Ford Fusion Hybrid Review

By: John Lester
Staff Writer
Published: Oct 19, 2009

Review - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid Electric Mode Features

More than a month ago, we wanted to bring you additional information about the Ford Fusion Hybrid car. The 2010 Ford Fusion can operate on pure electricity at speeds up to 47 mph (miles per hour). The Fusion Hybrid has an MPG (miles per gallon) rating of 41 in the city and 36 on the highway.

Ford Fusion is powered by a V6 gasoline engine and electric motor. The vehicle includes a new propulsion system which handles the gas to electric transition more efficiently and seamlessly. More importantly, the propulsion system allows the car to operate longer at higher speeds while running on its electric mode. This mode is also known as the EV-mode.

The hybrid car comes with a base MSRP of $27,270. However, you get exactly what you desire in a hybrid. The vehicle includes advanced green car technologies and consumers can still get a hybrid tax credit to help offset the purchase price. One feature in particular is called SmartGauge. This is a new technology that helps the driver achieve maximum fuel efficiency.

The instrument panel was designed to coach the driver. The driver has all the necessary read-outs to improve their fuel efficiency. The vehicle gauge cluster features daytime backlighting with a black lens and some nice 3-D elements to create a high tech appearance. There is also a great ambient lighting system that illuminates the front and rear foot wells and cup holders.

SmartGauge is designed to help Fusion Hybrid owners to maximize fuel efficiency. High-resolution, full-color LCD screens can be configured by the driver to show different levels of information, including fuel and battery power levels, as well as average and instant miles-per-gallon. The gauge needles move from left to right.

There is also a lot of quality embedded in the interior. It is finished with a soft upper and lower skin that carries through the center console, doors, and steering wheel. The panel display shines a has a nice contemporary iced-blue lighting. The leather wrapped steering wheel was completely redesigned with form fitting palm swells and a new shifter.

Ford also has approximately 17 global patents for the 2010 Fusion. The car is based on several innovations and designs by Ford. This hybrid isn't your ordinary car, and when you drive it, you can appreciate all the breakthrough technologies that were built into the vehicle.

The Ford Fusion price might seem a bit steep for many, but again, you won't find a cheaper car that has this level of quality. I must admit, I've been a fan of imported hybrids from Japan, including Toyota and Honda. However, this might change after driving the latest Fusion.