Looking to build on its success in the ever-competitive mid-size segment, Ford has unveiled its all-new second-generation 2013 Fusion sedan at the 2012 North American International Auto Show.
Marking a sharp departure from the design of the current car, the 2013 Fusion ushers in Ford’s latest global design language. The 2013 Fusion takes many of its cues from the Evos concept, with the car’s overall look expected to spread to future Ford products.
Ford designers scrapped the traditional three-box layout for the new Fusion, opting instead for a more coupe-like shape. As a result the Fusion looks more expensive than its actual price tag and injects a healthy dose of style into the typically mundane mid-size sedan segment.
The 2013 Fusion’s interior is just as stylish as its exterior, with flowing lines and contoured shapes displacing the straight-edged design of the current car. The all-new Fusion is also longer, wider and taller than the outgoing model, resulting in improved interior space. In fact, the new car boasts equal or better interior space in every category other than front-seat hip room. However, trunk space has been reduced, although a lower threshold should make loading easier.
In addition to that added space, passengers will also enjoy the technology packed into the 2013 Fusion. Of course the latest version of SYNC is included, but the Fusion also gains Ford’s Lane Keeping System, adaptive cruise control, active park assist and Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert.
EcoBoost for the masses
Following in the footsteps of the Hyundai Sonata, the 2013 Fusion will be offered exclusively with four-cylinder engines. However, unlike the Sonata, the Fusion lineup will feature two of Ford’s turbocharged (EcoBoost) powertrains, as well as a 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine.
The base Fusion will come equipped with a 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated four-cylinder, the only transplant engine from the 2012 model. Ford is being very sparse with the details of this engine so far, keeping power and fuel economy numbers hush. It could be that nothing has changed from the 22 city, 33 highway mpg ratings and 175 horsepower backed up by 172 lb-ft of torque.
Next up is the 1.6L EcoBoost engine developing 179 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque. The 1.6L will only be offered with front-wheel drive, but buyers will have the option of a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. Ford says the 1.6L-powered Fusion will be capable of 37mpg on the highway while an automatic start-stop system helps the car to a city rating of 26mpg.
Those wanting a bit more power or the availability of all-wheel drive can opt for a 2.0L EcoBoost engine. Shifting exclusively through a six-speed automatic transmission, the 2.0L-equipped Fusion produces 237 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque and can hit 33mpg on the highway. However, those figures don’t quite match the 274 horsepower and 34mpg highway rating offered by the Sonata Turbo.
Look for the 2013 Ford Fusion to arrive on dealer lots by spring.
Live photos by Chris Doane
