Well this morning the car transport pulled up and there she was, the first Fusion for our lots.

I already nicknamed her the "Camry Killer."

Fully loaded SEL V6... MSRP = $24,845 Amazing!!!

 

Did you get a chance to drive them?

 

Its going through PDI (inspection) right now but as soon as its done I'll take it for a spin and let you know

 

sweet, make sure to take some pics too. And hey, it sounds like a dumb question, but its got 60/40 seats right? I guess most cars have them, maybe its just that its not worth mentioning anymore that i haven't heard.

 

Yep, 60/40. They release by two levers in the trunk like the Focus but they go down by themselves (spring loaded) so you don't have to run around if you have a heavy item. Its an idea that seems so simple but it makes life a bit easier.

I must say my favorite thing about the car is the grill and front end. Its just so classy and sporty looking at the same time.

 

It looks VERY MUCH like a slightly sportier Civic to me:






...with a less refined Cadillac CTS-style front end:






For this highly anticipated entry into Ford's lineup, I would've liked to see something a bit more original.

 

I fail to see any likeness to the CTS at all. The headlights are smooth and swept back while the CTS's are blocky. While the back may look slightly similar to the Civic the tailights, rear fascia, and stance are not even close to me.

This is actually where the design came from Ford 427 Concept

So to me this is totally original considering the design was presented in a slightly different form 3 model years ago.

 

I think the headlights on the Fusion look like they are directly from a Mountaineer

 

Rear looks more like Focus than Civic.



And Andy ... forget about "Camry killer" part.

 

Man, that 427 concept is KILLER! They should produce it!

 

The grill shape and lower fascia are completely different is well.

 

With me at the helm never!!!!

In all seriousness the whole industry needs to start picking up. Its just a really rough time right now with the gas scare, sales ending, and other factors for the economy. It will get better in time, I just want it to be sooner!

 

That car will be succes (I hope), but there is no way Ford is going to sell 400,000 of them. It is nice car, but there is not way it could beat Camry.

 

You never know man, its just so hard to tell when it comes to the economy. It fluctuates at such an odd pace that its almost impossible to predict. Heck, we could see an increase in the sale of SUV's again with all of the new technology coming about.

They said the same thing about the Taurus too. Time will tell. I think we stand a good chance. The only thing I can do is just do my best to sell the product.

 

How is the Fusion "less refined"? The grille and headlights are more smoothly integrated into the car on the Fusion. The CTS grill looks kind of stuck on, and the CTS lower fascia looks like its part of a tacked on aftermarket body kit.

 

Hey Andy, we should be getting our first Fusion tomorrow, and maybe have 3 by the weekend. I am so waiting to drive one. From all the previews drives in the auto publications, the car will be a hit.

BTW, did you get the info on the Ride and Drive for the sales people. Its on November 8th, in King of Prussia. I'm set to go that day for the early session (9:30 -Noon). If you haven't heard, ask your manager, and get the same time. These things are fun to go to, especially when they have the competition there. Usally, John Davis, from Motorweek is there to demonstrate the car. Hit me up with a call or PM to let me know if you can go.

 

 

I do like the Fusion and if I wasn't trying to pay off the Focus early , I'd consider one.

Comparing the styling of the Fusion to the CTS is really a compliment given the price point differences of the two cars. If Ford could offer a more refined V6 and a Hybrid option they would definitely have a chance at unseating the Camry. Time will tell

 

Hey Jeff, yeah I think I'm going on the 8th also. I'll check with my manager tommorow on when I'm going and see if I can go on the early trip.

I just got back from test driving the Fusion and all I can say is WOW!
The engine is so responsive its amazing. When you step on it the car is not afraid to go all the way through the RPM range. Its almost as if you were wringing out a manual, you get the full benefit of the engine all the way through. It has amazing response at highway speeds too.

My favorite part was the handling though. Its really tight and feels wonderful going through the twisties. I was taking it down some of the backroads at speeds I would never do with a 500, Freestyle, or Taurus.

The interior is so comfortable and spacious too. Tons of room for a 6 foot plus adult in the rear.

Another great thing about it is that there are S, SE, and SEL models available in both I4 and V6 setups. That and there are so many ways to personalize the car to your liking.

I must say I LOVE the analog style clock in the dash, what a beatiful touch.

To all who have not driven one or are possibly thinking about a new car, do yourself a favor and test drive it, you'll love it.

The only thing I wish it had was a manual trans with the V6, but then again that would be really stepping into a niche market. Plus I wouldn't be surprised if the SVT will have that in store for us

 

Now you know why I love my Mazda6. The handling is exceptional for a FWD car. Ford did a very good thing using the Mazda6 as a platform for these cars.