The Ford Fusion is one of the company’s first midsize sedans to use an Ecoboost engine. This new technology aims to offer an alternative to the hybrid fuel saving solutions. The 2014 Ford Fusion is available in 1.5-liter, 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter Ecoboost engine options, however, the focus of this review is 2014 Ford Fusion 2.0L Ecoboost. Let’s find out if it is worth the premium.
Engine and Performance
The base model comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injection engine which generates 240hp and a torque of 270 lb-ft to the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission (with optional manual shifting mode). You can also get an all-wheel drive for a higher price. The car is lightweight; even the trim with all-wheel drive is 3700 pounds, and feels sturdy and extremely stable to drive on all terrains. The only midsize sedan with a better drive than this one is perhaps the Mazda 6.
The star of the show is the Ecoboost technology by Ford. It allows an engine to deliver power and torque similar to those engines with larger displacement, while improving fuel efficiency by 20% and reducing greenhouse emissions by 15%. According to Ford, the Ecoboost is a viable alternative to hybrid engines, and the Ford Fusion leaves no reason for us to doubt that claim. With an EPA-estimated mileage of 22 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 31mpg on the highway, the Ford Fusion easily bests rivals like Honda Accord, Chrysler 200 and Mazda 6 in terms of fuel economy.
Interior and Exterior: Build quality and looks
By the first impression, the Fusion looks a well-built and sturdy, yet classy and elegant car. It oozes Ford from its design language, despite having Audi-inspired LED taillights and a Hexagon grille at the front. The slim headlights are well-balanced with the grille. Overall, the Ford Fusion is a serious looker.
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On the inside, the gadgetry on the dash is encased in an attractive metal ring, and offers both an LCD screen and enough hard buttons to easily navigate through all the features of the sedan. On this high-performance trim, you even get touchscreen panels to operate MyFord Touch’s voice, wheel and touch controls. The seats are comfortable and contemporary. The only complaint we have is the glossy black plastic used in the dash and the armrest panels on the doors.
Pros
- Beautiful and classy exterior, gives a sporty look without compromising elegance
- Extremely capable powertrain with a lightweight body
- Great fuel economy
- Offers more advanced gadgetry than any other midsize sedan
Cons
- Expensive for a midsize sedan, because it charges a premium for the great mileage
- Strictly average rear seat legroom
- Gloss black plastic on the door panel armrests and the dash is prone to fingerprints and swirls
Final Word
Whenever you’re in the market for a middle-size sedan, it’s only natural to have high expectations despite your limited budget. If you’re a tech geek on a budget, you’ll be looking for everything under the sun in your new car. The Ford Fusion delivers value for money, great looks and some serious performance to the average consumer. The starting price of $33,245 puts it toward the pricier end of its segment. Despite its few shortcomings, the positives are enough to tip the scales in its favor each time. With maintenance costs always bearable, the Fusion is one of the best cars currently available in its market segment.
Tags: 2014 Ford Fusion, 2014 Ford Fusion 2.0L Ecoboost, 2014 Fusion 2.0L Ecoboost, Ford Fusion 2.0L Ecoboost
