2006 Ford Fusion Preview

Exterior design doesn't matter as much for Toyota or Honda, because buyers of these cars choose them for their top-tier

To me, the Fusion is downright good looking in a sophisticated, contemporary way. (Photo: Ford Motor Company of Canada)

reliability, tremendous resale value, etc, etc. For Ford to make a dent in this market it has to take a page from Chrysler's recently introduced 300, and make the Fusion so attractive, or at least controversial enough so that people on the street, in the lunchroom and hanging out with friends and family will bring it up in conversation. Have they succeeded?

I say yes. To me, the Fusion is downright good looking in a sophisticated, contemporary way. It's not trying to attract attention by being showy, but rather is well tailored. Its lines are crisp and well proportioned, its vertical headlight clusters and bold, three-slat chrome grille immediately more modern than 95 percent of its rivals, and overall profile sleek and sporty. Sure its taillights

For the first time in many years Ford will have something its European division will be jealous of. (Photo: Ford Motor Company of Canada)

aren't going to win any originality awards, but on the positive they don't detract from the design.

It's been a while since Ford has built a family car that I could see myself owning, but this is it. I believe, as long as new midsize car buyers become aware of it and make a point of visiting their Ford dealer, the Fusion will be a major hit.

The Fusion debuts to the world today, at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit's Cobo Hall, and my guess is that for the first time in many years Ford will have something its European division will be jealous of.