The grille above may look like an ordinary Ford Fusion, but don't let appearances deceive you. We're told by our main spy man Chris Doane of the Priddy photographer pride that it's actually a prototype mule for the 2009 Ford Fusion Hybrid. The '09 electric sled from Ford will likely be powered by a 2.5-liter I4 HEV - similar to that of the Escape's setup and as we told you back in May, we're expecting to see a reveal at the LA Auto Show. But before this comes out for the 2009 model year, we're expecting new front and rear styling — including some new-look headlamps, a new three-bar grille that's even more boldly moving than before and some new tail lights. Speaking of that new look, our second series of shots gives us a first glimpse of the new-for-2009 Ford Fusion under some serious black cladding. Still, you're able to see that new and more Dave-like grille under the netting and camouflage. Power for the non-hybrid version is expected to come from an upgraded 2.5-liter I4 with a horsepower rating around 200hp, and an expected boost in fuel economy. Upgrades to the interior are also expected, but we don't have any pictures of that.
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