2010 Ford Fusion: To Hybrid Or To Sport, That Is the Question

2010 Fusion Sport: New to the Ford Fusion line for 2010 is the Fusion Sport. Featuring 18-inch wheels, a 3.5-liter, 263-horsepower V-6 Duratec engine and sport-tuned suspension, the Sport is the ultimate Fusion. A sportier, more-technical look and feel is found throughout the exterior and interior of the 2010 Ford Fusion Sport. (11/19/08)

Recently, I went on a 41 mpg Challenge test drive with the all-new 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid and was impressed with its performance and sophistication. While I was waiting to get behind the wheel of the Fusion Hybrid, someone dangled the keys to the also new 2010 Ford Fusion Sport AWD in front of me. Now that is like putting a carrot in front of a rabbit, so of course I jumped at the chance to take it for a spin.

This particular Sport Fusion was decked out in Sangria Red with the black leather interior with red seat inserts and accents. The 2010 Ford Fusion Sport isn’t just a special badge; no, it is much more with the 3.5-liter V-6 that puts out 263 horsepower and runs on 87-octane fuel as a bonus. Other upgrades from the other 2010 Fusion models include a performance-tuned suspension, 18-inch wheels, deck lid spoiler and a unique front fascia. All this and more features come in a nice package that will set you back around 26K and return 18/27 mpg city/highway.

2010 Ford Fusion

Driving the 2010 Ford Fusion Sport is what will make you fall in love with this car. This is definitely aimed at the sports car enthusiast that also needs to consider the family in their next car purchase. On my test drive I found that the performance tuned suspension was good in town and didn’t make you or your passengers feel like they were riding in a Conestoga wagon. However, where this car really excels is in the corners. Thankfully part of my test drive route included a twisty three-curve entrance ramp onto the freeway where I could push the Fusion Sport’s performance and handling.

I can happily report that the steering is precise, the acceleration is plentiful and the suspension and tire setup keep the car well planted on the road. Coming up to the entrance of the third curve I had to slow down more than I would have liked due to other traffic on the ramp, the result was a little rear-end sway, but it is controlled and very manageable. There are only two drawbacks I found immediately in the 2010 Ford Fusion (noticeable in both the Hybrid and Sport): right rear blind spot and rear headroom. The blind spot problem has been cleverly mitigated with the blind spot warning system in the side-view mirrors, which leaves us the rear headroom. For those passengers that are over six-foot tall you will probably find yourself slouching due to the rake of the roof, but overall the rear seats are still comfortable and providing you don’t race over speed bumps, the rear passengers will probably never notice.

2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid: The Ford Fusion Hybrid combines second-generation hybrid technology, class-leading styling and features along with the class-exclusive SmartGauge with EcoGuide instrument panel to help customers achieve maximum fuel economy in a sporty package. (11/19/08)

Now the real question: To Hybrid or to Sport? The answer here comes down to what you are looking for in your car, in your street cred and your wallet. Both the Hybrid and the Sport will set you back over 25K. The base Hybrid is comparable in price to the base Sport with all-wheel drive. So price isn’t really a big factor, no the real question is image versus economy. Since I am a 20 something, I find myself drawn to the power, style and overall performance of the 2010 Ford Fusion Sport. However, the businessperson in me says that the Hybrid is the way to go because I drive over 90 miles a day to and from the office on the highway.

Bottom line—with either vehicle you can’t go wrong. One will give you the 4-door sports car feel and the other a good sedan ride with untouchable (at least today) gas mileage in its class and a spectacular 7-inch liquid crystal information gauge (go to show off to your friends). If I could afford it, I would have one of each—but since this is a world of choices, I would probably go with the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid do to my lengthy commute (and the EcoGauge doesn’t hurt).

*Special thanks again to Lakewood Fordland for hosting the test drive and lending out the 2010 Ford Fusion Sport.

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