Ford Fusion SE Oakland CA

BY JARED GALL

In our February issue, we ran a comparison test of mid-size sedans from which the Fusion was absent. All those cars were new-for-2007 models from our 10Best hoopla, where the Accord beat them all to take the trophy (again). We put together the comparo to see where the also-rans would filter in below the Honda, and if the Accord would remain on top when all the cars were sampled with four-cylinder engines and automatics (the most-sold combination). Since a V-6 Fusion had already lost to the Accord in a previous comparo, it stayed home for this one as well. But the comparo was a timely reason to get our hands on a four-cylinder Fusion, so we took it.

You can't talk Fusions without talking style: This is the best looking Ford sedan in years. A rakish, high beltline with simple, clean sides and subtle fender flares is topped by an angular greenhouse. Edges in the sheetmetal are creased, but softer than a Cadillac. The outer corners of the headlights creep up into the hood, as though being pulled back by the wind rushing over them, and the oversized taillamps get clear lenses that wrap around into the car's flanks. The look is clean and understated, with bright detail work to bring out the luxury look, like the sparse jewelry of a tuxedo. We like it.

Inside, the SE we tested was more Lee Dungarees and Jerzees t-shirt. Nothing wrong with that in a $20,525 car. For $395, our Fusion was upgraded with the Appearance Package, which includes 17-inch wheels and spices up the plain black cloth seats with inserts dappled with sporty-looking red stitching. It looks sporty and feels comfortable. The dash, center stack, and steering wheel audio and cruise controls are intuitively laid out, but unremarkable in their appearance.

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