Like much of its eventual competition, it starts and readies for launch in total silence as things get fired up. In the process, an interesting reconfigurable display glimmers to life, putting vital economy and drivetrain power-flow data on display to the user's specification. Four display modes are available, depending on how much data you'd care to see. There's even a virtual tree that grows leaves when you follow the 'Eco Guide' driving coach to save fuel.

Eerie and quiet, electric-only acceleration lasts to about 70 km/h if you're gentle on the throttle, representing twice the terminal electric velocity of some competitors. The gas engine fires up as needed quickly, though not without the typical squirm felt through the driveline as internal combustion comes into play. When not pushed, the engine is nearly silent--meaning it switches itself off during deceleration in total secrecy.

The switching and combining of power brings the Camry Hybrid to mind. Fusion can carry more electric-only speed and withstand a touch more throttle pressure before engaging the pistons and fuel injectors--though in all, it's not a truly seamless and transparent process for those paying attention. Still, it'll make hybrid aficionados appreciate how far the technology has come.

Visibility is good, seats are comfy and the ride is notably quiet.

Once you're settled nicely into the realm of green driving, the Fusion's new interior can be appreciated. Ice-blue illumination looks great, and the tester came with navigation, automatic climate control, power seats and more. Designers have enhanced the use of soft touch materials and premium surfaces throughout the cabin, and I noted more knee room than the last model, too. Visibility is good, seats are comfy and the ride is notably quiet --even on some of Dearborn, Michigan's roughest sideroads.

Power delivery is torquey and eager off the line, and acceleration is brisk when requested. Most impressive is passing power, though. Things really get moving up over the 100 km/h mark, though the car remains composed, solid and refined if drivers wish to relax. Brakes have the typical artificial feel that tends to come with most hybrids, though they pretend to be fairly precise and well weighted.

Same deal for the steering. A BMW it is not, though it's weighted well for the application and proves happy to be explored.

At first glance it seems Ford's got a good thing on the go here. They're late to the hybrid sedan party, but with the benchmark already set by the competition, there's a real opportunity to raise the bar in this market--and it looks like Fusion Hybrid is moving in for the kill. Of course, the real-world mileage figures achieved by consumers will tell the rest of this story.

Expect the new Fusion and Fusion Hybrid in showrooms this spring.


Photo Credit : Justin Prichard