2006 Ford Fusion Preview

Something that may be forthcoming, albeit nary a hint was given regarding its potential, is an SVT version of the

Unlike the Taurus, the Fusion definitely looks worthy to carrying the SVT initials. (Photo: Ford Motor Company of Canada)

car. The Taurus, in recent years, wasn't the right platform to attach Ford's fastest initials. It worked for the old Yamaha-powered V6 and V8 SHO variants that predated the SVT division, but when these debuted Ford's midsize sedan was considered fresh, contemporary and even somewhat revolutionary from a domestic maker. The Fusion is more akin to the agile Contour, based on a previous generation Ford of Europe Mondeo, which sported an SVT version. If Mazda was willing, its new 270-horsepower turbocharged 2.3-litre 4-cylinder, plus 6-speed manual transmission and all-wheel drivetrain, derived from the MazdaSpeed6, would be worthy of the SVT designation - just a thought from a hopeful sport sedan enthusiast.

Back to what is real, at least as far as I can be sure, the Fusion looks like it will be extremely talented as far as ride and handling characteristics go. Again, I've experienced first hand what the blue-oval boys can do with a large car, making their Five Hundred dance around most competitors while on a closed course, so starting with a smaller chassis derived from one of the best slalom cars in the midsize

"Fusion does what you want it to do. It's light and nimble, with responsive steering, yet always feels planted." (Photo: Ford Motor Company of Canada)

segment, the Mazda6, should make the Fusion a lively performer.

While I have yet to drive it and validate my beliefs, for now we'll just have to take Fusion vehicle engineering manager Kerry Baldori's word for it, when he said, "Fusion does what you want it to do. It's light and nimble, with responsive steering, yet always feels planted."

It features an independent short and long arm (SLA) with rearward facing lower control arms and a 24 mm stabilizer bar up front, plus a fully independent multi-link setup with coil-over shock absorbers and lower control arms with a 16 mm stabilizer bar in the rear.