For the 2010 model year, the Ford Fusion received a major overhaul that brought a new exterior, better engines, and an expanded features list.

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On the surface, the Fusion gets new front- and rear-end styling -- enough of a facelift that, from some angles, it looks like a whole new model. The edgy grille continues Ford's "three-bar" chrome design cue in what's bound to be a polarizing expansion of the theme.

Under its reshaped hood, the Fusion gets three powertrain options for 2010 - replacing the outgoing two motor lineup. The top two models will be equipped with a 6F35 six-speed automatic transmission with a manual shift gate. The entry-level four-cylinder version will come standard with a six-speed manual.

For 2010, the base four is upgraded to a 2.5-liter unit pumping out 175 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque with variable intake variable cam timing, new exhaust manifolds, and electronic throttle control. Ford says efficiency is up about 10 percent over the 2009 Fusion's 20/28 city/highway mpg, though exact figures haven't been released yet.

The next step up is a modified 3.0 liter V6 that puts out 240 horsepower and 228 pound-feet of torque. A new air induction system and torque-actuated variable cam timing help boost power. The new cam design uses torsional energy instead of pressurized oil to phase the camshaft, which Ford says will helps save a bit of fuel, as well as improve response time.

The 3.0 V6 is also E85-capable. Ford says fuel economy is up 4 to 6 percent over the 2009 model.

New for 2010 is a 3.5-liter V6 -- standard on the 'Sport' model. With 263 horsepower and 249 pound-feet of torque on tap, it is essentially the same V6 used in the Flex, Edge and a handful of other Ford vehicles.

The 2.5- and 3.0-liter Fusions come with available electronic power steering. What's more, the 3.0 features an extra-aggressive deceleration fuel shutoff that Ford says will also come on 2.5-liter models eventually.

Pricing

The 2.5-liter Fusion S starts at $19,270, positioning it below the Chevrolet Malibu but above the Toyota Camry. The 'S' has basic features like air-conditioning, power windows, mirrors, and locks, capless refueling, traction control, ABS, and 16-inch wheels.

The next level up is the $20,545 SE model, which has the same features as the S, but larger 17-inch wheels, a six-speaker stereo with Sirius Satellite Radio, and the choice of the larger 3.0-liter V6. Ford Sync 2.0 is also an option on the SE.

The $23,975 SEL model adds the Sync 2.0 as standard, the seven-color lighting system, leather seats and steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, automatic headlights, keyless entry, and, again, the option of the larger 3.0-liter motor. Other options include a reverse-sensing system, all-wheel-drive, GPS, and a Sony sound system.

Lastly, the $25,825 Sport model has the 3.5-liter V6 as standard, red-, blue, or black-accented leather, chrome trimming inside, 18-inch wheels, dual exhaust, optional AWD, optional GPS, and the option of Sony audio.