Ford Fusion (Europe)

Ford Fusion
Manufacturer Ford Motor Company
Production 2002–2011
Assembly Cologne, Germany
Chennai, India
Successor Ford B-MAX
Class Mini SUV
Crossover (automobile)
Mini MPV
Body style 5-door hatchback
Engine 1.4L I4
1.6L I4
1.4L I4 TDCi
1.6L I4 TDCi
Transmission 4-speed automatic
5-speed automatic
5-speed manual
Wheelbase 2,490 mm (98.0 in)
Length 4,020 mm (158.3 in)
Width 1,710 mm (67.3 in)
Height 1,500 mm (59.1 in)
Related Ford Fiesta
Ford EcoSport
Mazda2

The European Ford Fusion is a stretched version of the Ford Fiesta 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 and mini SUVs.

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.1.6 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.

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 high-quality 'soft touch' materials. A new analogue instrument display features in a style similar to the Mk 2 Ford Focus.

Advanced 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.[1]

In the United Kingdom, the car is currently available in Style+, Zetec and Titanium trim levels. (1, 2, 3 and '+' were the trim levels for the original Fusion).

Equipment on the entry-level 1 included a cassette player, central locking, and dual front airbags. The 2 featured electric heated mirrors, electric front windows, a CD player and air conditioning. The 3 added alloy wheels, front fog lights and an alarm. The + model added larger alloys and privacy glass. This + model was introduced in May 2002.

Ford is bringing out a new Mini MPV called the B-MAX in 2012. It will have no pillars between the doors, giving a panoramic view from inside the car. It is believed that this glass will be shatter resistant and extra tough in case of an accident.

In media

In the 2002 Top Gear Awards it won the Most Pointless Car for being, as Richard Hammond described it, "a Ford Fiesta, in a hat."

See also

References

  1. ^ by d-fens » 17-12-07 20:16 (2007-12-17). "View topic - Ford's latest small cars turn into best sellers". FordEurope.net. http://www.fordeurope.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=4226. Retrieved 2010-10-05. 

External links