2020 Ford Fusion
2020 Ford Fusion Review
- Quiet interior with an easy-to-use control layout and quality materials
- Optional all-wheel drive for cold-weather climates
- Adept combination of sharp handling and a composed ride
- Standard tech interface is more frustrating to use than some rivals' systems
- Underwhelming acceleration from base engine
- Real-world fuel economy doesn't always match EPA estimates
- V6 Sport trim has been discontinued
- Paddle shifters no longer available on 1.5-liter engine
- Part of the second Fusion generation introduced for 2013
The current-generation Ford Fusion has been around for the better part of a decade, making its debut back in 2013. And this year's model, the 2020 Fusion, might be the last one. Ford has announced that it is only going to make trucks and SUVs in the future, so passenger cars such as the Fusion are on the road to extinction. Thankfully, though, that doesn't mean the 2020 Fusion is a lame-duck sedan without value.
On the contrary, despite its age and looming demise, the Fusion is an appealing four-door that offers plenty of modern safety and technology features. For 2020, the Fusion loses one of its engine options, the turbocharged V6 Sport model, but the remaining turbocharged 1.5-liter engine and a turbocharged 2.0-liter picks are worthwhile. The Fusion is also still available with all-wheel drive, and it comes standard with safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, lane keeping assist and forward collision mitigation.
On the road, the Fusion earns points for its quiet and roomy interior, pleasing balance of handling and ride comfort, and big trunk. Still, it'll be worth your time to check out a few rival sedans. The Honda Accord and the Mazda 6 are more refined and enjoyable to drive, for instance, while the Hyundai Sonata and the Kia Optima deliver a little more value. Overall, the 2020 Ford Fusion, long in the tooth as it may be, is a solid pick for a midsize sedan.
Our verdict | |
The Ford Fusion was a standout when it was first introduced and is still an above-average option for a midsize family sedan. However, competitors have improved over the years and now surpass the Fusion in a few key areas. | |
How does the Fusion drive? | |
The Fusion isn't as dynamically impressive as it once was, but it's still a likable car. In Edmunds performance testing, the 1.5L Fusion went 0-60 mph in 8.9 seconds, which is a little bit slower than average. The brake pedal, though, inspires confidence. It's easy to moduate in traffic and provides shorter-than-average emergency stopping distances. The Fusion feels solid as you drive it around turns. The suspension minimizes body roll, and it isn't upset if you drive over a bump midcorner. Curvy mountain roads pose little drama. The Fusion's steering wheel is nicely weighted, and it returns to center willingly. Though low-speed parking is a breeze, there's almost no feeling of connection to the road through the steering during spirited driving. | |
How comfortable is the Fusion? | |
Though the Fusion has some minor issues with comfort, they're relatively easy to forgive. The car feels planted in most scenarios, and it isn't upset by most small imperfections in the road. Out on the highway, the ride can feel a bit floaty without passengers or cargo but not to the degree that we'd call it bouncy. Road noise is kept to a minimum, and the front seats are a particularly nice place to sit, even for hours at a time. The automatic climate control system performs adequately in hot weather, but the climate control buttons are small and laid out in a somewhat unconventional way. | |
How’s the interior? | |
Almost everyone should find the Fusion's interior to be pleasant and accommodating. The cabin features a rotary transmission shifter that takes some getting used to, but most cabin controls are nicely grouped and easy to operate at a glance, even though a few of the buttons are on the small side. For most passengers, it's easy to get in and out of the Fusion. (Taller passengers may take issue with the sloping rear roofline.) The driving position is nicely adjustable. Outward visibility is good despite fairly thick windshield pillars, but the rear blind spot is larger than average due to a broad rear roof pillar and a smaller-than-average rear quarter window. | |
How’s the tech? | |
With the available Sync 3 infotainment system and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, the Ford Fusion is one of the more tech-friendly vehicles on the market. It's easy to connect devices, execute voice commands, or navigate to a destination without a steep learning curve. Unfortunately, the basic audio systems are underwhelming with lower-than-average audio quality. Voice controls, however, via Sync 3, are excellent. They take natural language and simple commands to perform all sorts of things such as changing radio stations and inputting navigation destinations. | |
How’s the storage? | |
A wide trunk opening with a low liftover height and standard 60/40-split folding rear seats give you easy access to the Fusion's large trunk. Interior 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. | |
How economical is the Fusion? | |
Our test car had the 1.5-liter engine, which the EPA says gets 27 mpg in combined driving. That's a little below average. But it does seem to be a realistic number. We achieved 29.5 mpg on our 115-mile mixed-driving evaluation loop and bested the highway economy rating on one of the fill-ups. | |
Is the Fusion a good value? | |
Though the Fusion can be a decent deal depending on how you equip it, there are competitors that will give you more bang for your buck. There were no significant squeaks or rattles in our test car, but several panels on the inside and exterior were slightly misaligned. The higher trim levels help the Fusion feel less like a rental. Ford's warranty is average for the segment, with basic coverage for three years/36,000 miles and powertrain coverage for five years/60,000 miles. Ford also offers complimentary roadside assistance for five years/60,000 miles, which is also average. | |
Wildcard | |
Though it's a bit better-looking and slightly more entertaining to drive than some sedans in the class, the Fusion isn't exactly a pulse-raiser. However, it's an attractive sedan with some personality, which might make it more appealing than some of the more function-over-form options out there. | |
Which Fusion does Edmunds recommend?
Ford Fusion models
The 2020 Ford Fusion is a five-passenger midsize sedan available in four trim levels: S, SE, SEL and Titanium. The hybrid and plug-in hybrid (known as the Fusion Energi) are reviewed separately.
2020 Ford Fusion pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Sponsored cars related to the Fusion
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2020 Ford Fusion.
Trending topics in reviews
- appearance
- handling & steering
- interior
- ride quality
- engine
- maintenance & parts
- oil
- fuel efficiency
- spaciousness
- comfort
- reliability & manufacturing quality
Most helpful consumer reviews
Is a GDI engine, they are notorious buildup carbon deposits in the intake valves, like any other GDI (Gas Direct Injection) engines including high end brands and models, If you use generic gas, dont change your oil in time or dont use quality engine oil you going to be helping to expedite the carbon formation process, this going to cause misfires, check engine light, bad MPG, loss of power and error codes. Is not Ford is the nature how GDI engines works, im saying all this for let you know this engines need basic maintenance in time, dont blame later on the car or manufacture. My car runs very well, come with a lot of mid/high end features, The reason why i dont give to it 5 starts is the MPG is not that good being a 1.5 Liters it gives me 23MPG in city witch is the same as a V6 engine. Also the tail is not very stable in raining days, it slides easy. Overall I like more than other mid size sedans in the market. My car is 2020 I will need more time for give a review over time and reliability. So far I like it, works fine.
very happy with the Fusion that Brandon was able to locate for me with some of the the trim I was looking for. Looking forward to taking a small get away when we are not having to stay home.
Before this car I had a 2012 fusion, and all anyone wanted to do is set stuff on the deck lid and place their biscuits on the hood while waiting for me. Thankyou Ford for making that slightly less achievable. I like the new fuel door, definitely a better design than the 2012 model that had a capless system, but the fuel door would never seal at all. The headlights look easier to replace or work on. The engine compartment looks like it has a fair amount of space to work in if you plan on keeping it long enough. It looks like the computer is in the engine bay which seems a bit cringe, but it looks far enough away from the engine that it couldn't hurt. The battery is partially under the rain gutter, but it looks easy enough to slide out and replace when it comes down to it. The suspension is great as always. This car also stops on a dime which is great. The trunk compartment is cavernous; it looks like you could fit 2-4 people back there. The back seat is comfortable to sit in; it has sufficient leg room unless there's a tall person sitting up front. The only tradeoff is floor mats. Generic floor mats do not fit at all, find good floor mats for this car and keep them forever.
Kzoo Kyle made his promise on getting me outta my 2008 Jeep Wrangler and into a 2020 fusion. I’m very pleased with how Kyle does business and does it the right way. Was about helping a friend out and not trying to make a buck. Definitely recommend Kyle. My dad and mom will be buying their new car from him.
2020 Ford Fusion videos
Read Description
NOTE: This video is about the 2017 Ford Fusion, but since the 2020 Ford Fusion is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.
Looking for a midsize sedan with solid power, excellent fuel economy, distinctive styling and a wide array of tech features? The 2017 Ford Fusion might be a good match. Here's a quick rundown of what we like, what we don't and the bottom line from the Edmunds editors.
MARK TAKAHASHI: I'm editor Mark Takahashi. And here's an Edmunds Expert Rundown of the 2017 Ford Fusion. The current Fusion has been around for a while and remains a strong choice. But the competition is heating up. The turbocharged four-cylinder engine choices deliver plenty of power while returning good fuel efficiency. The powerful turbo V6 represent the hot rod fusion, but at the expense of fuel economy. We like the exterior styling. But that sloping rear roof line does cut down on visibility and back seat headroom. Trunk space is still decent for the class though. Interior quality is comparable to other sedans. And the overall design is pleasant with angular accents. Mid-range trims look even more modern with a SYNC 3 system that eliminates some of the physical buttons. As far as operation goes, SYNC 3 is one of the better infotainment systems, a vast improvement over the previous MyFord Touch miss. The bottom line is the Ford Fusion holds its own against the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Mazda 6 thanks to its variety and models and engines. But it comes up a little short when it comes to rear seat room.
Features & Specs
| SE 4dr Sedan 1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $24,500 |
| MPG | 23 city / 34 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 181 hp @ 6000 rpm |
| S 4dr Sedan 2.5L 4cyl 6A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $23,170 |
| MPG | 21 city / 31 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 173 hp @ 6000 rpm |
| SE 4dr Sedan AWD 2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $27,885 |
| MPG | N/A city / N/A hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 245 hp @ 5500 rpm |
| SEL 4dr Sedan 1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $28,690 |
| MPG | 23 city / 34 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 181 hp @ 6000 rpm |
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Fusion safety features:
- Ford's MyKey
- Uses multiple keys to set parameters for secondary drivers, such as teens and valets.
- Lane Keeping System
- Makes minor corrections to steering when the car senses you are drifting out of your lane.
- Pre-Collision Assist
- Warns the driver of an imminent front collision. Can automatically apply the brakes as well. It's standard on all Fusions.
NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
| Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall | 4 / 5 |
| Driver | 5 / 5 |
| Passenger | 3 / 5 |
| Side Crash Rating | Rating |
| Overall | 5 / 5 |
| Side Barrier Rating | Rating |
| Overall | 5 / 5 |
| Driver | 5 / 5 |
| Passenger | 5 / 5 |
| Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings | Rating |
| Front Seat | 5 / 5 |
| Back Seat | 5 / 5 |
| Rollover | Rating |
| Rollover | 4 / 5 |
| Dynamic Test Result | No Tip |
| Risk Of Rollover | 10.9% |
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
| Side Impact Test | Good |
|---|---|
| Roof Strength Test | Good |
| Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint | Good |
| IIHS Small Overlap Front Test | Not Tested |
| Moderate Overlap Front Test | Good |
Ford Fusion vs. the competition
Ford Fusion vs. Honda Accord
The redesigned Honda Accord leaped to the front of the class when it was redesigned in 2018, and it has stayed there ever since. It has a spacious and classy interior, and it's one of the most comfortable sedans for the money. On top of all that, the Accord is thoroughly enjoyable to drive, with sporty handling and strong acceleration that isn't normally associated with a family sedan. Against the Accord, the Fusion has an uphill battle. Read Edmunds' long-term road test of the Honda Accord.
Ford Fusion vs. Kia Stinger
One of our favorite performance-oriented sedans, the Kia Stinger offers a different approach to everyday family motoring than the Fusion. The Stinger has almost-luxury levels of interior quality and lots of standard and optional safety equipment, but it is pricey when you compare it to the Fusion. For drivers interested in sheer performance, though, it'll definitely be worth the added cost. Read Edmunds' long-term road test of the Kia Stinger.
Ford Fusion vs. Mazda 6
If midsize sedans were a big, happy family, the Mazda 6 would be the well-groomed elder child who always shows up wearing dry-cleaned clothes and well-shined shoes. A refined selection in the midsize sedan segment, the Mazda 6 has a luxury feel without the luxury price. It also has impressive handling and steering for the segment. This Mazda is one of the better picks you'll find for a midsize sedan.
FAQ
Is the Ford Fusion a good car?
What's new in the 2020 Ford Fusion?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2020 Ford Fusion:
- V6 Sport trim has been discontinued
- Paddle shifters no longer available on 1.5-liter engine
- Part of the second Fusion generation introduced for 2013
Is the Ford Fusion reliable?
Is the 2020 Ford Fusion a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2020 Ford Fusion?
The least-expensive 2020 Ford Fusion is the 2020 Ford Fusion S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 6A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $23,170.
Other versions include:
- SE 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $24,500
- S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $23,170
- SE 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $27,885
- SEL 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $28,690
- Titanium 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $36,450
- Titanium 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $34,450
What are the different models of Ford Fusion?
More about the 2020 Ford Fusion
2020 Ford Fusion Overview
The 2020 Ford Fusion is offered in the following submodels: Fusion Sedan. Available styles include SE 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 6A), SE 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A), SEL 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), Titanium 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A), and Titanium 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A).
What do people think of the 2020 Ford Fusion?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2020 Ford Fusion and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2020 Fusion 4.4 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2020 Fusion.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2020 Ford Fusion and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2020 Fusion featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2020 Ford Fusion?
2020 Ford Fusion S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
The 2020 Ford Fusion S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $25,325. The average price paid for a new 2020 Ford Fusion S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 6A) is trending $5,293 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $5,293 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $20,032.
The average savings for the 2020 Ford Fusion S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 6A) is 20.9% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 23 2020 Ford Fusion S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2020 Ford Fusion SE 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2020 Ford Fusion SE 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $26,625. The average price paid for a new 2020 Ford Fusion SE 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $5,487 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $5,487 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $21,138.
The average savings for the 2020 Ford Fusion SE 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 20.6% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 43 2020 Ford Fusion SE 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2020 Ford Fusion SEL 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2020 Ford Fusion SEL 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $30,780. The average price paid for a new 2020 Ford Fusion SEL 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $5,804 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $5,804 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $24,976.
The average savings for the 2020 Ford Fusion SEL 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 18.9% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 1 2020 Ford Fusion SEL 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2020 Ford Fusion Titanium 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2020 Ford Fusion Titanium 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $36,110. The average price paid for a new 2020 Ford Fusion Titanium 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $6,449 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $6,449 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $29,661.
The average savings for the 2020 Ford Fusion Titanium 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 17.9% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 2 2020 Ford Fusion Titanium 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
Which 2020 Ford Fusions are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2020 Ford Fusion for sale near. There are currently 98 new 2020 Fusions listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $24,165 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2020 Ford Fusion. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $7,889 on a used or CPO 2020 Fusion available from a dealership near you.
Can't find a new 2020 Ford Fusions you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new Ford for sale - 7 great deals out of 15 listings starting at $21,978.
Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2020 Ford Fusion?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Ford lease specials