Car Review: 2014 Ford Fusion Energi SE

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Ford has been going gangbusters lately in both sales and market share, and much of that can be attributed to the Blue Oval’s relentless efforts to be one of the leaders in fuel efficient cars. The new and forward-thinking 2014 Ford Fusion Energi SE is just one of many vehicles that Ford is rolling out to keep the momentum going and the competition wondering what will be next. We were fortunate to drive this Fusion Energi for a week to really learn and appreciate how new technologies are moving the auto industry forward.

EXTERIOR

The exterior of the 2014 Ford Fusion Energi SE isn’t a whole lot different from the standard Fusion other than some badges. Our test model, however, looked very sharp with features such as 17-inch aluminum rims, auto halogen headlamps, easy fuel capless filler, fog lamps, integrated spotter mirrors, keyless entry key pad and power folding heated mirrors. The dark side paint was extra clean, and with the new, low front end and fastback rear, this Fusion was ready for action.

INTERIOR

The new cabin for the 2014 Ford Fusion Energi SE is something that can generally only be found in much more expensive cars, and that might have something to do with the big sales numbers coming in for this new Ford offering. Our test model was absolutely loaded with options, such as 10-way heated driver’s seat, leather seating all around, dual zone electric climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and Sirius satellite. The dashboard is unique with all of the electric and gas information in clear view to keep the driver up to date with the powertrain. With the large battery, trunk space is drastically reduced.

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PERFORMANCE

This is where the 2014 Ford Fusion Energi SE separates herself from the other Fusion offerings and many of the rival mid-size sedans on the road. Also, it takes a matter of seconds to plug in and charge the Energi, which is an advancement from others in the marketplace. The all-new Fusion Energi has an EPA-rated total range of up to 620 miles and the ability to drive up to 21 miles in electric-only mode, nearly triple the electric-only range of plug-in hybrids from competitors. And the stellar range only adds to the benefits Fusion Energi boasts, including EPA-rated fuel economy figures of 108 MPGe city, 92 MPGe highway and 100 MPGe combined. These are numbers that the EPA anticipates could help save customers an estimated $6,850 in fuel costs compared with an average new car over the course of five years. That is big bucks my friends!

Consider the 2014 Ford Fusion Energi SE top electric-only speed of 85 mph and delivers total horsepower of 195 with a fully charged battery there is also driving fun with this car. There is also something really cool about driving in electric mode, and until one experiences this for themselves, you can’t fully appreciate this technology. The transition from electric to gas power is smooth, and when the 2.0L engine takes charge, power is more than ample as well.

Fusion Energi sets itself apart in other ways, too. For example, it offers the latest generation of SmartGauge with EcoGuide. Designed to help drivers get the most from Fusion, information such as instantaneous fuel economy can be displayed on one of two 4.2-inch LCD screens, helping drivers more closely monitor how their driving behavior affects vehicle efficiency. In the right cluster, redesigned imagery of green leaves shows overall driving efficiency. The left cluster can display numerous screens that contain information about the vehicle and how it’s being driven. Brake Coach, for example, helps drivers optimize their use of the regenerative braking system so that driving range can be maximized through proper braking techniques.

OVERVIEW

The fuel economy figures of the 2014 Ford Fusion Energi SE could only be something from a wish list just a few years ago, and for a total price tag of $40,585 as tested, this plug-in will find plenty of likes out there. The great looks of the all-new Fusion is a big plus, as some of the other plug-ins in the market have a lot to be desired when it comes to design and appearance.