Flash Drive

2017 Ford Fusion Energi

December 19, 2016 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2017 Ford Fusion Energi Titanium

The 2017 Ford Fusion Energi is as handsome as it is energy efficient.

Engine: 2.0-liter I-4+electric, 141 horsepower (188 hp combined) 129 lb-ft torque

Transmission: Electronic CVT automatic, front-wheel-drive

EPA Rating: 42 mpg gas only/97 mpg electricity+gasoline

Base Price: $34,120

As Tested: $37,690

Performance:

Outstanding fuel economy in electric mode

Very good gasoline fuel economy

We averaged 39.2 mpg, but hit mid-forties often

The 2017 Ford Fusion has a sporty, contemporary style, but rear door access is still great.

Pleasant highway ride; smooth

Good acceleration

Easy transition between power sources

Enhanced Active Park Assist

Lane Keeping Assist

Cross Traffic Alert

Great obstacle warning when parking

Comfort:

Stretch-out driver and front passenger legroom

Very good headroom

Contoured, medium thick leather steering wheel

Easy-to-reach side lever for tilt/telescopic column

Large array of auxiliary controls

Big, wide opening doors

Fusion interiors are all nice, but the top Titanium trim level is extra plush.

Very good rear seat access

Soft, easy to adjust headrests

Supportive seats

Power lumbar both front seats

Three temperature heated front seats

OK adult back seat room if fronts are up slightly

Good under seat shoe room 

Utility:

Multi-compartment center console

Big open storage area

Large sliding sunvisors

Analog/digital speedometer

Hybrid proficiency info screen

Medium locking glovebox

Front door bins have notch to secure bottles

The center console has lots of well-designed spaces for modern electronic devices.

Automatic headlight dimming

Very good outward visibility

Split, folding rear seats have slight incline

Minimal trunk space due to hybrid batteries

Four large, thick over-head grab handles

Very bright rear reading lamps

WOW Factors:

Automatic parallel parking assist

Upscale interior

Wide opening doors; easy ingress/egress

Superior obstacle warning when parking

Auto headlight dimming

Impressive fuel economy

The recharging port has a lighted blue ring around it.

Whines:

Rotary gear selector took getting used to

Minimal trunk space

Tiny trunk to back seat portal

Cheap trunk carpeting

Bottom Line:

The 2017 Ford Fusion Energi Titanium is a plug-in hybrid that combines sharp styling, a luxurious interior, innovative safety/convenience features, and outstanding fuel economy at an attractive price. Its biggest negative is a tiny trunk.