By Asian Journal Auto Editor

2018 Ford Fusion energi PIC 1The Fusion Hybrid and Fusion Energi are amongst the leading North American best-selling lineup mid-size hybrids and plug-in hybrid sedans. The Fusion line itself, being very extensive, with a model for every budget and need. All Fusions have four doors and seat five. The Fusion Energi differentiates itself being an electric plug-in hybrid model featuring a gas engine with a 7.6-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery paired with an electric motor for an expected range of 30 kilometers using electric power only. The car automatically switches to the fuel efficient 2.0-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder gasoline engine when the battery is depleted, allowing customers to drive more than 900 km. So, no issues of range anxiety!

The Fusion Energi is a plug-in version hybrid with a plug in port in the front driver side front fender that allows you to charge the Fusion Energi at electric- charging stations where they are available, or from your home office outlet. The Fusion Energi arrives in three well-equipped models; SE, Titanium and fully loaded Platinum version.  The Fusion is a sleek looking car with the mild revamp from 2017 model year leaving it with an expensive-looking Aston Martin style grill, new LED taillights and rear fascia to keep it fresh. The low-slung fastback roofline and the long silhouette give the Fusion an exotic premium look. Interior wise, an upmarket cabin design and the cool rotary-style shift selector makes for a classy, up market look. Ford’s new SYNC 3 with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is a big improvement on things.

2018 FORD FSUION ENERGI PIC 2Our beautiful looking Burgundy velvet metallic Platinum tester came with a gorgeous cream leather interior and all the upgrades on this model, including: sunroof, pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection, reverse sensing, blind-spot detection, heated and cooled front seats, heated steering wheel, voice-activated navigation, stitched instrument panel, LED headlights, 110 volt power outlet, and adaptive cruise with stop-and-go. Added to our tester was the Lane Keeping system and the Sony premium audio system with 12 speakers. The excellent Driver Assist package includes: automatic high-beam control, automatic wipers, the aforementioned a blind-spot monitoring system, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning and intervention, and a heated steering wheel. Also available are an automated parallel and perpendicular parking feature (includes front and side parking sensors).

On the road, the Fusion offer a calm, comfortable serene ride. The cabin is quiet and NVHV is pretty much absent. The high-quality cabin and numerous up-market feature give the Fusion a premium, dignified driving ambience. It’s no barnstormer in the performance stakes, being on the heavier side thanks to its battery and electric motor components, but the Energi offers smooth acceleration off the line thanks to the electric motors excellent torque. The hybrid power train is very refined with good transitions and a smooth power delivery. The Fusion Energi’s 2.0L Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder and electric motor produce 188 hp, combined and drive the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission. The Fusion can travel up to 30-35 kilometers on electric power alone, at speeds up to 136 kph.

Fuel economy is rated at LE/100km 2.4 city and 5.6 highway which is very impressive. It is important to note that there are also provincial government discounts for fuel efficient electric and hybrids cars which Fusion Energi buyers are eligible for. The rebates and incentives range from $4,000 to $2,500 according to where you live. In the BC can get up to $2,500 off or more a depending on dealer incentives and discounts, so it’s a pretty good deal. Downsides are few, if you want more power and acceleration look towards the hot rod V6 powered 325 Horsepower Fusion Sport model. Also note, due to the larger lithium -ion battery in the trunk cargo space is down to 226 litres. All in all, the Fusion Energi is an attractive, hybrid sedan with great fuel economy and features. The Platinum looks like a Lincoln inside with that awesome cream leather interior! Highly worth considering.

2018 Ford Fusion Energi Platinum Base pried from $45,088. Price as tested with options    delivery and destination $47,388.