MEGATech Videos: The 2017 Ford Fusion Drive Michael Kwan July 27, 2016 MEGATech Videos, News We were invited by Ford Canada last week to take the brand new 2017 Ford Fusion out for an extended test drive. During our round-trip between Vancouver International Airport and Harrison Hot Springs a couple of hours ago, we familiarized ourselves with the incredible wealth of features that this mid-sized sedan has to offer. Competing in a segment alongside vehicles like the Toyota Camry and the Honda Accord, the Ford Fusion actually came out on top as the best seller recently and Ford really wanted to build upon this success with the newest iteration. In taking feedback from the community, they learned that most people were already quite pleased with the exterior. They just wanted more features, more refinement and more comfort on the inside. What I can say after driving the car for a couple hour is that it really does have a lot to offer. Ford continues to throw the kitchen sink with its vehicles. Want heated and cooled seats? How about a lane-keeping system that vibrates the steering wheel when you start to drift? A smart GPS system that will reroute based on current traffic conditions? Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support? Multi-way adjustable seats, including power lumbar support? That’s all in there and it’s remarkably comfortable. There are a few curious design choices that Ford made along the way. The traditional shift knob has been replaced by a rotary dial and the e-brake has been replaced by an electric lever. The rationale is that this frees up substantial space in the center console, making it easier for to reach into the compartment in front. They’ve even put a slot specifically for your smartphone. (Please don’t play Pokemon GO while driving.) Initially, I wasn’t such a big fan of the rotary dial, but the added space in the center really did grow on me. A lot has changed since we did the Ford Focus Challenge a few years ago (you might remember our more comprehensive review too). In the case of the Ford Fusion, you get a wealth of engine choices and trim levels. We started with a 2.0L EcoBoost with AWD in the Titanium trim. This provided both comfort and performance that is well suited as a daily driver. For the more eco-conscious, the 2.0L Hybrid is a more interesting choice. Combined with the electric motor, regenerative braking and eCVT, this puts out an effective range well north of 900 km. The ride is decidedly softer and performance is more subdued, but that’s the price you pay for going so long between visits to the pump. There’s also the smaller 1.5L Ecoboost engine, as well as a 2.7L V6 Sport for 325 horsepower and the “Energi” plug-in electric. The video of our Ford Fusion driving experience has been embedded above for your viewing pleasure. Yes, there is cool drone footage in there too. The 2017 Ford Fusion is available now with prices starting around $22,000 and going up to about $45,000 depending on your powertrain, trim and optional equipment. Both the 2.0L Ford Fusion Titanium AWD and the Ford Fusion Hybrid Titanium as tested were close to the top of this range. Share This With The World!
