2013 Fusion: Ford’s new power hitter

Like a major-league manager looking for power in the heart of the lineup, Ford has auditioned a series of midsize sedans, hoping to recapture the magic of the original, late-‘90s Taurus. At long last, Ford has found its power hitter. The second-generation, 2013 Fusion (from $22,695, including destination) is the first midsize Ford since the turn of the century capable of clearing the bases. (Note: Since we tested the 2013 Fusion, Ford has debuted the lightly updated 2014 version, whose pricing remains unchanged.) Perhaps the best-looking of the midsize bunch, the Fusion sports world-class driving dynamics, a roomy, comfortable cabin and a host of comfort, convenience and safety features, both standard and optional. It’s available with an array of fuel-efficient powerplants — including hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants — and can be had in front- and all-wheel-drive configurations. Fusion is based on Ford’s global Mondeo platform and retains the Mondeo’s European character. Taut and compliant, its ride-and-handling package carries more than a hint of Teutonic rigor. Even the electronically assisted steering system offers better-than-expected feel and responsiveness. With its Aston Martin-inspired grill, sweeping lines and coupe-like silhouette, the Fusion distinguishes itself from less inspired competitors. Its elongated roofline has surprisingly little effect on headroom and sight-lines, though hefty C pillars limit the view enjoyed by taller back-seat passengers. Interior styling is clean and uncluttered, if a bit clinical. On upper trims, the optional MyFord Touch interface remains a challenge. Sheathed in a black rubberized membrane, its touch-activated, flush-mounted controls (audio, navigation and climate) are difficult to parse, and nearly impossible to use underway. Fortunately, many functions can be operated by way of steering wheel-mounted controls or voice-activation. Seats are large, supportive and sufficiently adjustable that almost every driver will find a comfortable driving position. Two niggles: the driver’s headrest pushes too firmly against one’s head and the driver-side cup holder is positioned too closely to the driver’s elbow. A 175-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is standard on S and SE trims, while the SE qualifies for a trio of turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder upgrades — a 1.6-liter and a 1.5-liter each make 178 hp, and a 2.0-liter makes 240 hp and powers AWD trims. Fuel efficiency ranges from the 1.6’s 23 mpg city/36 mpg highway/28 mpg combined to the AWD’s 22/31/25. Besides the expected safety items, the Fusion includes a standard cell phone-based feature that in case of a crash automatically dials 911. Also standard is MyKey, which can be used to set certain limits for teen drivers. Upper trims can be equipped with blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, driver-drowsiness detection and lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, collision warning (with brake intervention) and inflatable rear seat belts. After long neglecting its passenger cars in favor of trucks and SUVs, Ford rebounds with its strongest car lineup in ever. With the Fiesta, Focus and Fusion holding down the Nos. 1-3 spots in the batting order, only the full-size, power-hitting Taurus awaits its makeover. Don Adair is a Spokane-based freelance writer. Contact him at don@dadair.com. 2013 Ford Fusion Titanium AWD Vehicle base price: $22,695 Trim level base price: $32,200 As tested: $35,980 Optional equipment included White Platinum metallic paint; navigation; 19-inch aluminum wheels; lane-keeping and cross-traffic alert systems. EPA ratings: 22 city/31 highway Regular unleaded fuel specified