The Fusion is available with a choice of V6 and four-cylinder engines. The four-cylinder comes with a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. The V6 comes with a six-speed automatic, a feature associated with top-end luxury cars. Both engines provide adequate power and fuel economy though they are outperformed by the engines offered by several competitors.

Fusion's ride quality is as good as any car in the class, save perhaps the Toyota Camry. Available all-wheel drive and a new sport package make fine handling even better.

The cabin is comfortable and well designed with controls that are intuitive and easy to operate. The center dash is not beautiful, however, and the interior looks classier in the lighter colors.

Crisp lines, big headlights and a bold, chrome grille give the Fusion a distinctive appearance that we find attractive.

For 2008, the Fusion gets new features and options. An optional Sport Appearance Package comes with a firmer suspension and sporty interior and exterior styling cues. Antilock brakes and a tire-pressure monitor are now standard, while rear obstacle detection becomes an option. Ford's Sync communications and entertainment system is offered for the first time, and the available navigation system adds voice activation.