealer lots.  

[Tom]

Hmm, not only is there no manual for the V6 (understandable considering how many manual cars are sold these days) but no sport-shift mode for the automatic?  They could have at least offered that much, as I'm sure a sport-shift manual mode would alleviate some of the gearbox complaints.

Otherwise, it looks to be a pretty solid effort, if not class leading.  Better than the tired old Taurus, at any rate.

Yes, an optional sport shift would be good IMO.

I hope/wish Ford will keep producing the Taurus, even if only to sell to fleets.

[ifcar]

I like the Taurus, it's still a decent car by today's standards, and with a low price, it could represent a true value. I hope it sticks around for fleet and some retail sales.  

[mazda6er]

8.5 with the V6? Sounds to me like Ford is being waaay conservative. I'm almost positive I could get about that with the 4-banger in my Mazda. Looks like a good car to me, though I couldn't agree more about the transmission and it's stubborn resistance to downshifting under acceleration. Luckily, I shift myself B).  

[mazda6er]

I like the Taurus, it's still a decent car by today's standards, and with a low price, it could represent a true value. I hope it sticks around for fleet and some retail sales.

My dad has a Taurus and we love it. It's a great family car that's spacious, fairly quiet and you feel safe sitting in it. The driving position is horrible though, handling isn't that great, and rear access is so-so. But for the money, you can't go wrong.

[Tom]

I like the Taurus, it's still a decent car by today's standards, and with a low price, it could represent a true value. I hope it sticks around for fleet and some retail sales.

My dad has a Taurus and we love it. It's a great family car that's spacious, fairly quiet and you feel safe sitting in it. The driving position is horrible though, handling isn't that great, and rear access is so-so. But for the money, you can't go wrong.

Yeah, my dad is on his second.  Both have been almost problem-free, they drive/handle good(ok, good enough), and were bought 1-year used for very cheap compared to the others we looked at.

[SJ_GTI]

It's not just that it's cheaper, it's that it offers a low-end version. Comparably-equipped, a Five Hundred SEL or Limited isn't all that much less than other large sedans (it's still decidedly in the cheaper half though) but it has the SE version that compares only to the LaCrosse CX and 300 2.7, and, unlike them, is well-equipped without a purposely-pathetic engine, and is actually easily available on dealer lots.

What is wrong with the engine in the Lacrosse CX? 197 HP/225 lb-ft of torque is pathetic?

[TBR]

It's not just that it's cheaper, it's that it offers a low-end version. Comparably-equipped, a Five Hundred SEL or Limited isn't all that much less than other large sedans (it's still decidedly in the cheaper half though) but it has the SE version that compares only to the LaCrosse CX and 300 2.7, and, unlike them, is well-equipped without a purposely-pathetic engine, and is actually easily available on dealer lots.

What is wrong with the engine in the Lacrosse CX? 197 HP/225 lb-ft of torque is pathetic?

I think he was calling the 300 2.7l underpowered, not the 3.8l lacrosse. That said, it has always been a great mystery to me that they used the 3.8l instead of the 3.5l or 3.9l (it is even more odd that they did they same thing with the Lucerne).

[dave998]

I like the Taurus, it's still a decent car by today's standards, and with a low price, it could represent a true value. I hope it sticks around for fleet and some retail sales.

Its sticking around for another model year as buyers ease off of the taurus into the 500, focus, and fusion.

[ifcar]

It could stay longer. The only downside for it not staying around past 06 is some negative press for its age, but it's still a decent competitively-priced family car and a near-ideal rental car.