Fuel-sipping fun
Self-parking feature easiest to learn, use
The rear seat accommodates three adults with surprising ease. Yes, the back end of the centre console and the central tunnel intrude into the middle rider’s space, but it remains functional for those times when a fifth person is aboard. I also liked the inflatable rear seat belt — it adds an extra measure of security should the worst occur. Behind that, the trunk is a small apartment. With 60/40-split folding seat backs and 453 litres of space, it more than accommodates the luggage for a family of five.
The test car arrived with all the latest technology, including MyKey, MyFord Touch, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning and a sonar-based reversing system with camera to go with Ford’s slick selfparking feature. The latter is the easiest system on the market to use, bar none.
There was, however, a technical glitch: the Fusion locked its smart key in the cabin. Mercifully, Ford’s roadside assistance was fast and efficient. But why did it lock the doors with the key still inside?
According to Ford, it is “possible if the fob’s signal is weak, or is shielded in some way (metal encasement or interference) that the module wouldn’t recognize the fob in the car.” So, a word to the wise: keep the key where it will not get locked in the car. It remained in my pocket for the rest of the test!
The Fusion remains a top contender in a segment that includes the Honda Accord, Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry, along with the Hyundai Sonata and Kia Optima, not to mention GM’s revamped Malibu and Chrysler’s new 200. It is stylishly practical, sporty and it has the right technology available.
Admittedly, adding all of the toys/ options drives the price up quickly, but with the SE anchoring the lineup, it remains an affordable, fun-todrive, family car that deserves to be on any shopping list.