2006-2008 Ford Fusion: Road Test

Fusion's V6 furnishes good passing/merging response, even with the additional weight of AWD. But it's a bit shy on low-rpm power, and needs substantial throttle inputs for best performance. Ford said the V6 Fusion accelerated to 60 mph in 8.5 seconds, which feels accurate based on our testing but is still subpar compared to most V6 rivals. With manual shift, the four-cylinder model is adequate at best. Ford's responsive six-speed automatic does not hunt much between gears, but a manual-shift mode would be useful, especially in hilly terrain. Inordinately heavy clutch action and a balky shift linkage make manual shift unpleasant to use. Fuel economy is about right for this class. A manual-shift four-cylinder Fusion averaged 22.1 to 25.0 mpg. A front-drive SEL V6 averaged 21.8 mpg in mostly highway driving. AWD Fusions and Milans have averaged 18.0 to 21.7 mpg. Both engines use regular-grade fuel. A comfort-biased suspension allows minor float on high-speed humps and dips. Little difference in ride comfort is evident between 16- and 17-inch tires. A Fusion SEL with standard 17-inchers feels compliant and controlled over sharp bumps and patchy pavement. Milan sedans have a firmer ride with less floatiness, but none of these models are uncomfortable. Heavier AWD models are the most composed on any surface. Ford and Mercury models differ little in control. Pleasant and competent handling is abetted by nicely weighted, responsive steering, with a solid, well-planted straightline feel. Some drift and body lean occur in fast corners, but neither annoys. On the down side, a wide turning circle frustrates in close quarters. One test V6 model suffered mild torque steer (unwanted pulling to the side) in low-speed acceleration. AWD traction is a boon on slick surfaces. Brakes provide good stopping power with progressive pedal action. Both engines emit a noisy full-throttle growl, which recedes into the background during gentle cruising. Overall, the V6 is quieter. Little wind rush is evident, but tire thrum is heard when rolling over grooves and coarse pavement. Gauges are easy to see and read. Audio and climate systems rely on too many buttons, and take time to sort out. Also confusing are the look-alike audio/cruise buttons on the steering wheel, and the low-set climate panel can force a long look away from the road. Interior designs are decidedly understated. The available navigation system is easy to program but sits too low on the dashboard; it absorbs and complicates what should be simple audio functions. Interior materials are a blend of soft-touch surfaces with available rich-feeling leather upholstery, offset by some plastics that look and feel cheap. Milan is more upscale, with even more generous use of soft-touch surfaces and a choice of real metal or wood trim. Front legroom is good for six-footers. Headroom also ranks as good despite relatively high-set seats. Supportive seats are a bit larger than the class norm. Seat height, plus a low dashtop and windowsills, combine for fine outward vision. All models include a tilt/telescoping steering wheel--a driver-comfort plus. Rear seats offer adult-adequate headroom, good foot space, and fine support, but occupants must sit knees-up with front seats set more than halfway back. Relatively long doors are a hassle in tight spots, but they open wide to ease entry/exit. The Fusion trunk has a usefully cubic shape, but insufficient height for big boxes. Lid supports are nonintrusive struts, but the budget-grade felt-style liner looks and feels cheap. Decent interior storage is helpful.

Value for the Money
Fusion and its Milan near-twin target the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, matching those perennial Best Buys in space and interior design. Road manners leave little to be desired, though engine refinement does not match that of the class leaders. New-car pricing has been a strong suit, too-even after adding antilock brakes and head-protecting curtain side airbags, safety options we highly recommend. Used-car valuations are another story, of course. Availability of AWD also appeals. Note that there's no substantive difference between Fusion and Milan, though the latter has richer-looking interior appointments.