2017 Ford Fusion Ride & Drive

The 2017 Fusion is offered in four 4-cylinder powertrains: 1.5L EcoBoost, 2.0L EcoBoost, 2.0L Hybrid, 2.0L Energi (plug-in hybrid), and a new V-6 powertrain, 2.7L EcoBoost Sport, for the new Sport model. The Fusion Hybrid is now offered in all trim levels: S, SE, Titanium, and Platinum. The plug-in electric-hybrid Fusion Energi offers a 500-mile total range and travels 19 miles on electric power.

The top-of-the-line Platinum model features premium quilted leather that rivals luxury models. The Platinum trim also makes most options standard, including navigation, aluminum wheels and 20 driver assist technologies.

The instrument panel cluster display shows growing leaves to gauge eco driving. Fuel economy is improved slightly by selecting EcoMode, which eases the throttle under a full stab of the gas pedal and adds more regenerative braking in hybrid models.

The 2017 Fusion is available with either Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, which brings familiar technology from your phone to your car’s center console. These operating systems connect seamlessly to Ford’s updated Sync 3 infotainment system; CarPlay also allows access to Siri via voice commands.

Mid-cycle refreshes often come with pleasing driver enhancements, and the 2017 Fusion lineup is a good example: The front grille was widened while chrome accents and full LED lamps were added; improved suspension and sound dampening enhance ride quality; and start-stop is now standard on all models for improved fuel economy.

The 2017 model also stands out for its redesigned interior, which includes replacing the traditional gear shift knob with a rotary gear shifter and adding an electric parking brake below. Along with repositioning of the cup holders, the change instantly makes the old style anachronistic, improves front cockpit ergonomics, and adds 40% overall storage volume improvement. A push-button start is now standard.