Ford Shows 2010 Fusion and Fusion Hybrid in LA

Although it was announced a few weeks ago, the official launch of Ford's 2010 Fusion and Fusion Hybrid has captured attention of the whole automotive industry, especially since the US-based company promoted the new models days before the unveiling. Today, this long-expected moment finally took place, with Ford introducing the aforementioned models to people attending the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Basically, both Ford Fusion and Fusion Hybrid feature redesigned fronts and rears, with updated interiors and, more importantly, with four engine choices. The Fusion offers three engine variants, all of them particularly focused on fuel efficiency, according to a Ford statement released to the press: Duratec 2.5-liter I4, Duratec 3.0-liter V6 and the initial 3.5-liter V6 upgraded to 240 horsepower. The fourth engine is the hybrid 2.5-liter four-cylinder which works with an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission and provides a maximum power of 155 hp with an estimated torque of 136 lb-ft.

"With the new Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan hybrids, we are now able to offer even better range of travel on battery power at a greater speed, thanks to a more efficient, seamless transition between the battery-powered motor and gasoline-driven engine. These new hybrids will exceed expectations on all fronts – fuel efficiency, comfort, convenience and drivability,” Derrick Kuzak, Ford's group vice president of Global Product Development, commented on the new models.

Prices for the new models were not unveiled but Ford mentioned that Fusion is exclusively built at Ford's Hermosillo (Mexico) Stamping and Assembly Plant and is scheduled to arrive in authorized dealership as early as spring 2009.

"We're maintaining the fun-to-drive elements that made the Ford Fusion such a huge success and building on those," said Chief Engineer J.D. Shanahan. "Our 2010 models are even more fun to drive with better steering and handling. It's all exemplified by the Ford Fusion Sport with its 3.5-liter engine, 18-inch wheels and sport tuning."