Ford Renames Upcoming Taurus Replacement from Futura to Fusion

Just the same Fusion is an odd choice as the name connotes a "merging of diverse, distinct, or separate elements into a unified

By the dictionary definition of the term Fusion, the name better suits a crossover like the current Ford of Europe Fiesta-based subcompact minivan than a conventional 4-door sedan. (Photo: Ford Motor Company of Canada)

whole," or so says the Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary. This denotes something more akin to a crossover vehicle than the 4-door sedan that Ford has planned, something exactly like the Ford of Europe Fiesta-based subcompact-sized minivan that goes by the same name.

Still, Ford may have chosen the Fusion name to signify that the model will offer an impressive sound system capable of reproducing the superior dynamics needed to appreciate the complexities of fusion jazz - Herbie Hancock Ford has your ride.

Or possibly the upcoming Fusion manufacturing process will include "liquefying or rendering plastic by heat," another

Will there be consumer Fusion confusion with two very different cars sharing the same name? (Photo: Ford Motor Company of Canada)

Merriam-Webster definition that seems the closest thus far.

That is until considering that a hybrid-electric Fusion will reportedly follow close behind the release of the conventionally powered model, fusing an electric motor with an internal combustion gasoline engine to increase fuel efficiency, reduce emissions and most likely improve acceleration.

But what about Fusion confusion? Using the same name for two entirely different models could be confusing to consumers, as North Americans hearing about the new sedan in a radio ad, for instance, and then using an internet search engine such as AOL.ca, Google.ca or Yahoo.ca to research it, may end up finding European information without realizing it and then making the quick decision that a subcompact minivan isn't to their liking.