2009 Ford Fusion Features Review

In the highly competitive mid-size sedan market, available features can often provide a make-or-break moment in the purchasing process. Fortunately, Ford has some of the best high-tech features in the industry, positioning the 2009 Ford Fusion as a definite contender in this segment. Cars.com notes that "the Fusion S starts at just $18,010—some $2,000 less than the Accord or Malibu," and comes "impressively equipped at that, with power windows and locks, keyless entry, cruise control, A/C and a CD stereo." Moving up to the Ford Fusion SE, Edmunds states that you'll find "foglamps, six-way power driver seats, steering wheel radio controls, upgraded interior trim, a trip computer and a six-speaker stereo with an in-dash six-CD changer." Finally, the top-of-the-line Ford Fusion SEL comes standard with "automatic climate control, upgraded upholstery, multicolor ambient lighting...upgraded interior trim, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and the Sync entertainment and communications interface," according to Edmunds. While those extra features on the SEL might sound tempting, Cars.com is convinced that the "SE is the real steal" since it "costs just $925 more" than the base S.

Speaking of Sync, it's one of those features that reviewers were initially very apprehensive about. In reviews of the 2008 Fusion, some critics were quite vocal when mentioning their frustrations with the system. However, for 2009, most reviewers seem to be sold on what ConsumerGuide calls "Ford's Sync voice-activated interface for controlling cell phones and MP3 players." Edmunds says that, "impressively, your cell phone's address book is...wirelessly and automatically transferred to the vehicle," and in their testing, they've found that "Sync works very well, and judging by positive consumer feedback, it's definitely a major reason to consider the Fusion."

The Sync system is optional on the Ford Fusion SE, but it's far from the only optional feature worth considering on the 2009 Ford Fusion. Cars.com states that "other options include heated leather seats, a moonroof, rear parking sensors, [and] a navigation system." MyRide.com also mentions the availability of a "Moon and Tune Package ($795) with a power moonroof and Audiophile stereo with six-disc CD changer and eight speakers." Car and Driver notes that "a DVD-based navigation system is an $1895 option, which is pricey considering that removable standalone units can be bought much cheaper, but it's not out of line with other factory-offered nav systems." Edmunds points out that "a touchscreen navigation" option is available on the SEL as well.