2012 Ford Fusion Hybrid

2012 Ford Fusion Hybrid Overview

Critics said the 2012 Ford Fusion Hybrid’s four-cylinder engine and electric motor transition seamlessly from gas to electric power, and offer strong acceleration for a hybrid. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is standard, and the Fusion Hybrid gets an EPA-estimated 41/36 mpg city/highway, which is excellent for an affordable midsize car. Test drivers noted that the Fusion Hybrid’s suspension is tuned more for a comfortable ride than sharp handling, which results in some body roll during cornering. However, some automotive journalists noted that the Fusion Hybrid’s brakes are smoother than those found in many competing hybrid cars.

The 2012 Ford Fusion earned praise from most reviewers for its spacious cabin and premium interior materials. The Fusion Hybrid has an 11.8-cubic-foot trunk, which is small for a 2012 affordable midsize car but decent for a hybrid. They liked that high-tech features like the Fusion Hybrid’s SmartGuage uses animated graphics to show how efficiently you are driving. Standard features include a six-speaker audio system, a USB port, Bluetooth, satellite radio, dual-zone automatic climate control and SYNC, which allows you to control your smartphone or iPod using voice commands. Available features include a moonroof, a 12-speaker Sony surround-sound audio system, blind spot monitoring, a rearview camera, leather upholstery, heated front seats, HD Radio and navigation.

We named the 2012 Ford Fusion Hybrid our 2012 Best Hybrid Car for Families and our 2012 Best Hybrid Car for the Money when it was new.

Other Cars to Consider

The 2012 Toyota Prius has a much larger cargo area than the Ford Fusion Hybrid, and reviewers appreciated its roomy seats and fun-to-use high-tech interior features. The Prius also achieves noticeably higher fuel economy than the Fusion Hybrid.

Critics loved the 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid’s upscale interior design, and they said the front seats offer an impressive range of adjustments and the rear seats are surprisingly spacious. Strong acceleration and seamless transitions between gas and electric power impressed test drivers. Additionally, the Sonata Hybrid’s safety score is higher than the Fusion Hybrid’s.

Compare the Fusion Hybrid, Prius and Sonata Hybrid »