2017 Ford Fusion Hybrid

While Toyota’s eight generation Camry once again includes a gasoline-electric Hybrid version, Ford continues to update their second gen, 2017 Fusion Hybrid as well. This year the front fascia and headlights have been tweaked to make a crisper impression on approach. 

In the hybrid, a 2-liter I-4 engine joins forces with an 88 kW electric motor energized by a 1.4 kWh lithium-ion battery. Combined they create 188-horsepower. When it’s time for the 2.0-liter to take over… it starts stirring with impressive confidence. They work with a nearly invisible Electronic Continuously Variable transmission that takes its orders from a console mounted rotary shifter. Steering proved very direct when we faced the curves in our path.

GREG CARLOSS: “The hybrid system has been working flawlessly. It shifts back and forth between battery power and gas power seamlessly. That’s really indicative of where we are with the technology right now. Most manufacturers have pretty much gotten down the hybrid system. Ford is no exception here, just a really nice system.”

JOHN DAVIS: The top tier Platinum trim provided our drivers with comfortable seats and a lot of soft surfaces that are well crafted. 

There are some compromises that come with the hybrid technology. Due to placement of the battery and extra gear, trunk space is down 4 cubic feet and the fuel tank shrinks by 2-and-a-half gallons compared to the gas-only Fusion. The hybrid also tips the scales by almost 200 pounds more. But none of that takes away from the substantial driving experience of this stylish front wheel drive family sedan.

The 2017 Ford Fusion Hybrid is on sale now, with prices starting just over $25,000.