2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid Review

Name: 2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid Review
Brand: Ford
Price: 10790 USD

2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid Titanium Sedan Exterior Shown

2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid SE Sedan Exterior

2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid Titanium Sedan Rear Badge

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Edmunds' Expert Review

byCameron Rogers^{Manager, News
Cameron Rogers has worked in the automotive industry since 2013. He has tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Today, he leads the news team in developing cutting-edge news articles, opinion pieces and sneak peeks at upcoming vehicles. Favorite cars that he's driven during his tenure at Edmunds include the 991-era Porsche 911 Turbo S, Rolls-Royce Ghost and several generations of Honda Odyssey (really).}

Pros

Excellent Sync 3 infotainment system
Rear seats can fold down to increase cargo space
Platinum trim's interior quality surpasses that of some luxury cars
Interior remains quiet at highway speeds

Cons

Fuel economy figures aren't as high as rival hybrid sedans
Sleek roofline reduces rear visibility and headroom
Lurches forward unpleasantly when the gas engine kicks on

What’s new

The Ford Fusion Hybrid is unchanged for 2018.

Vehicle overview

Most mainstream automakers now offer hybrid versions of their midsize sedans. That means there's plenty of choices, but it can also make it hard to figure out which hybrid is going to be best for you. Ford might just have what you're looking for with its 2018 Fusion Hybrid. We like the standard Fusion for its sharp looks, surprisingly adept handling, spacious trunk and excellent Sync 3 infotainment system. These positive traits carry over to the hybrid version as well (yep, even the handling and cargo capacity) to give it an edge over some rivals.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid S 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.36 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio

$100/mo

$176/mo

Avg. Midsize Car

Calculate my fuel costs

A well-sorted chassis and suspension setup prevent the Fusion from rolling around too much when the road gets twisty. But even if mountain roads aren't part of your normal commute, you'll still appreciate the Fusion's space-efficient interior and trunk. As with other hybrid sedans, the Fusion's battery pack occupies a good deal of the trunk's real estate. However, its low profile means you can still lower the rear seats and access the trunk, increasing usable storage space. This is a rare feature in this class.

Interior materials are also consistently high across the trim levels. In the range-topping Fusion Platinum version, the quilted leather upholstery might make you think you're riding in a luxury car. There are compromises, of course. The Fusion Hybrid isn't the most fuel-efficient vehicle in its class — it gets 42 mpg combined, compared to 48 mpg in the Accord Hybrid — and it isn't the quickest. But overall we think the Fusion's practicality and comfortable and well-trimmed cabin far outweigh its performance deficiencies.

Notably, we picked the 2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid as one of Edmunds' Best Hybrid Cars for this year.

Edmunds' Expert Rating

7.9 / 10

With roomy cabins and powertrains that are far more fuel-efficient than their standard counterparts, hybrid sedans are quite compelling. Among them, the 2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid is one of our favorites. An affordable starting price and attractive styling help set it apart from the pack.

Trim tested

Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our Full Test of the 2017 Ford Fusion Hybrid Platinum (2.0L inline-4 hybrid | CVT automatic | FWD).

NOTE: Since this test was conducted, the current Fusion hasn't received significant revisions. Our findings remain applicable to this year's model.

Scorecard

Overall	7.9 / 10
Driving	7.0
Comfort	8.0
Interior	8.0
Utility	8.0
Technology	8.5

Driving

7.0

As expected, the Fusion Hybrid isn't speedy. But unlike other hybrids, the car feels admirably coordinated and willing when the road starts to turn and twist. It could be even better, but lifeless steering feel brings down our rating.

Acceleration

6.5

Typical of many hybrid family sedans, the Fusion feels timid. You'll likely be pressing the gas pedal more than expected when getting up to passing speed on the highway or climbing a grade. In our acceleration test, it went from zero to 60 mph time in 9 seconds, which is average for the segment.

Braking

7.0

The brakes don't have much initial bite, which makes it hard to consistently apply the correct amount of pedal pressure to stop smoothly. But the switchover between regenerative braking and mechanical braking is smooth. Our panic-stop test from 60 mph took 123 feet, just slightly longer than average.

Steering

6.0

Steering effort is quite light, whether you're circulating through a parking lot or cruising at highway speeds. And there isn't much feel or feedback, so it's never clear how hard the tires are working. We found ourselves making frequent tiny corrections to maintain our desired path.

Handling

8.0

The Fusion Hybrid feels composed and stable, and it doesn't roll much in corners. And despite lackluster steering feedback, it responds eagerly to steering inputs. Fuel-saving tires don't offer a ton of grip, but there's still enough to maintain a steady pace on your favorite winding road.

Drivability

7.0

The Fusion Hybrid is easy to drive around town, although the gas and brake pedals don't feel especially responsive. It leaves from stops under smooth EV power but lurches forward when the gas engine kicks on a moment later. Adaptive cruise is great at keeping a set speed, even on steep downgrades.

Comfort

8.0

We could spend all day in a Fusion Hybrid. It has a supple ride, and the seats, particularly the cloth ones, are supportive and comfy. The hybrid powertrain is admirably smooth and quiet, though it does get loud when you floor it. Comes standard with an effective automatic climate control system.

Seat comfort

8.0

The standard cloth seats are nicely padded and offer a great balance of support and comfort that lasts for hours. But we found it harder to be comfortable in the optional leather seats, which are taut and stiffer. The front headrests are adjustable; outboard rear seats are set at a pleasant angle.

Ride comfort

7.5

The Fusion Hybrid's suspension is perhaps a little too softly tuned, and it can feel a little floaty when you drive over certain dips in the road. Otherwise, the suspension soaks up road bumps with ease and does a good job of isolating passengers from most harsh impacts.

Noise & vibration

8.5

The Fusion's double-pane side windows do an excellent job of minimizing tire and wind noise at high speeds. There's barely a whisper of each. Hybrid powertrain is silent at idle and in EV mode. Gas engine is admirably quiet when cruising but can sound coarse and raspy under maximum acceleration.

Climate control

8.5

Standard dual-zone climate control works well and keeps the cabin cool despite hot summer temps outside. Backseat passengers have air vents of their own. The Platinum comes with a heated steering wheel and front-seat ventilation, though the latter doesn't feel particularly effective.

Interior

8.0

Almost everyone should find the Fusion's interior pleasant and accommodating. It's easy to get in and out of, the driving position is highly adjustable, and the cabin offers a generous amount of space. Tall passengers might take issue with the sloping rear roofline when getting into the backseat.

Ease of use

7.5

The Hybrid's rotary transmission shifter takes getting used to. But most other cabin controls are nicely grouped and easy to operate at a glance. Steering wheel buttons make it easy to sort through the comprehensive dashboard data screen.

Getting in/getting out

8.0

Most occupants will find it easy to climb in and out of the Fusion thanks to wide-opening doors, generous door openings, and seats that are set at an inviting height. The only exception is the sloping rear roofline, which might prompt those over 6 feet tall to duck as they slide into the backseat.

Driving position

8.5

The tilt-and-telescoping wheel and the driver's seat have a generous adjustment range. Both the cloth and leather seats offer height adjustments, but we've found that the power mechanism for the leather seats doesn't power down as low as in cloth-upholstered seats.

Roominess

8.5

The Fusion feels spacious, and its front and rear seats provide above-average levels of head-, leg- and hiproom. Rear headroom is limited by the sloping rear roofline, but only those over 6 feet tall should notice. The optional sunroof takes a bite out of headroom.

Visibility

7.5

Outward visibility is good despite fairly thick windshield pillars. The rear blind spot is larger than average due to a broad rear roof pillar and smaller than average rear quarter window. A rearview camera is standard, and parking sensors are optional, which is typical of this segment.

Quality

9.0

With quilted leather seat upholstery, leather dashboard coverings and a sea of stitching throughout, the Fusion Hybrid Platinum's interior is jaw-dropping and nearly perfect. Rivals pale in comparison. The only flaw in our tester was a loose trim piece that buzzed with heavy bass from the speakers.

Utility

8.0

Unique among hybrid sedans, the Fusion Hybrid has its trunk-mounted battery pack mounted low enough that a folding backseat and trunk pass-through are possible, which makes up for its modest nominal trunk volume. Lots of nice-size storage compartments and thoughtful nooks inside the cabin.

Small-item storage

8.5

Storage spaces include a large bin under the front armrest and a spacious tray under the center console. Both front and rear center armrests have two cupholders, and there's one in each of the wide door pockets. None will hold anything larger than an average-size water bottle or coffee cup.

Cargo space

8.0

The Fusion Hybrid offers 12 cubic feet of trunk space, which is sufficient but less than some hybrid competitors. But the Fusion does have rear seats that can be folded down to increase cargo capacity. Most other hybrid sedans don't have this feature.

Child safety seat accommodation

7.0

Each of the outboard rear seats is flanked by a pair of LATCH hooks. But they are set deep into the gap between the cushion and backrest, and the stiffness of our car's leather seats made them hard to access. A seat can be mounted in the center because the rear shelf has three anchors.

Technology

8.5

With the new Sync 3 infotainment system and the advent of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the Ford Fusion is one of the more approachable, tech-friendly vehicles on the market. The Fusion offers many safety-related driver aids, and you don't have to buy the most expensive trim level to get them.

Audio & navigation

7.5

Sync 3 and its onboard navigation are much better than the old MyFord Touch system. Like a smartphone, Sync 3 has big virtual buttons and the ability to swipe through menus. The satellite radio signal often dropped, though, likely due to a weak antenna, and max-volume audio quality isn't great.

Smartphone integration

9.0

All Fusions with Sync 3 have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality and a second USB port. If you don't utilize these systems, you can still pair your phone the old-fashioned way via Bluetooth, which is a nice option to have.

Driver aids

8.5

The Fusion Hybrid can be equipped with the latest active safety systems, including adaptive cruise control, emergency braking and front/rear parking sensors. The best thing: You don't have to order the expensive Titanium or Platinum trim to get these features. They are optional on the midlevel SE.

Voice control

9.0

As always, Ford's voice controls, now via Sync 3, are excellent. Natural language and simple commands do wonders to play music, change radio stations, input navigation destinations or place calls. And you have the option to hold the voice button longer to access Siri on your paired smartphone.

2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid models

The 2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid midsize sedan is available in four trims. Its base S trim includes basic creature comforts like dual-zone automatic climate control, cruise control and a rearview camera. We recommend starting with the next-level SE; the price bump is justified by the added features and expanded list of optional features. Keep piling options onto the SE, and you might actually find it economical to upgrade to the Titanium, as it includes several of the SE's option packages. If you want the absolute best, the Platinum includes nearly every feature the Fusion Hybrid offers.

Like every Ford Fusion Hybrid, the base S trim is front-wheel drive and powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine matched to an electric motor (188 total system horsepower). Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, LED taillights, remote locking and unlocking, a rearview camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear air vents, a height-adjustable driver seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, two configurable driver information displays, a 60/40-split fold-down rear seat, audio and phone voice commands (Sync), Bluetooth connectivity, a 4.2-inch central display screen, smartphone app integration, and a nine-speaker sound system with a CD player and a USB port.

Stepping up to the SE adds exterior LED accent lights, exterior keypad entry, a digital compass, an eight-way power driver seat (with power lumbar adjustment), a six-way power passenger seat, a rear-seat center armrest and satellite radio.

A few option packages are available for the SE. The Appearance package (Equipment Group 601A) adds 18-inch wheels, a rear spoiler, foglights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and contrasting interior stitching. The Luxury package (Equipment Group 602A) includes LED headlights, upgraded taillights, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, heated mirrors, chrome exterior trim, keyless entry and ignition, remote engine start, leather upholstery, heated front seats and driver-seat memory settings. Opting for the SE Technology package equips the SE with rear parking sensors, the Sync 3 infotainment interface, an 8-inch touchscreen, enhanced voice controls, an 11-speaker audio system, a 110-volt power outlet, a second USB port, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The Titanium gets you the SE's optional features listed above as standard, as well as LED foglights, sport front seats, eight-way power adjustment for the passenger seat, ambient lighting and an upgraded Sony 12-speaker audio system with HD radio.

The SE (with Technology and Luxury packages selected) and Titanium offer the available Luxury Driver Assist package, which includes automatic wipers, automatic high-beam control, an auto-dimming driver mirror, a heated steering wheel, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning and intervention. With the Driver's Assist package selected, the SE and Titanium can also be equipped with adaptive cruise control with pedestrian detection, a collision mitigation system and an automated parallel- and perpendicular-parking system.

A sunroof and a navigation system are optional for both the SE and Titanium, and the Titanium can be had with ventilated front seats.

Springing for the top-of-the-line Platinum gets you everything listed above as standard, along with a power-adjustable steering wheel, premium floor mats, upgraded leather upholstery and extended leather coverings.

All trim levels can be equipped with inflatable rear seat belts.

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid.

5 (59%)

4 (23%)

3 (10%)

2 (3%)

1 (5%)

4.3

39 reviews

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Most helpful consumer reviews

Luxury hybrid for $1000's less

David M., 05/09/2017

2017 Ford Fusion Hybrid Platinum 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)

My previous car was a 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid SE with safety options. In 4 year, I put over 80K miles on that car, averaging 44mpg over the entire period of ownership. It was practically a no-brainer when it came time to replace it, to get another Fusion Hybrid. Before making the purchase, I compared it to the Accord Hybrid, Sonata Hybrid, Malibu Hybrid and Camry Hybrid. After all of the … shopping, there was no question in my mind which vehicle to buy - the Fusion Hybrid. I didn't care for the blind spot camera system in the Accord; the Sonata's fuel economy was nowhere near as good as the Fusion; the build quality and the styling of the Malibu was far below the other cars tested; and the interior of the Camry was noticeably poor compared to the Fusion. This year (2017), Ford has added the Platinum trim. This trim is all-inclusive - the only options available on this vehicle were inflatable rear seatbelts, upgraded trunk mats, and I believe optional rims. Standard equipment included premium leather quilted seats, navigation, blind spot monitors, self-parking (parallel AND vertical spaces), leather wrapped steering wheel and leather dashboard, lane departure system, rear camera, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go (a fantastic feature if you drive in traffic!), Apple Play, spoiler, full LED headlights and taillights, and the list goes on. This is all for approximately $37K before Ford incentives and rebates. In addition, I got 0% financing, and FULL KBB value on the trade-in on my 2013 with 80K miles! I also drove this car back-to-back with a Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, and there was little difference in the quality of the ride between them, but I found the interior of the Fusion to be superior. The ride is quiet and controlled, there is little road noise, and the handling is outstanding. Back seats could be a little larger, but they are fine for anyone less than about 6' or so. Acceleration is fine under all situations except for maybe stoplight drag racing. But if you want to drive like that, you'd be better off getting the Fusion V-6 Sport instead. I have put about 7,500 miles on the car since Dec 2016, and so far am averaging 42mpg, a little below my 2013, but still outstanding. If you are looking for a luxurious, comfortable, reliable and economical sedan with exceptional styling, look no further than the 2017 Fusion Hybrid Platinum. *** UPDATE TO REVIEW *** 11/12/2017 *** My 2017 Fusion Hybrid developed a serious issue with the electrical system. The car kept going into “Deep Sleep Mode”, usually occurring if the car is left idle for more than 14 days. Each occurrence required roadside assistance to come and jump start the vehicle. I was just lucky it never happened on a day when I had an appointment. In late July, after the 6th time the car went into Deep Sleep, I initiated a Lemon Law claim with Ford, who reviewed my repair record, and sent a hybrid specialist to evaluate my vehicle. They provided me with a free rental for the eight weeks that it took to process my claim. The second week of September, I took possession of a brand new Platinum Hybrid, the exact same model as the one it replaced. Every cent I paid towards the original was applied, and my 0% APR loan continued with the balance carried over. Any car can fail, we all stand the chance of getting a “lemon”, but how the manufacturer responds is what makes the difference for me. Ford acted honorably, and treated me with respect throughout the process. The replacement vehicle has about 8500 trouble free miles so far, I am maintaining about 43.5 mpg, but I believe this will improve as the miles accumulate. When I am ready to replace this vehicle, Ford will remain at the top of my list, not only because of the vehicle itself, but because of the company behind the vehicle.

Luxury Sleeper

DONALD GEEZE, 10/23/2016

2017 Ford Fusion Hybrid Platinum 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)

It was difficult to wrap my mind around a $41K MSRP for a Ford Fusion, even after $3K in discounts. Another $4K in Federal tax write-off for it being a plug-in hydrid brought the actual price down to Earth. Cross-shopped this against the Lexus ES hybrid, Lincoln MKZ hybrid, Accord Hybrid and Avalon Hybrid. The Chevy Volt and Malibu hybrids were eliminated early because they lacked …

Fantastic achievement

Ksprague , 05/21/2019

2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)

We bought a 2018 fusion hybrid with 26k miles from Carvana. The car had been with one of the big rental companies according to car fax. I bought this site I seen and couldn’t be happier. I’ve owned Audi A4’s, Ford SHO, and jaguars and the fusion hybrid puts them all to shame. It’s a spectacular car ... I don’t know why more people aren’t raving about it. It has power to spare, is silent …

Great car... did i get a lemon?

Lyall Barbour, 08/22/2017

2017 Ford Fusion Hybrid SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)

Car is living up to the articles, reviews, hybrid abilities. Ride is nice, the switching between motor and engine is smooth. Regenerative brakes, engine cutoff at stop lights, and other energy saving features work fine. Where our experience goes awry has been with the actual problems with the computer and also minor quality issues. First, about a month after owning it, the car would …

We have a limited number of reviews for the 2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid, so we've included reviews for other years of the Fusion Hybrid since its last redesign.

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2018 Fusion Hybrid Highlights

Trim:

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$25,390
Engine Type	Hybrid
Combined MPG	42 MPG
Cost to Drive	$100/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	12.0 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

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Safety

Our experts like the Fusion Hybrid models:

Reverse Sensing System: Alerts you to possible objects behind you when you're backing up in the Fusion Hybrid.
Blind Spot Information System: Illuminates a light on the left or right mirror if a vehicle is detected in the Fusion Hybrid's blind spot on that side.
Lane Keeping System: Vibrates the steering wheel if the Ford Fusion begins to drift outside its lane. Also moves the steering wheel to guide the car back.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall4 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger3 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover10.9%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good