The 2nd generation of the Fusion hybrid has been around since 2012 and it didn’t change much since. Not that long ago the 2018 Fusion Hybrid SE was unveiled and unfortunately the car is mostly identical to the one from last year. This is likely because Ford is looking to completely redesign the car for the upcoming years. Until then the current model will have to do. Even though it is not the newest hybrid in its class, the Fusion still manages to score quite high as it offers a great amount of value for money. The car comes with plenty of features for its class and with a really unique design scheme.
2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid SE – In detail
The new 2018 hybrid version of the Fusion is still based on the same CD4 platform as before. This means it offers a good amount of comfort and safety for its class. The drawback is that it isn’t exactly the best one in terms of driving characteristics.
2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid SE
This is mostly because the hybrid adds quite a bit of weight over the regular model which is noticeable when driving. The good part is that Ford hasn’t change the pricing. The 2018 Fusion Hybrid SE still starts at little over $26,000 which is a steal considering how much kit the car comes with.
Inside the cabin
There aren’t that many differences between the regular Fusion and the hybrid model. The design here is mostly the same between the two cars. The Fusion still boasts the same dashboard as it did back in 2012 but it comes with better materials, a rotary gear-changing knob as well as brushed-look inserts all around the cabin.
2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid SE Interior
The driver’s display has been changed as well so this time around the speedometer is flanked by two higher resolution LCD screens. Even though it is the mid-range model, things like cooled seats, a premium 11-speakers audio system or even rear AC vents can be had as optional extras or as standard with certain packages. The interesting part is that Ford’s great Sync3 infotainment system is still not available on the Fusion which is a real shame.
The design
The car looks identical to its predecessor but that’s no surprise. Even though this is the case, the Fusion still makes a great car to buy at this price point. It definitely looks better than most other offerings on the market and it has a certain appeal that some people seem to love.
2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid SE Design
The Aston-like front grille and the swept-back headlights definitely make it stand out. Unfortunately Ford didn’t do much to the car since 2012 so it might start to feel dated soon enough.
2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid SE Specs
The 2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid SE comes equipped with a 2.0 liter naturally aspirated Atkinson-capable gasoline engine. This offers 141 horsepower and 129 lb-ft of torque all by itself which is not that great. However, thanks to the fact it is a hybrid, it also boasts an electric motor. The total output for this system is 188 horsepower with quite a bit of torque available from as low as 1,000RPM.
This sends all the power to the front wheels via a two-speed CVT gearbox which is not great. However, it does give the driver a usable amount of power and torque and it definitely fits this fuel-economy oriented car. In fact the Fusion hybrid will get 43 MPG in the city and up to 41 MPG on the highway which is quite good. It will do up to 42 MPG on average as well and it will be more efficient than its plug-in counterpart most of the time. The only real drawback here is the acute lack of power but even so the car will make for a great commuter.
| 2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid SE | |
| Dimensions And Weight | |
| Wheelbase | 112.2 in |
| Length | 191.8 in |
| Height | 58 in |
| Width | 83.5 in |
| Weight | 3668 lbs |
| Engine And Transmission | |
| Engine type | 2.5L Duratec 16V I4 Engine |
| Displacement | 2.5L |
| Power/torque | 141 hp/129 lb-ft |
| Transmission | N/A |
| Performance | |
| 0-60 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Top speed | 85 mph |
| PRICE RANGE:$26,245 | |
