6th Place: Ford Fusion

Overview:

In a highly competitive class, the Fusion does not stand out. It's not as comfortable, luxurious, spacious, or quiet as some of its competitors, not as quick or agile as others, and not the most fuel-efficient or the least expensive. But in this highly competitive class, it meets the high standards in most areas. It's not the most comfortable, but it's certainly comfortable. It's not the most fun, but it's no slug or soggy handler. It's not the best screaming deal, but it undercuts most of the group. With nicer interior plastics and a quieter engine, it could be fairly called a top all-around family sedan, but even as it is it's one of the better ones for anyone who favors value over maximum opulence. 

Driving the Fusion:

The Fusion has a comfortable, well-controlled ride over most surfaces, but it doesn't filter out all bumps as well as it might. However, it handles more nimbly than most competitors, if with a bit more body roll than the mechanically related Mazda6. The Mazda also has sharper steering, but the Fusions's too is responsive and well-weighted, and offers good feel, making it more fun overall than most of the group. Its V6 is on the shallow end of the group in the latest family sedan horsepower war, but the Fusion is quick enough. The engine can get too loud and rough-sounding, however, and road noise can also be excessive. Gas mileage is good by the group's standards.

Inside the Fusion:

The Fusion's front seats offer plenty of space and are comfortable enough, but are a bit hard and flat. The high-mounted rear seat is spacious and comfortable. Too much of the interior trim is hard plastic, but it's less obvious on models with dark interiors. The gauges could be larger and have some distracting styling elements. Most controls are simple, but the climate controls are too low. Drivers sit very comfortably, and have good visibility. Entry/exit is easy, thanks to wide-opening doors and high seats. The trunk is well-shaped, if not especially large.

Fusion pricing:

The Fusion is well-priced at $24,350, and comes well-equipped at that price. There is no available stability control, but such extras as Ford's "infotainment" Sync system, a reverse-sensing system, a fold-flat passenger seat, and Ford's keypad entry system are included. All-wheel-drive is also offered for about $2,000 more.

Conclusion:

The Fusion doesn't deliver the same upscale feel as most of the other high-ranking cars in this group, but it is still comfortable, practical, and fun to drive at a reasonable price. Its well-rounded character makes it worth a look from consumers shopping in this class, particularly those who favor sporty handling.

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