Best 2016 Ford Fusion Review

The Fusion's standard four-cylinder engine is underpowered, according to critics, but they like that the Fusion's two optional turbocharged four-cylinder engines provide better acceleration and decent fuel economy. They note that the Fusion's standard six-speed automatic transmission provides seamless, nicely timed gear changes.

According to the EPA, the base 2016 Ford Fusion gets 22/34 mpg city/highway, which is fairly low for an affordable midsize car. Front wheel-wheel drive is standard on the Fusion. All-wheel drive is available. The Ford Fusion has agile handling, test drivers say, with strong brakes and accurate steering.

Interior Summary 

Auto writers report that the 2016 Ford Fusion has a contemporary interior, with sleek lines and soft-touch materials. They say the seating is comfortable and spacious in both rows, and that the cabin is quiet. Visibility is good to the front and sides, according to reviewers, but poor to the rear. Some critics like the available infotainment system's numerous functions and voice commands, but others say it takes time to learn and can be slow to respond. Trunk space is good for the class.

Standard features in the 2016 Fusion include a USB port, voice-controlled Sync with Bluetooth, a rearview camera and MyKey, which allows owners to set vehicle speed and audio volume limits for other drivers. Available features include HD Radio, dual-zone automatic climate control, a heated steering wheel, navigation, inflatable rear seat belts, a 12-speaker Sony audio system, satellite radio, the MyFord Touch infotainment system with an 8-inch LCD touch screen, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, park assist, lane keep assist, forward collision alert, leather seats and heated and cooled front seats.

• Whether you want a sporty family car with Euro-sharp looks, or just a practical and affordable way to haul around five people, the 2016 Ford Fusion is a hard car to dislike." -
• "With solid power, excellent fuel economy, distinctive styling and a huge array of tech features, the 2016 Ford Fusion is a great choice for a midsize sedan." 
• "… the Fusion is an all-out assault on the midsize sedan segment. It's Ford's honest best shot at taking down Camry and Accord, and we won't be surprised if the Fusion does just that." --
• "When you combine the beautiful appearance, smart interior and engaging driving experience with the fuel efficiency and practicality Ford's achieved, the Fusion stands tall as the best car in class. No doubt it is a winner and one that will receive universal praise. … Simply put, if you are in the market for a midsize sedan and you don't buy the Fusion, you are an idiot. And I judge you. I judge you harshly." -- 

Other Cars to Consider

Ford Fusion vs. Mazda Mazda6: Test drivers report that the Mazda6's base engine delivers plenty of power, but unlike the Fusion it doesn't have any optional engines. The Mazda6 gets much better fuel economy estimates than the Fusion. Reviewers say the Mazda6 is one of the most agile and fun-to-drive cars in the class, with communicative steering and powerful brakes. The Fusion is available with all-wheel drive; the Mazda6 is not. The Mazda6's infotainment and audio controls are conveniently located, though critics find the navigation system cumbersome to use. The Mazda6 offers less cargo room in the trunk than the Fusion.

Ford Fusion vs. Hyundai Sonata: The Hyundai Sonata has a quiet, high-end interior, according to reviewers, and its seats in front and back are spacious. Test drivers praise the Sonata's easy-to-use infotainment system and intuitive control layout. Additionally, the Sonata comes with Android Auto smartphone integration, while the Fusion does not. While critics say the Sonata's base engine is only decently powerful, they find that both available turbocharged engines are much stronger. The Sonata's base engine and one of the available turbocharged engines each earn higher fuel economy estimates than the Fusion's base engine. Test drivers report the Sonata's suspension is tuned more for comfort than agility, though its steering is precise.

Details: 2016 Ford Fusion

The 2016 Ford Fusion is a midsize sedan. It is available in three trims: S, SE and Titanium. The Fusion comes standard with seating for five (two in the front row and three in the second row).

S and SE models come with a 175-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. A 181-horsepower, turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine is available in SE models, while a 231-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder is standard in Titanium models and optional in SE models. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard in S and SE models and Titanium models come with an automatic transmission (CVT). All models come standard with front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive is available with SE and Titanium models.

The Ford Fusion was last redesigned for the 2013 model year and sees no major changes for 2016. As a result, this overview uses applicable research and reviews from the 2013 through 2016 model years.