Ford is refreshing the look of the Ford Fusion sedan into a more aggressive, “sporty” look – which is fitting considering the company is bringing back the Fusion Sport, which is 325 hp closer to the Fusion ST we all want.
Apart from the cosmetic upgrade, the Fusion gets the new twin-turbo V6 powerplant, though all non-hybrid trim levels are still subject to the 8-speed auto. The 1.5 and 2.0 liter Ecoboost engines also get new dual-scroll turbochargers, with outputs of around 200 hp and 250 hp, respectively.
The new Fusion Sport gets some extra pampering, receiving custom dampening technology shared with the Lincoln MKZ, an anti-roll bar system, spring-rate calibrations, and wheel-mounted paddle shifters (which aren’t horrible; I have them in my Focus).
The interior of all Fusions will now come with a knob instead of a lever gear selector, and the updated SYNC 3 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and AndroidAuto capability.
The facelifted vanilla Fusions will go on sale in May of this year, with the Sport model showing up just a few months later in the summer.
Contact the author at justin@jalopnik.com or @WestbrookTweets.
DISCUSSION
I think I just found my next car, so long as the price is right around $40k all kitted out.
Here’s my situation: I need a car for real estate. Something that’s “nice” but not too flashy. Needs room for 4 adults. I drive a 2 door 6 speed GTI right now and hate the thought of giving it up, but the 2 door thing doesn’t work, and manual gearboxes aren’t necessarily great for passengers.
The Germans are nice, but a 5 series is too pricey and a 3 series is a bit too small inside. C-Class the way I want it is $50k+ and buying a stripped one would bug me. I’m also looking at the Infiniti Q50, which has KILLER lease deals, provided you stay away from the higher trims. Also briefly considered a Charger Scat Pack, because 485 HP. Have driven them extensively. Unfortunately the interior is pretty crap and at the end of the day, it’s a muscle car, not something you’d necessarily drive clients around in.
I like the Fusion, but I wanted at least the performance of the Q50. This might be perfect. Will have to wait and see how they lease. If Mazda steps up and makes a faster 6 though, I’m sold.