New Sedans From Ford (Part 2) - Ford Fusion SE Hybrid, Ford Fusion SE

EcoBoost engines can’t keep up

In recent years, Ford has swapped the conventional four-cylinder and V6 engines in several models for smaller, lighter fours that use its EcoBoost technology that much-hyped design, which uses direct fuel injection and turbocharging, is billed as delivering competitive power along with impressive fuel economy. But we’ve found that cars with EcoBoost engines aren’t measuring up to the competition our Fusion are a good example. The gas mileage of our SE, equipped with an EcoBoost 1.6-liter four, is only 25 mpg overall, which is below the 26 mpg average in this class and far below the 30 and 31 mpg we got from our Honda Accord and Nissan Altima, respectively, even with their larger 2.4 – and 2.5-liter engines. Moreover, 0-to-60-mph acceleration is about a second slower than that of many peer models.

Similarly, at 22 mpg overall, our Titanium with a 2.0-liter four gets 4 mpg less than the larger 3.5-liter V6s in the Accord and Toyota Camry. And it’s a second slower to 60mph.

All of those competitive four-cylinder engines com standard. By contrast, compared with the Fusion’s standard 2.5-liter non-turbo four, you have to pay $795 additional to get the 1.6-liter EcoBoost option in the SE, and $2,250 for the 2.0-liter. Neither one matches the refinement and power delivery of better peer engines. In the Edge and Explorer SUVs, you can’t pair an EcoBoost four with all-wheel drive.

Ford Fusion SE Hybrid

The basic dash design, found on lower trim levels, includes large, easy-to-use knobs and buttons.

Unlike some hybrids, the fusion Hybrid has a normal-sized pass-through.

Ford Fusion SE

The trunk lid doesn’t open far enough, so it’s always in the way