3rd place (tie) - 2010 Ford Fusion SEL (77.9%)
A tie! There are 8 categories to vote in and a total of 31 sub-sections that receive scores between 1 and 10 (although we very rarely give 10s). Given this, the odds that a pair of automobiles would be tied were improbable. Excuse me while I go and purchase a lottery ticket... This result only reinforces the title of this comparative test; the gaps are shrinking.

Loaded with options, the Fusion is the most expensive as-tested car in the group, but a base SEL is still pretty well equipped. (photo: Philippe Champoux/Auto123.com)

The Fusion has a love-it-or-hate-it presence. Its styling is by far the most conventional of the group. One tester even added that the grille could readily be transplanted on a pickup. Most enjoy the car's design both inside and out. What is clear is that the Fusion is the better-looking car amongst its American competition. The cabin is also traditional in its layout, but in typical Ford fashion, many controls are small and too low.

The seats get high marks for their high level of solace and the ease with which ingress and egress is performed. Fit and finish are worthy of writing home about, as is the size of the trunk given the Fusion's slightly more compact dimensions. The Ford took the safety category thanks in large part to the car's best-in-this-class overall visibility.

Motivation duties are carried out by a 175-hp 2.5L which doesn't back down from a challenge. The 6-speed transmission is geared for leisurely drives and, then again, so is the Fusion's suspension. The car's ride caters to those looking for a smooth ride without sacrificing that controlled feeling. Steering precision is fair with decent feedback, but the brakes fail to impress with the longest stopping distances. Be that as it may, brake pedal feel is empowering.

Being the most expensive as-tested car in this test, some flack was thrown its way but a base SEL, still pretty well equipped, would be a smarter purchase.

"The Fusion is the Jack-of-all-trades in this group. It's not the sportiest but not the softest, either; it drives well, performs well and delivers good fuel economy. In my opinion, it's the second-best value in the group behind the Sonata. Finally, a domestic sedan that does almost everything right." - Michel Deslauriers

	0-100 km/h (sec)	1/4 mile (sec@km/h)	100-0 (meters)	Fuel Economy (L/100 km)
Fusion	9.4	16.3 @ 139	52	9.2
Accord	10.3	17.3 @ 132	48	9.5
Sonata	9.2	16.5 @ 138	44	10.1
Mazda6	9.3	16.7 @ 130	45	9.4
Legacy	9.5	16.6 @ 135	46	9.7
Kizashi	10.6	17.8 @ 130	39	10.8
Camry	9.2	16.4 @ 138	46	9.5