2nd Place: 2014 Ford Fusion, Jacob Black
The top three in the looks department at this test were quite clearly Jacob Black, Stephanie Wallcraft and Jeff Wilson the Ford Fusion, Mazda6 and Kia Optima. And it was the Fusion that edged ahead by just one tenth of a point over the other two, though as Jonathan noted; “Fusion, in this sexy red dress with black shoes looked killer while the white somewhat flattened the Mazda’s curves and creases.” So it was essentially a tie. Bottom line? Fusion has bulk curb appeal.
And the Fusion does more than impress visually. It feels heavier, more solid, more refined out on the road. It feels like a more premium car than its price tag suggests and that impresses.
“On the road its handling manners are really quite good and makes the Ford feel like it has spent time in Europe being tuned,” Jeff Wilson raved. “The engine doesn’t sound like the tiny mill that it is and the power is perfectly decent for this group.” That’s despite the Fusion’s tiny 1.5L EcoBoost (that’s Ford-speak for “turbo”) four-cylinder, by far the smallest of this group. Despite the smaller engine, the 1.5L tied for the worst fuel economy of the day with the Kia Optima’s 2.0L turbo – size and economy are not always linked.
The Fusion also impressed for its interior quality and space – though disappointed with the finicky and slow MyFord Touch system. It rated last for usability and ergonomics as a result of that hot mess.
The rear seats were the widest of the group and gave a genuine three-adult option. “It would have had the best shoulder space as well,” Stephanie said. “Most of the others were pretty tight with the three of us in there, but the Fusion gave us more wiggle room than most.” The driver’s seat also rated highest for comfort and driving position, and with top marks for ride comfort, the Fusion was, surprisingly, the comfort champ.
Apart from its generous interior, quality ride and stunning looks, the Fusion also performs well at pace – coming in second only to the Mazda6 in handling. The Fusion scored consistently high right across the scoreboard, and won on the score sheets of both Stephanie Wallcraft and Jonathan Yarkony. It was Fusion’s consistent quality that earned it the runner-up spot, and helps explain its sales dominance too.
Pricing: 2014 Ford Fusion SE 1.5L
Base Price (Lowest trim): $22,499
Base Price: $24,599
Options: Equipment group – $3,000, Floor mats – $150, SE Tech package – $850, active park assist – $600, reverse sensing system – $400, navigation – $800, intelligent access – $500, 19-inch wheels – $700, rear inflatable seatbelts – $190, driver assist package – $1,500
A/C Tax: $100
Freight and PDI: $1,565
Price as Tested: $34,954
