Ford Fusion Plus

The Ford Fusion Plus is a mini MPV that was manufactured by Ford Europe and assembled in India at Fords Chennai plant from 2002 to 2012. It is built on the Ford B3 platform, sharing its underpinnings with the Ford Fiesta Mk5. This vehicle features a 5-door hatchback design with a high roof, providing ample space and comfort for five passengers. The Fusion Plus comes with a range of engine options, including 1.4 and 1.6-liter petrol engines and 1.4 and 1.6-liter TDCi diesel engines. Transmission options include 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic, along with the DuraShift-EST automated manual transmission. Key features include keyless entry, central locking, air conditioner, rear AC vents, and a digital odometer. The vehicles tall configuration and theatre-style seating enhance its practicality and comfort, making it a versatile choice for urban driving.

In India, the Ford Fusion Plus was priced competitively during its production run. The ex-showroom prices ranged from approximately Rs. 5.94 lakh for the base 1.6 Duratec Petrol model to Rs. 6.83 lakh for the top-of-the-line 1.4 TDCi Diesel model. On-road prices would have been slightly higher, factoring in taxes, registration, and other local charges, likely ranging from Rs. 6.5 lakh to Rs. 7.5 lakh. Given its features and performance, the Fusion Plus offered good value for money, especially considering its spacious interior and fuel-efficient engine options.

The Ford Fusion Plus boasts impressive mileage figures, making it a cost-effective choice for daily driving. The Manual Diesel variant delivers a mileage of 17.7 kmpl, while the Manual Petrol variant offers 13.6 kmpl. These figures are quite competitive in their segment, ensuring lower running costs and making the Fusion Plus an attractive option for those concerned about fuel efficiency.

The Ford Fusion Plus, although discontinued, remains a notable option for those seeking a versatile and practical vehicle. My experience with this car highlights its unique blend of a small hatchback, MPV, and SUV design elements, making it an Urban Activity Vehicle as Ford marketed it. The Fusion Plus offers enhanced roominess, high h-point seating, and a flexible interior with features like 6040 folding rear seats and a fold-flat front passenger seat. However, its lack of aggressive marketing and the absence of all-wheel drive might have limited its appeal. Despite this, the Fusion Plus is a solid choice for urban driving, offering a comfortable ride and decent performance from its engine options.

The Ford Fusion has been discontinued by Ford, marking the end of an era for this popular midsize sedan. This decision is part of Fords strategy to focus on other models and electric vehicles. I think this move will be felt by loyal Fusion owners, but it opens the door for new adventures with other Ford models.

Despite its discontinuation, the Ford Fusion remains a favorite for its blend of style, efficiency, and performance. The 2024 model, though not available in India, was praised for its fuel efficiency, with an estimated EPA rating of 44 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway. This kind of efficiency would have been a great asset in the Indian market.

The Ford Fusion Hybrid was known for its advanced safety features, including Ford’s Co-Pilot360 system, which includes automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. These features made it a safe choice for families and daily commuters. I believe such safety features are crucial in any vehicle, especially in Indian road conditions.

The interior of the Ford Fusion was designed for comfort and convenience, with premium materials and a spacious cabin. Features like wireless charging and a state-of-the-art infotainment system made it a luxurious ride. If this were available in India, it would have been a strong contender in the midsize sedan market.

The Ford Fusion came in various trims, each offering different levels of features and amenities. The Titanium trim, for instance, offered all the bells and whistles, including leather-trimmed seats and a premium sound system. This kind of customization would have appealed to many Indian buyers.