AWD

Ford has given the Fusion an important edge in the mid-size sedan segment by offering an all wheel drive option for buyers. Usually, European and high end luxury sedans are the only vehicles to offer this sort of choice, something that neither the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord or Chevrolet Malibu include as options.

Better Handling And Control

All wheel drive is especially important for the driver who wants to maximize handling and control. In good road conditions, all wheel drive isn’t noticeable as the majority of the power is sent to the front wheels.

With challenging road conditions, all wheel drive becomes more apparent as the Ford’s system continuously monitors throttle position, steering angle and wheel speed to help balance the engine’s output to the wheel or wheels with the best traction. Working in conjunction with traction control, all wheel drive provides maximum control as needed.

AWD Available on SEL or Sport

Although the base Fusion starts at $19,270, that “S” package and next level “SE” package do not offer an all wheel drive option. Instead, you’ll need to select a higher end trim level, either the SEL or Sport to get all wheel drive.  That pushes the base price of a 3.0L V6 powered all wheel drive Ford Fusion up to $27,435 for the SEL or $27,675 for the Sport. That latter model is paired with Ford’s 3.5L V6.

Clearly, if you’re looking for an all wheel drive Fusion, you’ll have to get a car with a more ambitious trim level and settle for a V6 engine.  Figure on getting no better than 25 mpg on the highway instead of 34 mpg that the base I4 engine with six-speed automatic transmission offers. That can be a significant difference, but if improved handling and control are your requirements, than all wheel drive may be a worthwhile to you, especially in snow climates.