As its name implies the Ford Fusion Hybrid is a gas-electric version of the the popular midsize family sedan. The hybrid model was first introduced when Ford nearly completely redesigned the Fusion in 2009.
Starting at $28,100, basic features include: 10-way power driver's seat, dual-zone climate control, automatic headlights, keyless entry, power windows, mirrors, and locks, capless refueling, traction control, and ABS. Priced $1000 above the Toyota Camry Hybrid, customers can select an optional GPS system, heated leather seats, and/or a Sony audio system.
The Fusion Hybrid, Ford's first hybrid passenger car, comes to market with technology designed to help drivers operate the car in a more efficient manner. Competitors include the Toyota Camry Hybrid and Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid.
The gas-only Fusion is covered separately in the Cars.com Research section-The Fusion Hybrid is based on the gas-powered Fusion that was redesigned for the 2010 model year. Exterior features include:
New blind spot mirrors for cars not equipped with electronic blind spot warning system-The seat fabric in the Fusion Hybrid is made from recycled materials; leather seats are optional.
The Fusion Hybrid is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor. Side curtain airbags
Unlike hybrids that have gone before, the 2011 Fusion Hybrid is rewarding to drive thanks to relatively brisk acceleration and crisp handling.
Of course, the fundamental appeal of a hybrid car still remains within this Ford sedan. The EPA estimates you'll get 41 mpg city and 36 mpg highway, which is considerably better than the numbers posted by other midsize hybrid sedans that compete with the Fusion Hybrid.
As with the regular Fusion, the hybrid also boasts a spacious, well-finished cabin loaded with thoughtful luxury features. Highlights of the latter include dual-zone automatic climate control, rear park assist and Ford's superb Sync multimedia voice control system. As hybrid sedans go, the 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid is certainly one of our favorites. The only other hybrid sedan we'd recommend checking out is the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid is a midsize sedan available in a single trim level. The Ford Fusion Hybrid utilizes a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine that produces 156 hp and 136 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy is an EPA-estimated 41 mpg city/36 mpg highway and 39 mpg combined.
The 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid comes standard with antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, front-seat side airbags, side curtain airbags, MyKey and rear parking sensors. A blind-spot warning system and rearview camera are optional. At the Edmunds test track, the Fusion Hybrid stopped from 60 mph in 126 feet, which is a short distance for a hybrid car on low-rolling-resistance tires.
The Fusion Hybrid also earned four stars for rear side protection. The Fusion Hybrid's high-quality cabin features abundant soft-touch materials, and the overall look is austere but attractive. The "Fusion Hybrid" gets a distinctive gauge cluster dubbed SmartGauge, featuring a pair of color display screens flanking a traditional speedometer. Interior storage space is adequate, although trunk capacity is compromised by the car's battery pack, which is typical of hybrid sedans.
Other than the Altima Hybrid (which is only sold in 11 states) and the new Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, the 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid is the most engaging hybrid sedan to drive; it's a car, not just a transportation pod.
