Ford Fusion (Europe)

Infobox Automobile


name = Ford Fusion
manufacturer = Ford Motor Company
production = 2002–present
class = Mini MPV
body_style = 5-door hatchback
related = Ford Fiesta
Ford EcoSport
Mazda2
wheelbase = convert|2490|mm|in|1|abbr=on
length = convert|4020|mm|in|1|abbr=on
width = convert|1710|mm|in|1|abbr=on
height = convert|1500|mm|in|1|abbr=on

The European Ford Fusion is a stretched version of the Ford Fiesta, a supermini produced by Ford of Europe since 2002 and sold in Europe and India.

The design includes elements of both estates and multi-purpose vehicles. Its extra height compared with the Fiesta is due to both roof racks, increased ground clearance and taller roof, which makes it roomier and more comfortable for taller drivers than regular superminis, drawing it closer to mini MPVs.

A no-frills XUV version of the Fusion called the Ford EcoSport is produced in Brazil and sold in many Latin American countries. It is similar to the Fusion, but as any XUV it features an increased ride height, off-road suspension, larger wheels and dark bumpers. 1.0 turbo, 1.4, 1.6 and 2.0-litre Duratec petrol engines and 1.4-litre TDCi diesel engines with front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive are available.

Ford also used the name "Fusion" before the launch of the European Ford Focus, in communications with contractors working on elements of that model's launch publicity. Ford did not reveal whether the late change to "Focus" had been the result of a genuine change in its plans, or simply a desire to conceal the real name from the press until the company was ready for the launch.

The Fusion is an unconventional car which is difficult to define in a particular sector. Some buyerswho see it as a Compact MPV to rival the likes of the Vauxhall Meriva and Nissan Note, but somewho argue that it lacks the versatility of these models.

2005 model

In November 2005, a revised version of the Fusion went on sale. A number of cosmetic changes were introduced: both front and rear lights feature new detailing; and bumpers, side mouldings and door mirrors were also altered. Furthermore, a bright new colour palette was introduced.

Inside, the dashboard featured both a new design, and better quality 'soft touch' materials, following criticisms of the hard, cheaply textured original. A new analogue instrument display features in a style similar to the Mk 2 Ford Focus.

New technology was also made available, including power folding mirrors, automatic and 'home-safe' headlights, automatic windscreen wipers, Bluetooth with voice control, Trip computer, MP3 player connectivity and the Electronic Stability Program.

Fusion sales are strong, with Ford stating that the car accounts for fifteen per cent of sales in its sector [ [http://www.fordeurope.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=4226 FordEurope.net :: View topic - Ford's latest small cars turn into best sellers ] ] .

In the United Kingdom, the car is available in Style, Style Climate, Zetec Climate and '+' trim levels.

In media

In the 2002 Top gear awards, it won the Most Pointless Car for, as Richard Hammond described it, "it is a Ford Fiesta, in a hat."

References

External links

* [http://www.ford.co.uk/ie/fusion%20/ Official Ford Fusion website for the United Kingdom]