Styling: 2012 Ford Fusion HybridThe Fusion Hybrid is the traditionalist of the hybrid vehicle class. While other top models such as the Toyota Prius and Honda Insight boast a noticeably aerodynamic design, the Ford hybrid sticks with a standard sedan body style that will likely appeal to a wide variety of car shoppers.
On the plus side, this conventional body style results in a large interior cabin that easily accommodates both front and rear passengers. On the negative side, it also means the Fusion Hybrid delivers less-than-expected real estate in the category of trunk space. While the high-rise butts of the Prius and Insight help make room for the large battery that all hybrids require, the standard trunk of the Fusion Hybrid does not. As a result, maximum cargo space is limited to 11.8 cubic feet.
Performance: 2012 Ford Fusion HybridEngine and fuel figures are identical to last year's model. As a result, car shoppers will be happy to learn the Ford hybrid sedan earns 36 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway (39 mpg combined). While not quite as high as the Toyota Prius (50 mpg combined), many shoppers are willing to compromise the added mileage in favor of a more stylish exterior (not to mention, a big boost in standard features).
The power plant for the 2012 Ford Fusion Hybrid comes in the form of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. Mated to an electric motor, the vehicle musters a solid 191 horsepower. This power is above average for the hybrid vehicle class, with an acceleration of zero to 60 mph in a bit less than 9.0 seconds.
Safety: 2012 Ford Fusion HybridThe Ford Fusion Hybrid comes with a good list of standard safety features. These include antilock disc brakes, front side airbags, side curtain airbags, stability control, traction control and Ford MyKey technology (which allows parents to limit top speed and stereo volume to help keep teens safe when on the road). In crash tests performed by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Fusion Hybrid earned a top of score of "Good" in all categories.
Pricing and Features: 2012 Ford Fusion HybridBase MSRP for the 2012 Fusion Hybrid is listed at $28,600. For this price, shoppers get an above-average number of comfort and convenience features. Base models come complete with everything offered on the top-of-the-line Ford Fusion SEL (non-hybrid model). Notable inclusions are automatic dual-zone climate control, power lumbar support for the driver, heated front seats, Bluetooth, Ford Sync, cruise control, six-speaker audio system and automatic headlights.
Optional equipment includes GPS navigation, moon roof and backup camera. Add them all, and you can expect an MSRP of $33,085.
