why ads?

Popular at KBB.com

The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2010 Ford Fusion

Please enter a valid mileage

View all 3 photos

Curious about the newer model? Check out the 2014 Ford Fusion

Overview

Trading in or Selling? Know where you stand with the most up-to-date Kelley Blue Book Value at your fingertips. See your car's value

Buying this car?

2010 Ford Fusion Review

By KBB.com Editors

Now in its fifth year as Ford's point player in the ultra-competitive mid-size sedan segment, the Fusion receives a major makeover for 2010 that raises its profile and competitive status against primary rivals like the Chevrolet Malibu, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry. Although much of the basic platform engineering on this front-drive/all-wheel drive four-door carries over, both its exterior and interior have been redone, imparting a more youthful and contemporary flavor that also brings additional measures of quality and style to the mix. Reinforcing that comprehensive upgrading are suspension refinements and more fuel-efficient powertrains. The final piece in the 2010 mix is a new Fusion Hybrid variant (reviewed separately) that complements the conventional lineup, which now includes S, SE, SEL and a new high-performance Sport model.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you need the practicality of a well-appointed, well-engineered and crisp-handling family-sized four-door that also offers a choice of fuel-efficient four-or six-cylinder engines and available all-wheel drive, the 2010 Ford Fusion merits serious consideration for a spot in your garage.

You May Not Like This Car If...

Even this new-and-improved Fusion may not be enough to convince hard-core Accord and Camry owners that it's time to head down to their local Ford dealers. Those who prioritize interior space would likely prefer the Chevy Malibu or the latest-generation Accord, which has grown sufficiently to now qualify as an EPA "large car."

What's New for 2010

A thorough revamp imparts new character to Ford's mid-size Fusion Sedan with cleaner styling, greater refinement, improved vehicle dynamics and upgraded powertrain combinations that boost both performance and fuel economy. An enthusiast-oriented 263-horsepower Sport variant also joins the lineup.

Driving the Fusion

Driving Impressions With more power and torque plus new six-speed transmissions, even four-cylinder 2010 Ford Fusion models have plenty in hand to cope with all normal city/highway traffic demands. Those willing to...

forego a bit of fuel economy will find the Fusion even more appealing when equipped with the 3.0-liter V6, while the 3.5-liter makes the Sport variant downright quick. Buyers can opt for front- or all-wheel drive with either engine. All but the Sport now use Ford's Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) that improves feedback and helps boost fuel economy. This new EPAS hardware also cuts nearly a foot out of the Fusion's turning circle to ease maneuvering in tight confines. Numerous refinements and geometry tweaks to the otherwise carryover suspension impart a more precise feel with better roll control across the lineup. To complement those dynamic improvements, the design team worked diligently – and quite effectively – to decrease ambient noise levels in the Fusion's revamped cabin.

Favorite Features

Impressive Powertrain Combinations
Revised engines and new transmissions make all conventional Fusion models more engaging to drive. Both the four-cylinder and V6 engines offer outstanding comparative mpg and drink regular unleaded (and/or E85 in the case of the 3.0-liter). The new six-speed automatic even gains a manual-style SelectShift gate when paired with either V6 engine.

SYNC Voice-Activated Communications
Standard in the Fusion SEL/Sport and available in S/SE models, the SYNC package is arguably the most useful and user-friendly multi-purpose input/output system on the market today. For 2010, it's been upgraded to include a new 911 Assist capability, Vehicle Health Report diagnostics, and can integrate with the optional on-board navigation system.

2010 Ford Fusion Details

Interior

Ford made the Fusion's passenger compartment a lot more inviting for 2010, courtesy of a major redesign that brings a richer character and more user-friendly elements to all models in the range. Soft-touch surfaces and metallic accents dominate this well-appointed, well-isolated realm, which is highlighted by a restyled dash fitted with highly-legible 3D-look instrumentation and a more logically arrayed center stack. Enhanced bolstering on the front buckets provides greater support and comfort while the rear quarters have sufficient head and leg room to comfortably accommodate two adults or carry three for shorter distances. A 60/40 split-folding seatback adds even more utility to the Fusion's already spacious 16.5 cubic-foot trunk.

Exterior

The 2010 Ford Fusion's comprehensive visual refresh begins with design tweaks that impart a sportier look and improved aerodynamics. Everything ahead of the A-pillar is new, from the prominent power bulge on its hood and smartly flared fenders to bolder fascia/lamp/grille treatments that impart a lower, wider look. Complementing that revamp, new underbody shields help channel air aft more efficiently, while its rear quarters gain added distinction with reshaped taillamps, a redrawn decklid and a lower-fascia "diffuser" panel with dual exhausts. Fusion S trims get V-rated all-season 205/60 tires on 16-inch aluminum wheels, SE/SEL models step that up to 225/50 rubber on 17-inch steel (SE) or alloy (SEL) wheels while the Sport wears 225/45s on 18-inch alloys.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

Regardless of trim/powertrain choices, all Fusions are very well equipped. Even the Fusion S boasts power windows/locks/mirrors, air conditioning, keyless remote entry, cruise control, tilt/telescoping steering column, AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system and a 60/40 split/folding rear seat plus AdvanceTrac stability/traction control, anti-lock brakes and front/front-side/side-curtain airbags. The SE steps up with items like SIRIUS Satellite Radio, an enhanced sound system, power driver's seat, redundant steering wheel controls and fog lamps, while the SEL brings dual-zone auto climate control, leather-trimmed full-power seats and SYNC voice-activated communications. Beyond more power and a dedicated suspension/wheel/tire package, the Sport adds special exterior/interior trim and 911 assist to its SYNC system.

Optional Equipment

Fusion S extras are limited to an automatic transmission Remote Start and floormats, while SE buyers can opt for an automatic transmission, a 3.0-liter V6, electrochromic mirrors, SYNC with 911 Assist (with or without a sunroof), rear spoiler and a Reverse Sensing System. The SEL offers the 3.0 V6, Driver's Vision Package (Rear-View Camera plus Blind-Spot Info System with Cross-Traffic Alert) while SEL/Sport trims allow voice-activated Navigation, a Moon & Tune Package (moonroof plus 12-speaker/390-watt Sony premium audio), and all-wheel drive. Only Sport buyers can choose a convenience-oriented Electronics Package but a Sport Appearance Package that includes a tauter suspension will be added later for the SE/SEL.

Under the Hood

Significant powertrain upgrades bring technology that elevates the pony count, fuel economy and driving experience in all 2010 Ford Fusion models. It starts with a new 2.5-liter Duratec in-line four-cylinder that replaces the previous 2.3-liter. The sole engine in the "S" model, the 2.5 makes 175 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque, whether mated to the now-standard six-speed manual transmission or the new optional six-speed automatic. Available in SE/SEL trims and paired with a mandatory 6-speed automatic transmission that adds a manual-style SelectShift feature is a 3.0-liter Flex-Fuel V6 that develops 240 horsepower and 223 pound-feet of torque. The Sport level brings a potent 3.5-liter V6 rated at 263 horsepower, 249 pound-feet of torque and is paired with the 6-speed SelectShift automatic. The SEL/Sport models also offer optional on-demand all-wheel drive.

2.5-liter in-line 4
175 horsepower @ 6000 rpm
172 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 22/31 (manual), 23/34 (automatic)

3.0-liter V6 (Flex-Fuel)
240 horsepower @ 6550 rpm
223 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4300 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/27 (FWD, automatic), 18/25 (AWD, automatic)

3.5-liter V6
263 horsepower @ 6250 rpm
249 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/27 (FWD, automatic), 17/24 (AWD, automatic)

To compare current market prices, check out KBB.com's car classifieds to view the new and used Ford Fusion vehicles for sale near you.

Trading in or Selling? Know where you stand with the most up-to-date Kelley Blue Book Value at your fingertips. See your car's value

Buying this car?

2010 Ford Fusion Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

9.0

Out of 10

Based on 292 Ratings for the 2010 - 2012 models.

Review this car

Value

9.1/10

Quality

9.1/10
Reliability

9.2/10

Performance

9.1/10
Comfort

9.2/10

Styling

9.2/10

Would not recommend

By Paulasue (TX) on Wednesday, July 31, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 73,000

10 1.0

overall rating 1 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 1/10
Value: 5/10
Reliability: 5/10
Quality: 1/10
Performance: 5/10
Styling: 3/10
Comfort: 10/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 1

"This is my 3rd Ford.... &&& this is the newest Ford I have ever owned. I thought I would stick to Ford since my 2001 Ford Taurus never gave me any problems. I have had nothing but problems with this fusion! &&& the interior is the light grey, which stains very easily... Even when yu spill water on it! I am just very unsatisfied &&& will be switching to Chevy!"

Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse

Been a great car!

By Skyblu (MN) on Sunday, July 28, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 78,000

10 7.0

overall rating 7 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 7/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: 7/10
Quality: 8/10
Performance: 7/10
Styling: 7/10
Comfort: 8/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 8

"Review on my 2010, Fusion SE, 2.5L. Now with 78,000 miles on it i am reviewing my car purchase. Overall it is a great car. I would say 7.5/10. Mixed driving MPG, or combined MPG is 27 MPG. I have hit as high as 33 MPG on a road trip from the Twin City's to St. Louis, MO. And it has been as low as 23 in the dead cold of the Minnesota winter. Here a a few things I find great about the car and a few thing I don't like about it. Pros: - Great looks inside and out! - inside controls are laid out nice and materials are above average and with real sound build quality. - Seat are comfortable - Ride is nice and soft, not sporty, but good road trip car you could drive all day in. - huge trunk Cons: - 2.5L is slow to accelerate at any speed. Might want to opt for the V6 if you can handle the MPG drop from the 4 cyl. to the 6 cyl. - Hard to see what is right behind the car. For a car this size it seems to swallow up everything that is behind it. - Had to replace one of the axel shafts on the FWD. Ford issued a TSB for this for the 2010 model year only, but no recall. That kind of hurt as it was a $800 bill to get that fixed but that has been the cars only issue in 78k. Conclusion: Overall real pleased with my choice. I think this model looks great, as I do with all 3 of the different Fusion body styles, great model DNA I would say. I have taken it on many a road trips with the family and it has never disappointed. Lots of room for both passengers and gear and very comfortable for any length of drive. The axel shaft thing was a disappointment for a car so new. My Dad has a 2011 Chev Malibu, LTZ with under 19K that has been in the shop 3 times already. So tho he has not had to pay anything out of pocket due to his warranty and mine was paid for out of pocket it still put it into perspective for me somewhat. I will keep driving this for another 3 years myself than pass it on to one of my kids. At that point The new Fusion will be at the top of the list of new cars I will check out for my next new vehicle purchase. Well done Ford."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse

Very nice looking and riding car.

By Ms. Maryanne (NY) on Friday, July 19, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 9,000

10 6.0

overall rating 6 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 6/10
Value: 6/10
Reliability: 6/10
Quality: 6/10
Performance: 5/10
Styling: 5/10
Comfort: 5/10

Pros: "Nice looking, good technology features"

Cons: "A/C problems continue -"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 4

"Have enjoyed the car so far, however, have ad A/C problems. Evaporator had to be replaced. Fan powers at about a 'slow to slower' rate and car does not cool down unless temp is in 70's. In the shop right now again for same problem."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse

Love the styling, comfort, economy

By Enjoyer (FL) on Wednesday, July 10, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 34,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Fun to drive, fast, cheap to operate, electronics"

Cons: "Small wind noise on pass. side, quiet otherwise"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I think my car looks great. It's also comfortable inside, extremely quiet, and the electronic systems are fantastic. Here in Florida where it's pretty flat, I like that I regularly get 40 MPG at 70 MPH. We drive a lot (34K miles in 19 months) and this has been a fantastic & reliable car."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse

Has given me more than expected value

By IamBrisk (MA) on Friday, June 28, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 30,500

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "comfortable, safe, great gas milage."

Cons: "none"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I have not had any problems with this car. On a round trip to Florida from MA we averaged 36 MPG and at times got almost 40 MPG using cruise control at 64 MPH. It handled great through the Green Mountains and in down pour conditions. One flat tire from a nail in sidewall. I was GM guy growing up and I had my doubts about Fords, but am very satisfied."

1 person out of 2 found this review helpful

Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse

Great cor, could be more efficient

By Geekydee (MO) on Saturday, May 25, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 11,500

10 8.0

overall rating 8 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 8/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 7/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "roomy and luxurious, with with all the amenities"

Cons: "mpg is bad if you live in a hilly area"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"A joy to drive, roomy and comfortable, even with 5 adults, with all the controls in easy reach. MPG is great if in a flat area, hills will kill it, avg 33 in warm weather, 30 in cool, although I took it on a trip to a flat town and got 40 MPG avg and made it 500 miles with a few gallons to spare on the way there and back (my town is all hills). Creature comforts are great, esp. heated seats! Just wish software engineers would change the hybrid ratio a little, and the biggest improvement would be a detente or two stage spring in the gas (accelerator now, I guess) pedal to let you know you reached the electric limit and it is switching over to gas mode. Oh, and beware the cheap plastic bumpers in really cold weather, they crack apart real easily! On my 3rd rear bumper and 2nd front bumper, at about $2300 each replacement. Just leaning against it will crack it. The rear camera is great and the blind spot warning lamps in the mirrors really help a lot. The car handles and rides like a luxury car (only have a friend's BMW and another's Cadillac to compare it to) and can get you into trouble easily (it will get to the limiter, 'nuff said)."

1 person out of 2 found this review helpful

Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse

See all 292 reviews