2006 Ford Fusion: Tester's Comments

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2006 Ford Fusion 

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  • MSRP: $17,145 -$21,710
  • Invoice: $16,017 -$19,954

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Find out what the Consumer Guide Automotive testers had to say about the 2006 Ford Fusion. See if the 2006 Ford Fusion is right for you.

Vehicle Evaluated


Make/Model: 2006 Ford Fusion
Trim Level: SEL
Arrival Date: 11/07/2005
Engine: dohc V6
Bodystyle 4-door sedan
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
4WD/AWD: No
Base Price: 21,710
Price as Tested: 25,230
Mileage at Beginning of Test: 3445
Mileage at End of Test: 3801
Total Measured Miles: 356
Total Fuel Used: 16.37 gals.
Consumer Guide Fuel Economy: 21.75 mpg (what's this?)
Problems During Test: None
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Major Options

Safety & Security Package (driver/passenger airbag, side-curtain airbags, anti-theft perimeter alarm), SEL Premium Package (heated power mirrors w/puddle lamps, auto rear-view mirror, compass, auto headlamps), heated front seats, traction control, antilock brakes, leather seats, audiophile sound system

From the Back Seat

Chuck Giametta

In nicely equipped SELV6 form, at least, this is an impressive job by Ford. This fully loaded example listed for about $25,000, which seems a nice value, even against the new feature-per-dollar darling, the Hyundai Sonata. Fusion is a bit more rewarding to drive than the Sonata, I think, though it's still not as finely honed as the Honda Accord or as isolating as the Toyota Camry. Bottom line: Here, finally, is the competitive mainstream midsize sedan Ford has needed for so long.

Rick Cotta

As close as domestic makes currently come to matching Asian and European midsize rivals, the Fusion nonetheless lacks the polish of top competitors. But aside from some ergonomic issues, it's a modern design offering good value for the money.

Vehicle Evaluated


Make/Model: 2006 Ford Fusion
Trim Level: SEL
Arrival Date: 10/16/2006
Engine: dohc V6
Bodystyle 4-door sedan
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
4WD/AWD: No
Base Price: 21,710
Price as Tested: 25,650
Mileage at Beginning of Test: 12730
Mileage at End of Test: 13140
Total Measured Miles: 410
Total Fuel Used: 20.978 gals.
Consumer Guide Fuel Economy: 19.51 mpg (what's this?)
Problems During Test: None
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Major Options

Safety & Security Package (Side Air Curtain, Driver/Passenger Air Bag, Anti-Theft Perimeter Alarm), SEL Premium Package (Heated Power Mirror with Puddle Lamps, Electrochrome Mirror, Compass, Auto Lamp On/Off Delay Headlamps) Heated Front Seats, Anti-Lock Brakes, Traction Control, Leather Seating, Audiophile Sound System

From the Back Seat

Chuck Giametta

Though the tariff for curtain side airbags and ABS comes to a reasonable $1200, some buyers will forego these vital safety features to save a few bucks. Ford's more responsible route would be to make them standard and pad its good-corporate-citizen image rather than its profit margin. Otherwise, this is a perfectly serviceable sedan: roomy, comfortable, and competent, if not particularly refined.

John Biel

With the V6/automatic powertrain and traction control that our previous four-cylinder/manual Fusion SEL test car lacked, this vehicle stickered for only about $2800 more: $25,650 with delivery. That's still a pretty good price for a roomy car with the full complement of comfort and safety features most buyers will want.

Kirk Bell

The Fusion is a perfectly competent car with little if anything to make it stand out from the crowd. The ride is nice. The interior is serviceable, but not warm. The V6 is fine, but it's not as good as those form Saturn, Honda, Toyota, or Nissan. If you want a competent American car, this is fine. If you want one of the best in the class, this isn't it.

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