2012 Ford Fusion Hybrid

With the best monthly fuel costs in its class at an affordable price, the 2012 Ford Fusion Hybrid has become very popular among drivers everywhere.

This hybrid’s sleek design and advanced interior options are characteristics not often seen on similar economy cars in general; furthermore, it has enough power to make it highly enjoyable to drive.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Hybrid Sedan Base Price: $28,775.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.5 gallons (66.2 liters) MPG: 41 city / 36 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 190.6 in. (484.1 cm) Wheel Base: 107.4 in. (272.8 cm)
Height: 56.8 in. (144.2 cm) Width: 72.2 in. (183.4 cm)
Curb Weight: 3285 lbs (1490 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 16.5 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: Atkinson-Cycle Inline-4 Hybrid Displacement: 2.5 Liter
Horsepower: 156 HP Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 136 lb-ft @ 2250 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Motor: AC Synchronous Battery: 275v NIMH
Horsepower: 191 HP Battery HorsePower: 35 HP

The Fusion Hybrid sedan is equipped with a 2.5 liter 4 cylinder gas engine and an electric motor. The dual-powered engine produces an increased 191 combined horsepower. In the city, average drivers get 41 miles for each gallon of gas; on the highway, drivers can expect around 36 miles for each gallon of gas.

Performance

This Ford hybrid sedan is a pleasure to drive because it doesn’t compromise on acceleration to get good gas mileage. Drivers can travel from 0-60 miles per hour in only 8.7 seconds, which is unheard of in most hybrid midsize vehicles.

The gas only standard Ford Fusion model actually offers only 175 horsepower, which is LESS than the 2012 Ford Fusion Hybrid. The automatic transmission offers smooth transitions between electric and gas engine while driving are less noticeable than other hybrids.

Options

You can choose from nine colors for your Fusion hybrid’s body: ingot silver metallic, black, ginger ale, sterling gray metallic, white platinum metallic tri-coat, white suede, steel blue metallic, tuxedo black or red candy metallic tinted. There’s also an optional sun roof feature available.

Features

– Reading lamps for the front seat
– Keyless entry system
– Telematics navigation
– Optional rain-sensitive windshield wipers
– Optional engine start remotely
– Five passenger seating
– Optional HD radio system
– Satellite radio
– MP3 player inputs

Safety

Federal government agencies have awarded the 2012 Ford Fusion Hybrid four out of five stars for rollover risk and side crash impacts. With seven airbags total, including a special air bag to protect the driver’s knees, this vehicle offers more protection than most midsize cars.

Warranty

All buyers receive a 36,000 mile or three year warranty, whichever comes first, on every part of the car from one bumper to the other. The standard powertrain is backed with a 60,000 mile or five year warranty. The hybrid components of the powertrain should last even longer, with a 100,000 mile or eight year warranty.

Pros & Cons

This hybrid has struck an excellent balance between fuel economy and performance of an all-gas powered vehicle. In addition, it’s highly affordable and offers very high value for its cost in the long run.

Some reviewers have found that the brakes of this Ford hybrid require a little more pressure to respond than conventional Ford models. Others have noted a tendency of this car to under-steer, impairing the driver’s ability to make sharper turns. The under-steer may be due to the additional engine weight and low rolling resistance in the tires.

On the other hand, it should be noted that other reviewers were pleased with the regenerative brake response and steering capabilities; therefore, individual driving styles and preferences may determine whether or not to buy this hybrid.

In conclusion, this car is best suited for those who want an affordable hybrid sedan that not only offers a high tech interior but also has a good acceleration capacity. By comparison, the Toyota Camry Hybrid offers similar features in the same price range, but is much more lacking in its driving performance.

Competition

The Hybrid market is led by the Toyota Prius (MSRP $18,950; 53 city / 46 hwy), the Fusion is definitely an ideal alternative for a sedan. Following behind are the Toyota Camry Hybrid (MSRP $25,990; 43 city / 39 hwy) and the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid (MSRP $25,580; 35 city / 40 hwy).

Overall Rating
77 out of 100

What others say:

“On paper, the Fusion Hybrid’s specs are fairly conventional–by hybrid standards, that is…It’s also one of the best-looking hybrids you can buy.”Car Connection

“The Hybrid is a step less nimble overall than other Fusions, and its regenerative brakes require firm pressure and more pedal travel than conventional versions.”Consumer Guide

“The midsized Fusion is a decent family sedan that will be replaced in fall 2012 by a more substantial car. High points of the current car include competent ride and handling, and the 34 mpg overall for the hybrid version.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Spacious interior; engaging handling; comfortable ride; abundant high-tech features; good fuel economy from Hybrid model; available all-wheel drive.”Edmunds

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