The electric motor elevates the combined output of the hybrid powertrain to 191 horsepower and, remarkably, the Fusion’s acceleration times are not affected at all. Sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h takes just 8.5 seconds.
A nickel-metal battery pack feeds this motor. It’s smaller and lighter than the Escape Hybrid’s, while a new design allows it to cool down through simple air flow and operate at higher temperatures.
The battery pack is mounted behind the rear seatbacks, meaning the latter can’t be folded to increase cargo room. On the other hand, trunk space is reduced by only 4 percent, which is pretty negligible. Furthermore, said trunk is way more accommodating than the competition. Actually, it compares favorably to hatchbacks like the 2009 Prius and the 2010 Insight (with rear seats up). Bottom line: you don’t have to skimp on luggage!
Fact and fiction
In terms of driving experience, the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid leaves little room for criticism. The spacious interior can comfortably sit four adults -- five if need be. Firmer seats would make long trips more enjoyable, though.
Driving this car is rather pleasant. The power steering is devoid of vagueness, unlike the new Insight’s. I found it to be precise and nicely assisted. Also, the gasoline engine turns on and shuts off almost imperceptibly.
Inspiring EcoGuide
Such fun behind the wheel encouraged me to take up the fuel economy challenge. In fact, Ford designers wanted to help environmentally-conscious drivers by incorporating a 4.3-inch LCD screen called SmartGauge. Featuring the EcoGuide, it offers four display modes: Inform, Enlighten, Engage and Empower. Each one provides a relative amount of data on real-time powertrain efficiency.
In Empower mode, a small "EV" indicator appears on the left of the speedometer when the car runs on pure electric power. A variable-length strip then tells the driver how to modulate the throttle to prevent the combustion engine from coming to life. Cool!
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| The EcoGuide displays of the SmartGauge panel sure are unique, but they require a lot of attention from the driver. |
A nickel-metal battery pack feeds this motor. It’s smaller and lighter than the Escape Hybrid’s, while a new design allows it to cool down through simple air flow and operate at higher temperatures.
The battery pack is mounted behind the rear seatbacks, meaning the latter can’t be folded to increase cargo room. On the other hand, trunk space is reduced by only 4 percent, which is pretty negligible. Furthermore, said trunk is way more accommodating than the competition. Actually, it compares favorably to hatchbacks like the 2009 Prius and the 2010 Insight (with rear seats up). Bottom line: you don’t have to skimp on luggage!
Fact and fiction
In terms of driving experience, the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid leaves little room for criticism. The spacious interior can comfortably sit four adults -- five if need be. Firmer seats would make long trips more enjoyable, though.
Driving this car is rather pleasant. The power steering is devoid of vagueness, unlike the new Insight’s. I found it to be precise and nicely assisted. Also, the gasoline engine turns on and shuts off almost imperceptibly.
Inspiring EcoGuide
Such fun behind the wheel encouraged me to take up the fuel economy challenge. In fact, Ford designers wanted to help environmentally-conscious drivers by incorporating a 4.3-inch LCD screen called SmartGauge. Featuring the EcoGuide, it offers four display modes: Inform, Enlighten, Engage and Empower. Each one provides a relative amount of data on real-time powertrain efficiency.
In Empower mode, a small "EV" indicator appears on the left of the speedometer when the car runs on pure electric power. A variable-length strip then tells the driver how to modulate the throttle to prevent the combustion engine from coming to life. Cool!
 |
| The spacious interior can comfortably sit four adults -- five if need be. |