How Does the Ford Fusion Rate in Electric Cars 2019 A Full Review

The 2019 Ford Fusion is not a fully electric car, but its plug-in hybrid variant, the Fusion Energi, offers a competitive 26 miles of all-electric range—ideal for short commutes. While it lags behind pure EVs in efficiency and range, it stands out with a refined ride, spacious interior, and smooth transition between gas and electric power, making it a practical choice for eco-conscious drivers not ready to go fully electric.

Key Takeaways

• Limited EV range: The 2019 Fusion Energi offers only 26 miles of electric-only driving.
• Strong hybrid efficiency: Delivers up to 42 mpg combined in hybrid mode.
• Outdated infotainment: SYNC 3 system lags behind newer EV tech interfaces.
• Spacious interior: Roomy cabin and trunk outperform many compact EVs.
• No fast charging: Requires 2.5+ hours for a full Level 2 recharge.
• Affordable option: Lower price than most 2019 pure electric vehicles.

How Does the Ford Fusion Rate in Electric Cars 2019? A Full Review

Let me take you back to a crisp autumn morning in 2019. I was standing in a dealership, coffee in hand, staring at a sleek blue Ford Fusion Hybrid parked next to a Tesla Model 3. The salesperson smiled and said, “You’re torn between a legacy automaker and a tech giant, aren’t you?” He wasn’t wrong. The Ford Fusion wasn’t an all-electric car, but it was Ford’s answer to the growing demand for electrified vehicles—offering hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions. At a time when EVs like the Nissan Leaf and Chevy Bolt were gaining traction, the Fusion stood as a bridge between gas-powered comfort and electric efficiency.

So, how does the Ford Fusion rate in electric cars 2019? That’s the question on many minds, especially for drivers who want fuel savings without committing to a full EV. In this review, I’ll break down the Fusion’s electric performance, tech, comfort, and real-world usability. Whether you’re a city commuter, a road-tripper, or just curious about Ford’s hybrid strategy, this deep dive will help you decide if the 2019 Fusion Hybrid or Energi (PHEV) deserves a spot in your driveway. Spoiler: it’s not perfect, but it’s got charm, practicality, and a few clever tricks up its sleeve.

Electric Powertrain: Hybrid vs. Plug-In Hybrid (Energi)

The Hybrid: A Smooth Daily Driver

The 2019 Ford Fusion Hybrid runs on a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor. Combined, they deliver 188 horsepower—enough to feel zippy in city traffic but not exactly a speed demon on the highway. What makes it special is the seamless transition between gas and electric power. Ford’s e-CVT (electronically controlled continuously variable transmission) keeps things quiet and smooth. I tested it on a 30-mile round-trip commute: the Fusion used only 1.2 gallons of gas, thanks to its ability to run on electric-only mode at low speeds (up to 85 mph, though realistically, it’s best under 45 mph).

Pro tip: Use the “L” (Low) gear for regenerative braking. It’s like one-pedal driving—lift off the gas, and the car slows down significantly, capturing energy back into the battery. Great for stop-and-go traffic!

The Energi: Plug-In Flexibility

The Fusion Energi is the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version, with a larger 9 kWh lithium-ion battery. It offers 26 miles of all-electric range—enough to cover most daily commutes without using a drop of gas. I charged mine overnight with a standard 120V outlet (took ~7 hours), but a 240V Level 2 charger cut that to ~2.5 hours. On a weekend trip to a nearby beach town (32 miles round-trip), I drove the entire way on electricity, saving about $4 in gas. Not life-changing, but satisfying.

Once the battery depletes, the Energi switches to hybrid mode, averaging 42 MPG—still impressive. However, the battery takes up trunk space, reducing cargo room from 16 cu. ft. (Hybrid) to 12 cu. ft. (Energi). If you’re a road-tripper who hauls gear, this trade-off matters.

Real-World Efficiency: What the Numbers Don’t Tell You

EPA ratings:
– Hybrid: 43 MPG city / 41 MPG highway
– Energi: 100 MPGe (electric + gas) / 42 MPG (gas-only)

In reality, I averaged 40 MPG in the Hybrid and 95 MPGe in the Energi (with 20-25 miles of electric use daily). Cold weather dropped the Energi’s electric range to ~18 miles, which is common for PHEVs. Bottom line: The Fusion isn’t a Tesla, but it’s a smart compromise for drivers who want electric benefits without range anxiety.

Interior & Tech: Comfort Meets Convenience

Spacious Cabin: A Win for Families

The Fusion’s interior feels more like a luxury sedan than a midsize hybrid. Soft-touch materials, supportive seats, and a quiet cabin make long drives a breeze. I’m 6’1”, and I had no trouble stretching out in the driver’s seat. The rear seats are equally roomy—my 10-year-old nephew called it “the grown-up car” (high praise from a kid obsessed with minivans).

The trunk in the Hybrid is cavernous (16 cu. ft.), but the Energi’s battery shrinks it to 12 cu. ft. If you’re a parent with a stroller or a golfer with clubs, the Hybrid is the better pick. The Energi’s trunk is still usable, but bulky items like a suitcase or a large cooler might not fit.

Infotainment: Sync 3 Is a Mixed Bag

All 2019 Fusion models come with Ford’s Sync 3 system. It’s a big upgrade from older versions, with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and voice recognition. The interface is intuitive—I paired my phone in seconds, and the navigation system never froze (a rarity in 2019). But the screen is a fingerprint magnet, and the voice commands can be finicky. Example: “Call Mom” worked 80% of the time; the other 20%, it thought I said “Call Tom.”

Hidden gem: The Fusion’s climate control has a “driver only” mode, which saves energy by heating/cooling just the driver’s side. Great for solo commutes!

Driver Aids: Safety Tech That Works

The 2019 Fusion offers Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite (optional on lower trims, standard on Titanium and above). This includes:

• Blind-spot monitoring
• Lane-keeping assist
• Automatic emergency braking
• Adaptive cruise control

I tested the adaptive cruise on a 2-hour highway drive. The Fusion maintained a safe distance from the car ahead, even in light rain. The lane-keeping assist nudged me back into the center when I drifted (intentionally, for testing). It’s not as advanced as Tesla’s Autopilot, but it’s reliable and easy to use.

Performance & Handling: The Drive Experience

Smooth, Not Sporty

The Fusion isn’t a sports sedan, and Ford doesn’t pretend it is. The steering is light and precise, perfect for city driving. The suspension soaks up bumps like a champ—I drove over a pothole-riddled road in my neighborhood, and the cabin barely shuddered. But push it hard on twisty roads, and you’ll notice body roll. This car is built for comfort, not corner-carving.

The electric motor adds a nice punch from a stoplight. The Fusion Hybrid hits 60 mph in ~7.5 seconds, which feels quick for a hybrid. The Energi is slightly heavier (due to the bigger battery), so it’s a bit slower (~8 seconds), but still responsive.

Braking: The Regen Factor

Like most hybrids, the Fusion uses regenerative braking. This means the electric motor helps slow the car, reducing wear on the physical brakes. I loved how the “L” gear mode made city driving feel effortless. But the brake pedal has a spongy feel at first—it takes a few miles to get used to the blend of regen and friction braking. Once you adapt, it’s smooth sailing.

Road Noise: A Minor Complaint

The cabin is quiet, but not silent. At highway speeds, tire noise creeps in, especially on rough pavement. The Hybrid is quieter than the Energi, likely because the latter’s heavier battery changes the car’s weight distribution. For comparison, my friend’s 2019 Toyota Camry Hybrid was quieter at 70 mph. Not a dealbreaker, but worth noting if you value silence.

Charging & Practicality: What You Need to Know

Charging the Energi: Home vs. Public

The Fusion Energi charges via a standard J1772 port. Here’s what you need to know:

• Level 1 (120V): 7 hours for a full charge (fine for overnight).
• Level 2 (240V): 2.5 hours (ideal if you have a home charger).
• Public charging: Works at most non-Tesla stations, but the 9 kWh battery charges quickly, so you won’t need to linger.

I charged at a grocery store with a Level 2 charger while shopping. In 45 minutes, I got 12 miles of range—enough for my errands. Tip: Use the FordPass app to find nearby chargers and check battery status remotely.

Gas vs. Electric: When to Use Which

The Energi defaults to electric mode first. When the battery runs out, it switches to hybrid. You can also manually select “Hold” mode to save battery for later (e.g., saving electric power for city driving). I used this on a highway trip: drove 100 miles on gas, then switched to electric for the last 20 miles through downtown. Saved about $2 in gas and reduced emissions.

Watch out: In cold weather, the Energi’s engine may kick in to heat the cabin, even with battery power. This can cut electric range by 20-30%.

Maintenance: Low Cost, But Not Zero

Hybrids have fewer moving parts than gas cars, so maintenance is cheaper. The Fusion’s brake pads last longer (thanks to regen braking), and oil changes are needed less often. However, the battery and electric motor require occasional checks. Ford recommends a “hybrid system inspection” every 15,000 miles. Cost: ~$100 at a dealership. Not bad, but not free.

Price & Value: Is the Fusion Worth It?

Trim Levels & Pricing

The 2019 Fusion Hybrid started at $27,555; the Energi at $34,755 (before tax credits). Higher trims (SE, Titanium, Platinum) added luxury features like leather seats, a sunroof, and premium audio. Here’s a quick comparison:

Trim	Starting Price	Key Features	Best For
Hybrid SE	$27,555	Sync 3, 17″ wheels, rearview camera	Budget-conscious buyers
Hybrid Titanium	$33,555	Leather seats, Sony audio, Co-Pilot360	Families wanting comfort
Energi SE	$34,755	26-mile electric range, dual-zone climate	Daily commuters
Energi Platinum	$40,755	Heated/cooled seats, adaptive cruise, sunroof	Luxury seekers

Note: The Energi qualifies for a $4,000 federal tax credit (as of 2019), which brings the effective price down to $30,755. Some states (like California) offered additional rebates, making it even cheaper.

Resale Value: A Weak Spot

The Fusion’s resale value lags behind rivals like the Toyota Camry Hybrid. A 2019 Fusion Hybrid in good condition might sell for ~$15,000 after 3 years, while a Camry Hybrid holds ~$17,000. The Energi fares worse due to its niche PHEV status. If you plan to keep the car long-term, this isn’t a big deal. If you flip cars every few years, consider the Camry or Honda Accord Hybrid.

Competition: How It Stacks Up

The Fusion’s main rivals in 2019 were:

• Toyota Camry Hybrid: More reliable, better resale, but less fun to drive.
• Honda Accord Hybrid: Sportier, with a 50 MPG rating, but pricier.
• Chevy Volt (PHEV): 53-mile electric range, but smaller trunk and dated interior.

The Fusion strikes a balance: it’s more stylish than the Camry, more practical than the Volt, and more affordable than the Accord.

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the 2019 Ford Fusion?

So, how does the Ford Fusion rate in electric cars 2019? It’s not the most efficient, the most advanced, or the most luxurious hybrid out there. But it’s a well-rounded package that delivers on its promises: comfort, efficiency, and value. The Hybrid is ideal for drivers who want to cut gas costs without charging hassles. The Energi shines for short commutes, letting you drive electric most days.

Who it’s for:

• City commuters (Energi’s 26-mile range covers most daily drives).
• Families (spacious cabin, safety tech, and trunk space in the Hybrid).
• First-time hybrid buyers (user-friendly tech and smooth driving dynamics).

Who should skip it:

• Road warriors (limited electric range; better MPG in the Camry/Accord).
• Tech enthusiasts (Sync 3 is good, but not cutting-edge).
• Minimalists (the Energi’s smaller trunk might be a dealbreaker).

After a year of driving the 2019 Fusion Hybrid, I’m sold on Ford’s approach. It’s a car that doesn’t demand attention but rewards you with reliability, comfort, and a little electric spark. If you’re on the fence about electrification, the Fusion is a gentle nudge in the right direction. And hey, if you find a good deal on a used Energi, grab it—just don’t expect Tesla-level thrills. In the end, the Fusion proves that sometimes, the best electric car is the one that doesn’t need to shout about being electric.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Ford Fusion rate in electric cars for 2019 compared to competitors?

The 2019 Ford Fusion Energi (plug-in hybrid) offers a competitive 26 miles of electric-only range and strong fuel efficiency (103 MPGe), but it falls short of pure electric cars like the Tesla Model 3 in range and performance. It’s a solid choice for buyers wanting a hybrid with EV capability without full electrification.

What is the electric range of the 2019 Ford Fusion Energi?

The 2019 Ford Fusion Energi delivers an EPA-estimated 26 miles of electric-only range on a full charge, after which it switches to hybrid mode (42 mpg combined). This makes it ideal for short commutes but less suited for long-distance EV driving.

Is the 2019 Ford Fusion a full electric car or a hybrid?

The 2019 Ford Fusion is not a full electric car; it’s a plug-in hybrid (Fusion Energi) with a gasoline engine and a battery for electric driving. Unlike EVs, it requires both charging and gasoline to operate efficiently.

How does the Ford Fusion rate in electric cars 2019 for charging speed?

The 2019 Ford Fusion Energi takes about 2.5 hours to fully charge using a 240V Level 2 charger, or roughly 7 hours with a standard 120V outlet. While not the fastest, it’s sufficient for overnight charging at home.

What are the downsides of the 2019 Ford Fusion as an electric car?

Limited electric range, a cramped rear seat due to battery placement, and outdated infotainment tech are key drawbacks. Additionally, the Fusion Energi lacks the advanced driver aids and charging network access found in dedicated EVs.

Is the 2019 Ford Fusion Energi worth buying for eco-conscious drivers?

Yes, if you prioritize a smooth transition from gas to electric and need a roomy sedan. The Fusion Energi’s 26-mile EV mode and hybrid efficiency (42 mpg) make it a practical, eco-friendly option for city drivers, though pure EVs offer greener benefits.