Acceleration

SEL 4-cylinder, manual	SEL V6	SEL V6 w/navigation	AWD SEL	Class Average
4	5	5	5	5.6

Fusion or Milan, with manual transmission, 4-cylinder versions are adequate, though they feel a bit slower than our test car's 9.2-second 0-60-mph time would suggest. Ford has improved the manual transmission's shifter and clutch action on 2008 Fusions, so it's no longer unpleasant to use. V6 versions furnish good passing and merging power, even with the additional weight of AWD. But these models require large throttle inputs for best performance and lack the solid around-town response of other V6 rivals. Ford says V6 Fusions do 8.5 sec 0-60 mph, which feels accurate based on our tests. The automatic transmission is responsive, but a manual-shift mode would be useful, especially for hilly terrain. No Fusions or Milans with the 4-cylinder engine and automatic transmission have been made available for us to test.

Fuel Economy

SEL 4-cylinder, manual	SEL V6	SEL V6 w/navigation	AWD SEL	Class Average
6	5	5	5	5.6

In Consumer Guide testing, manual-transmission 4-cylinder Fusions averaged 22.1-25.0 mpg. A front-drive Fusion SEL V6 averaged 21.8 mpg in mostly highway driving. A Milan Premier V6 averaged 20.1 mpg. Test AWD Fusions and Milans averaged 18.0-21.7 mpg. All Fusions and Milans use regular-grade gas.

Ride Quality

SEL 4-cylinder, manual	SEL V6	SEL V6 w/navigation	AWD SEL	Class Average
6	6	6	7	6

Fusion and Milan feel compliant and controlled over sharp bumps and patchy pavement. Fusion's suspension tuning allows minor float on high-speed humps and dips. Milan has a firmer ride with less float, but none are uncomfortable. Heavier AWD models are more composed on any surface. There's little difference in ride quality among the various tire sizes.

Steering/Handling/Braking

SEL 4-cylinder, manual	SEL V6	SEL V6 w/navigation	AWD SEL	Class Average
6	6	6	7	6

Again, there's little difference between the Ford and Mercury and models equipped with the sport suspension versus those without. All are pleasant and competent, abetted by nicely weighted, responsive steering. In a straight line, all feel solid and well-planted. A wide turning circle frustrates in close quarters. Test front-drive V6 versions suffered mild torque steer in low-speed acceleration. AWD traction is a boon on slick roads.

Quietness

SEL 4-cylinder, manual	SEL V6	SEL V6 w/navigation	AWD SEL	Class Average
6	6	6	6	6

Both engines emit a noisy full-throttle growl and recede into the background in gentle cruising. The V6 is quieter overall. There's little wind rush, but tire thrum is heard over grooves and coarse pavement.

Controls

SEL 4-cylinder, manual	SEL V6	SEL V6 w/navigation	AWD SEL	Class Average
5	5	4	5	6.3

Fusion's dashboard is distinguished from Milan only in some surface materials and color schemes. On both, the gauges are easy to see and read. Audio and climate systems rely on too many buttons and take time to sort out. Ditto look-alike audio/cruise buttons on the steering wheel. The low-set climate panel can force a long look from road. The navigation system is easy to program but is set too low on the dashboard. It absorbs and complicates what should be simple audio functions.

Details

SEL 4-cylinder, manual	SEL V6	SEL V6 w/navigation	AWD SEL	Class Average
5	5	5	5	5.5

Fusion's interior is a bit on the bland side with its monochromatic dash panels and some flimsy-looking hard plastics. A few dress up bits from the available sport package improve the interior ambiance only slightly. Milan's cabin has a more upscale look to it, with generous use of soft-touch surfaces and a choice of real metal or wood trim.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

SEL 4-cylinder, manual	SEL V6	SEL V6 w/navigation	AWD SEL	Class Average
7	7	7	7	6.7

Both provide adequate headroom and legroom for six-footers. The seats are supportive, a bit larger than class norm, and relatively high-set to contribute to fine outward visibility. All Fusion and Milan models include a tilt and telescopic steering wheel, a driver-comfort plus.

Room/Comfort (rear)

SEL 4-cylinder, manual	SEL V6	SEL V6 w/navigation	AWD SEL	Class Average
5	5	5	5	5.1

Adult-adequate headroom, good foot space, and fine support. Occupants must sit knees-up if the front seats are set further back. Longish doors are a hassle in tight spots but open wide to benefit entry and exit.

Cargo Room

SEL 4-cylinder, manual	SEL V6	SEL V6 w/navigation	AWD SEL	Class Average
4	4	4	4	4

The trunk has a usefully cubic shape but insufficient height for big boxes. The lid supports are nonintrusive struts. Decent interior storage.

Value within Class

SEL 4-cylinder, manual	SEL V6	SEL V6 w/navigation	AWD SEL	Class Average
5	8	7	8	6.2

Fusion and its near-twin Mercury Milan target the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, and they match those class leaders for room and interior design, if not engine refinement and road manners. Pricing is a Ford/Mercury strong suit, as is the availability of all-wheel drive. Note that there's no substantive difference between the Fusion and Milan, but the Mercury can cost less when comparably equipped. It has richer-looking interior appointments, to boot. These midsize sedans earn our Recommended rating.

Total Score

SEL 4-cylinder, manual	SEL V6	SEL V6 w/navigation	AWD SEL	Class Average
59	62	60	64	63

Scores for all Midsize Cars

Low Score		48
Average Score		63
High Score		74