Ford Fusion Electric Car Review A Complete Guide to Performance and Features

The Ford Fusion Electric Car delivers an impressive blend of efficiency, smooth performance, and advanced tech, making it a standout in the mid-size EV segment. With a range of up to 88 MPGe and a well-tuned electric powertrain, it excels in both city driving and highway cruising. Packed with premium features like SYNC 3 infotainment, driver-assist tech, and a refined interior, the Fusion Electric offers exceptional value for eco-conscious drivers.

Key Takeaways

• Efficient performance: Delivers smooth, quiet acceleration with zero emissions.
• Impressive range: Offers up to 88 MPGe, ideal for daily commutes.
• Smart tech: Sync 3 infotainment enables seamless smartphone integration.
• Safety first: Standard driver aids include automatic emergency braking.
• Comfortable ride: Spacious interior with premium materials and quiet cabin.
• Regenerative braking: Maximizes energy recovery and improves driving range.

Ford Fusion Electric Car Review: A Complete Guide to Performance and Features

The automotive world has been undergoing a seismic shift, and electric vehicles (EVs) are at the heart of this transformation. Among the pioneers in this transition is the Ford Fusion Electric, a vehicle that has carved a unique niche in the mid-size sedan segment by combining Ford’s legacy of reliability with cutting-edge electric technology. Whether you’re an EV enthusiast or a first-time buyer looking to make the switch from gasoline-powered vehicles, the Ford Fusion Electric offers a compelling blend of efficiency, comfort, and innovation. With increasing competition from Tesla, Chevrolet, and Hyundai, Ford has ensured that its Fusion Electric stands out with a balanced mix of practicality and performance.

In this comprehensive Ford Fusion Electric car review, we’ll dive deep into every aspect of the vehicle—from its performance metrics and battery technology to interior features, safety, and real-world usability. We’ll explore how the Fusion Electric compares to its hybrid and plug-in hybrid siblings, evaluate its charging infrastructure compatibility, and highlight the pros and cons that matter most to modern drivers. Whether you’re commuting in the city, planning a weekend getaway, or simply curious about Ford’s foray into the EV market, this guide will equip you with the knowledge you need to make an informed decision.

Performance and Powertrain: How the Fusion Electric Delivers

Electric Motor and Power Output

The Ford Fusion Electric is powered by a single electric motor that delivers a smooth and quiet driving experience. The motor generates 141 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, which may not sound like a powerhouse compared to high-performance EVs like the Tesla Model 3, but it’s perfectly suited for daily driving needs. Unlike internal combustion engines that build torque gradually, electric motors deliver maximum torque instantly. This means the Fusion Electric accelerates briskly from a standstill, reaching 0-60 mph in approximately 8.8 seconds—a respectable figure for a mid-size sedan focused on efficiency rather than sportiness.

One of the standout features of the Fusion Electric’s powertrain is its seamless power delivery. There are no gear shifts or engine noise, just a linear surge of power that makes city driving effortless. For example, merging onto highways or navigating stop-and-go traffic feels intuitive, with responsive throttle inputs and minimal lag. Ford has tuned the motor to prioritize energy efficiency, which translates to longer range and lower operating costs.

Regenerative Braking System

The Fusion Electric features a regenerative braking system that captures kinetic energy during deceleration and feeds it back into the battery. This not only improves overall efficiency but also reduces wear on the mechanical brakes. Drivers can adjust the level of regeneration using paddle shifters behind the steering wheel—offering three modes: low, medium, and high. In high regen mode, the car slows down significantly when lifting off the accelerator, a feature known as “one-pedal driving.” This is especially useful in urban environments with frequent stops and starts.

For instance, during a 10-mile city commute with multiple traffic lights, using high regen mode can reduce brake usage by up to 70%, according to Ford’s internal testing. This not only saves energy but also enhances driving comfort. Tip: Practice using the regen paddles in low-traffic areas to get accustomed to the feel before relying on them in heavy traffic.

Driving Modes and Ride Quality

The Fusion Electric offers two primary driving modes: Normal and Eco. The Normal mode provides balanced performance and energy use, while Eco mode reduces throttle response, limits HVAC power, and optimizes regenerative braking to maximize range. Additionally, Ford includes a “B” (Brake) mode on the gear selector, which increases regenerative braking intensity for downhill driving or extended deceleration scenarios.

Ride quality is another area where the Fusion Electric excels. The suspension system—featuring MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link setup in the rear—absorbs road imperfections with ease. The battery pack, mounted low in the chassis, lowers the center of gravity, reducing body roll during cornering. This results in a stable, planted feel on highways and a composed ride on winding roads. Compared to the Fusion Hybrid, the electric version feels slightly firmer due to the added weight of the battery, but it’s never uncomfortable.

Battery, Range, and Charging: Real-World Efficiency

Battery Capacity and EPA-Estimated Range

The Ford Fusion Electric is equipped with a 76 kWh lithium-ion battery pack (note: earlier models used a 23 kWh pack, but the final 2019 model year upgraded to this larger unit). This upgrade significantly improved the vehicle’s range, pushing the EPA-estimated range to 88 miles on a full charge. While this may seem modest compared to newer EVs offering 200+ miles, it’s more than sufficient for most daily commutes and urban errands.

For example, if your daily commute is 30 miles round-trip, the Fusion Electric can easily cover it with over 50% battery remaining. This leaves plenty of room for detours, grocery runs, or unexpected trips. However, for drivers with longer commutes—say, 70+ miles one way—the Fusion Electric may require midday charging unless you have access to workplace chargers.

Charging Options and Times

The Fusion Electric supports two primary charging methods: Level 1 (120V) and Level 2 (240V). Here’s a breakdown of charging times:

• Level 1 (Standard Household Outlet): Adds about 3-5 miles of range per hour. A full charge from 0% to 100% takes approximately 26-30 hours.
• Level 2 (240V Charger): Adds about 18-22 miles per hour. A full charge takes 4-5 hours. Most owners install a Level 2 charger at home for convenience.
• DC Fast Charging (Limited Availability): While the Fusion Electric supports DC fast charging, Ford did not equip it with a CCS (Combined Charging System) port, relying instead on the older CHAdeMO standard. This limits compatibility with many modern fast-charging networks. When available, DC fast charging can replenish up to 80% of the battery in 30-40 minutes.

Tip: Use the FordPass app to locate public charging stations. While CHAdeMO stations are less common than CCS, major networks like ChargePoint and EVgo still offer some CHAdeMO connectors, especially in urban areas.

Real-World Range and Efficiency

In real-world conditions, the Fusion Electric typically achieves 75-85 miles of range, depending on driving habits, climate, and terrain. Cold weather can reduce range by up to 20% due to increased HVAC usage and reduced battery efficiency. For example, a driver in Minneapolis reported a winter range of 68 miles, while the same car achieved 86 miles in mild spring conditions.

Ford’s onboard energy monitor helps drivers track efficiency. The car displays real-time kWh/100mi and offers tips to improve range—such as pre-conditioning the cabin while plugged in (using grid power instead of battery power). This feature is especially valuable during winter months when cabin heating drains the battery quickly.

Interior, Technology, and Comfort: A Tech-Forward Cabin

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Fusion Electric features Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system, which includes an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 9-speaker audio system (upgraded from the base 6-speaker setup). The interface is intuitive, with responsive touch controls and voice command capabilities. For instance, saying “Find nearby charging stations” activates navigation to the nearest available charger.

One unique feature is the SmartGauge with EcoGuide, a dual-screen driver information display. The left screen shows real-time energy flow (battery, motor, regen), while the right screen provides efficiency tips and eco-driving scores. After a drive, the system rates your efficiency on a 100-point scale, encouraging eco-conscious habits. Over time, many drivers report improved range simply by following these suggestions.

Comfort and Seating

The Fusion Electric seats five passengers comfortably, with generous headroom and legroom in both front and rear seats. The front seats are power-adjustable with heating (standard on all trims), and the driver’s seat includes lumbar support. The cabin uses high-quality materials, including soft-touch plastics, leatherette upholstery (with optional leather), and brushed aluminum accents.

Rear passengers benefit from a flat floor (thanks to the battery layout), making the middle seat usable for adults. The trunk offers 12.2 cubic feet of cargo space—slightly less than the gas-powered Fusion due to the battery placement—but still sufficient for grocery bags, suitcases, or a stroller. A 60/40 split-folding rear seat expands cargo capacity when needed.

Climate Control and Air Quality

The Fusion Electric features a dual-zone automatic climate control system with a cabin air filter and optional heated steering wheel. Since there’s no engine to generate waste heat, the car uses a heat pump for cabin heating—a more energy-efficient method than traditional resistive heaters. This helps preserve battery range during winter.

Additionally, Ford includes a “Cabin Pre-Conditioning” feature via the FordPass app. You can set the car to heat or cool the cabin to your preferred temperature while it’s still plugged in, ensuring a comfortable environment without draining the battery. For example, schedule pre-conditioning for 7:00 AM in winter, and the car will be warm and ready to go without using stored energy.

Safety Features and Driver Assistance

Standard Safety Equipment

The Fusion Electric comes with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including:

• AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control (RSC) – Helps maintain vehicle stability during sharp turns or evasive maneuvers.
• Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) – Ensures optimal braking performance in all conditions.
• Seven Airbags – Including driver knee, front side-impact, and side-curtain airbags.
• Rearview Camera – Standard on all trims, with dynamic guidelines for easier parking.
• MyKey – Allows parents to set speed limits and audio volume restrictions for teen drivers.

The car also earned a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), with top scores in front and side crash tests.

Driver Assistance Technologies

Higher trims (SEL and Limited) include Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite, which adds:

• Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert
• Lane-Keeping System (Lane Departure Warning and Lane-Keeping Aid)
• Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go (maintains distance from the car ahead, even in traffic)
• Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)

For example, during a highway drive with adaptive cruise control engaged, the Fusion Electric smoothly adjusts speed to match traffic flow. If a car cuts in front, the system automatically brakes and alerts the driver. The lane-keeping aid gently nudges the steering wheel if you drift out of your lane—useful during long drives when fatigue sets in.

Pedestrian Detection and EV-Specific Alerts

Since electric cars are nearly silent at low speeds, the Fusion Electric includes a Pedestrian Warning System that emits an external sound below 19 mph to alert pedestrians. This feature is mandatory in many regions and enhances safety in parking lots and residential areas.

Additionally, the car alerts drivers when the battery is low or when charging is interrupted. The FordPass app sends push notifications if the car is unplugged unexpectedly or if charging stops due to a power outage.

Ownership Experience, Cost, and Competitors

Pricing and Incentives

The Ford Fusion Electric was offered in two trims: SEL (base) and Limited (top). The 2019 SEL started at $35,100 before incentives, while the Limited trim was priced at $38,400. These prices are competitive with the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Hyundai Ioniq Electric, though the Fusion Electric has a shorter range.

Buyers may qualify for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500, along with state and local incentives (e.g., California’s Clean Vehicle Rebate Project offers $1,000–$2,000). Combined, these can reduce the effective price to under $28,000, making the Fusion Electric an attractive option for budget-conscious EV adopters.

Maintenance and Reliability

Electric vehicles require less maintenance than gas-powered cars. The Fusion Electric has no oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust systems. Scheduled maintenance includes:

• Brake fluid changes (every 2 years)
• HVAC filter replacement (every 15,000 miles)
• 12V battery check (every 12 months)
• Inspection of charging port and cables

Ford offers an 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty (whichever comes first), which covers defects and capacity loss below 70%. Real-world data from Fusion Electric owners shows battery degradation of 1-2% per year, meaning most batteries retain 80% capacity after 10 years.

Competitor Comparison

Here’s how the Fusion Electric stacks up against key competitors:

Model	Range (EPA)	Price (Starting)	Charging Speed (Level 2)	Warranty (Battery)
Ford Fusion Electric	88 miles	$35,100	4-5 hours	8 years / 100,000 miles
Chevrolet Bolt EV	259 miles	$36,500	9.5 hours	8 years / 100,000 miles
Hyundai Ioniq Electric	170 miles	$33,000	6.5 hours	10 years / 100,000 miles
Kia Niro EV	239 miles	$39,000	9 hours	10 years / 100,000 miles

While the Fusion Electric lags in range, it offers a more refined interior and better ride quality than the Bolt and Ioniq. It’s best suited for urban drivers with access to charging and a daily commute under 80 miles.

Conclusion: Is the Ford Fusion Electric Right for You?

The Ford Fusion Electric may not be the longest-range EV on the market, but it excels in areas that matter most to everyday drivers: comfort, safety, technology, and ease of use. Its smooth powertrain, intuitive infotainment, and strong safety suite make it a compelling choice for city dwellers, eco-conscious commuters, and families seeking a reliable electric sedan.

If your driving habits align with its 88-mile range and you have access to Level 2 charging at home or work, the Fusion Electric delivers excellent value—especially with available tax incentives. While newer EVs offer longer ranges and faster charging, the Fusion Electric stands out for its balanced approach: it’s not trying to be the fastest or the flashiest, but rather a practical, dependable electric car that fits seamlessly into daily life.

For those considering a used purchase (as the Fusion Electric was discontinued after 2019), it remains a smart buy with low maintenance costs and proven reliability. Just ensure the battery has been well-maintained and check for any recall work (e.g., battery cooling system updates). In the evolving world of electric mobility, the Ford Fusion Electric proves that sometimes, perfection isn’t about having the most—it’s about having the right combination. If that’s what you’re looking for, this sedan deserves a top spot on your test-drive list.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range of the Ford Fusion Electric car on a single charge?

The Ford Fusion Electric offers an EPA-estimated range of 88 miles on a full charge, making it ideal for daily commutes and city driving. However, actual range may vary based on driving habits, terrain, and climate conditions.

How does the Ford Fusion Electric perform compared to gas-powered models?

The Ford Fusion Electric delivers smooth, instant torque with a quiet ride, outperforming gas models in acceleration at low speeds. While it lacks the long-range capabilities of gas versions, its efficiency and lower maintenance needs appeal to eco-conscious drivers.

What charging options are available for the Ford Fusion Electric?

The Ford Fusion Electric supports Level 1 (120V) and Level 2 (240V) charging, with a full charge taking 10-12 hours on Level 1 and 4-6 hours on Level 2. A DC fast charging option is not available on this model.

Does the Ford Fusion Electric have advanced safety features?

Yes, the Ford Fusion Electric includes advanced safety tech like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a rearview camera as standard. These features enhance driver confidence, especially in urban environments.

What are the standout tech features in the Ford Fusion Electric car review?

The Fusion Electric boasts an 8-inch touchscreen with SYNC 3 infotainment, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium Sony audio system. Its responsive interface and smartphone integration make it a tech-savvy choice in its class.

Is the Ford Fusion Electric a good value for the price?

With competitive pricing, tax incentives, and lower fuel costs, the Ford Fusion Electric offers solid value for budget-focused buyers. Its blend of performance, efficiency, and features makes it a strong contender in the used EV market.