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The Ford Fusion has gone through a significant fine-tuning for 2017. While the upgrades are many, none will affect buyers more than on the interior, where a new rotary shifter has been added. This one change frees up lots of space and convenience in the center console.
Fusion also gains a new top level Platinum trim, boasting more standard luxury touches than ever before. But even better news for those of us that still enjoy driving is the new Fusion Sport. It adopts the Edge Sport's twin-turbo 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 rated at 325-horsepower. A new 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shift is included, as is all-wheel- drive. Shifts are firm but smooth and the AWD system really helps rotate the car around corners. Basic suspension hardware is thoroughly addressed with stiffer springs, bigger anti-roll bars, and wider tires on 19-inch dark-finish alloys. Summer-only tires are also available.
Still, it is the solenoid-based continuous damping control that intrigued us most. It's a first for the segment, with pothole detection that instantly adjusts fluid flow to minimize impact. When Sport mode is selected, reaction becomes even faster. It also tweaks steering feel, transmission shifts, throttle response, and even exhaust note. As for how the Fusion Sport improves your driveway's style; it does away with the typical Fusion Aston Martin-inspired grille. In its place is a glossy black mesh unit, the centerpiece of a totally new front fascia that has a much more aggressive look. In back there are quad exhaust outlets and a spoiler across the deck lid.
On the inside you will find upgraded sport seats with suede inserts, along with carbon fiber-like trim. There is one final update. Most 2017 Fusion trim levels can be ordered with the latest in advance safety systems, including automatic emergency braking.
For our complete test of the 2017 Ford Fusion Sport, be sure to catch MotorWeek episode #3610 that begins airing on November 12, 2016. For a listing of the public television stations that broadcast MotorWeek, go to motorweek.org and click the "About The Show" tab at the top. MotorWeek is also seen Tuesday evenings on the Velocity cable network. Our first impressions are that the 2017 Fusion Sport raises the performance bar for mainstream four-doors to almost European Luxury-Sport levels. It is worthy of praise, and a "don't miss" for family car
