Before Ford pulled the plug in 2020, the Fusion quietly became one of the best midsize sedans on the used car market. Two generations, 15 model years, plenty of engine choices, and prices that won't empty your savings add up to a seriously appealing package for anyone who wants a comfortable daily driver without paying Camry or Accord money.
- Across all model years, the Fusion earned a 4.0 out of 5.0 reliability rating, with the 2019 and 2020 models standing out as the best used picks.
- Second-generation models (2013 to 2020) offered available all-wheel drive, turbocharged EcoBoost engines, and a roomy cabin with 38.3 inches of rear legroom.
- Clean used Fusions regularly sell for under $16,000, making them one of the better values in the midsize sedan class right now.
Two Generations, One Solid Reputation
Ford introduced the Fusion in 2006 as a direct answer to the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. That first generation rode on a Mazda-designed platform, and it showed in the handling. It actually beat out the Camry and Accord in several comparison tests during its early years, offering a 2.3-liter four-cylinder or an optional 3.0-liter V6 with all-wheel drive starting in 2007.
When the second generation arrived for 2013, it brought a totally different look that drew Aston Martin comparisons. This time around, buyers got a plug-in hybrid option (the Fusion Energi), an expanded engine lineup with turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinders, and way more tech inside the cabin. A 325-horsepower V6 joined the roster in 2017 as the Fusion Sport, making it one of the quickest mainstream sedans you could buy at the time.
What Drives Well and What to Watch For
Most second-gen buyers ended up with the 1.5-liter EcoBoost, which returns up to 27 mpg combined and handles daily driving without complaint. Stepping up to the 2.0-liter EcoBoost added extra punch, while the hybrid setup paired a 2.0-liter engine with an electric motor for 188 combined horsepower.
On the road, the Fusion feels planted and confident. Suspension tuning strikes a nice balance between comfort and control, and even front-wheel-drive models stay composed in bad weather. Want AWD? Look for the 2.0-liter EcoBoost or Sport trim.
There are a few things to watch for, though. Between 2013 and 2016, the 1.5-liter and 1.6-liter EcoBoost engines had head gasket issues that could lead to coolant leaks and overheating. Gas-only models generally have better repair histories than the early hybrids, so a conventional powertrain from 2017 or newer is your safest bet.
Best and Worst Model Years
Any good Ford Fusion review comes down to three things: performance, reliability, and value. And on all three counts, the 2019 and 2020 models earn top marks. Both received updated styling, and safety tech like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist came standard. Just one recall and very few reported problems make the 2020 Fusion a particularly safe pick.
Steer clear of the 2010 through 2012 models, though. Power steering failures, electrical issues, and brake system complaints show up frequently in owner reports. First-gen Fusions can also develop rust in snowy climates, so inspect the undercarriage carefully.
For the best bang for your buck, look at 2016 to 2018 models. By then, the early EcoBoost problems had been sorted out, and clean examples with reasonable mileage regularly show up well under $16,000. RepairPal puts annual maintenance at about $581, right in line with the midsize sedan average of $526.
Features That Still Hold Up
Starting in 2017, SYNC 3 brought Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to the Fusion's dashboard. Higher trims like the Titanium and Platinum got leather seating, dual-zone climate controls, a power moonroof, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. By 2019, you could also get blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and forward-collision warnings. And with 16 cubic feet of trunk space, there's plenty of room for weekend bags and grocery runs.
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Find Your Next Ford Fusion at S&H Auto Group
If the Fusion sounds like the right fit, we'd love to help you find one. At S&H Auto Group, we carry a wide selection of used Ford vehicles across our Elkhart, Osceola, and Goshen locations. Every car on our lot goes through an inspection and comes with a vehicle history report so you know exactly what you're getting. Our finance team works with all credit situations, and you can get pre-approved from home before you visit. Stop by and take a Fusion for a test drive to see why so many drivers still swear by this sedan.