Ford has added many changes to its signature Fusion model, none of them bigger however then the powertrain options the new vehicles offer. Ford has completely eliminated the V6 engine option for the newer model, probably in an effort to accentuate fuel economy, which is always an important factor to consider when thinking about buying a midsize vehicle.
Three of the four engine possibilities are complemented with a six-speed automatic transmission by default. The fuel economy figures are above average, though a little lower than that of the Nissan Altima's 27 mpg for city driving and 38 mpg highway driving. If you want the best mileage possible however, you couldn't go wrong with the 47-mpg hybrid.
The 2013 Fusion offers more leg and headroom then the 2012 model, but is longer than a usual midsize sedan. The outside appearance doesn't make it seem so however, mainly due to the refurbished exterior design. The Fusion's audio system can actually help cancel out engine noise, a problem that many owners of the previous model complained over. This is accomplished through active noise cancellation.
Three sensitive microphones are attached in the Fusion Hybrid's interior headliner, two over the first seating row and one over the rear, to detect and measure engine noise. These microphones will then send a signal to the active noise cancellation control module.
The module will then generate opposing sound waves. This reversed wave is directed through the Fusion Hybrid's audio system, merging with the original engine noise wave to cancel out any unpleasant sounds.
"The Fusion Hybrid leverages this advanced technology to help deliver maximum fuel economy for the customer," said Dr. Takeshi Abe, a Henry Ford Technical Fellow for Noise, Vibration and Harshness in a press conference. "Reduced powertrain noise in the passenger compartment becomes the icing on the cake."
The 1.6-liter EcoBoost turbo options are paired with either a manual or automatic transmission. Despite that, the engine has an EPA estimated fuel economy of 36 mpg for highway driving and 23 mpg for city driving. For an extra boost, interested buyers can choose the 2.0-liter, 240-horsepower EcoBoost turbo option as well.
The 2013 Ford Fusion is expected to be released during the fall and pricing starts at approximately $21,200.
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