2011 Ford Fusion SEL Review

The Fusion mid-size sedan has been around since the 2006 model year, and although it hasn’t yet received a full redesign, Ford is constantly improving it every year. As a result, it doesn’t seem to age as quickly as it should, and stays competitive against the likes of the Honda Accord, the Toyota Camry and the Hyundai Sonata.

Constant improvements keep the Ford Fusion competitive. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour/Auto123.com)

Offered in a wide variety of trims, powertrains and equipment levels, the Fusion has something to please everyone in the market for such a car. If the S and SE versions don’t have enough content for you, the SEL offers goodies such as 17-inch alloy wheels with V-rated rubber, fog lamps, power front seats, dual-zone climate control, the SYNC multimedia system, power windows and cruise control.

But you don’t have to stop there. Our test car is also equipped with the Chrome Sport Appearance Package that tacks on 18-inch alloys, a sport suspension, a rear spoiler, heated front seats and specific interior trimmings. Dressed in Blue Flame Metallic, it looks pretty good.

However, the giant three-blade razor that doubles as a front grille doesn’t quite get a unanimous thumbs-up. Personally, I think it’s fine, but some said it was overdone.

Refined drive
The car drives and behaves extremely well, especially when considering its age. It benefits from a refined ride, a quiet suspension and even a sporty character to go with its appearance.

Two V6 engine options are available in the Fusion, but for most people, we think the 16-valve, 2.5-litre 4-cylinder will do a fine job. With 175 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque, and connected to a 6-speed automatic, our Fusion scooted to 100 km/h in 8.8 seconds and through the quarter-mile in 16.7 seconds at 142 km/h.

The low engine speed on the highway, 1,800 rpm at 100 km/h, also helps keep fuel economy high. Our average of 9.4 L/100 km isn’t spectacular, but we’re happy with that number.

The 175-horsepower, 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine will do the job for the majority of people. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour/Auto123.com)