Ford Fusion (Europe)

Not to be confused with Ford Fusion (Americas).
Ford Fusion
Overview
Manufacturer Ford Europe
Production 2002–2012
Assembly Cologne, Germany
Chennai, India
Body and chassis
Class Mini MPV (M)
Body style 5-door hatchback
Related Ford Fiesta
Ford EcoSport
Mazda2
Powertrain
Engine 1.4L I4
1.6L I4
1.4L I4 TDCi
1.6L I4 TDCi
Transmission 4-speed automatic
5-speed automatic
5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase 2,490 mm (98.0 in)
Length 4,020 mm (158.3 in)
Width 1,710 mm (67.3 in)
Height 1,500 mm (59.1 in)
Chronology
Successor Ford B-MAX

The European Ford Fusion is a vertically stretched version of the Ford Fiesta supermini that was produced by Ford Europe from 2002 to 2012.

The design includes elements of both estates and multi-purpose vehicles. Its extra height compared with the Fiesta is due to increased ground clearance and taller roof, which makes it roomier and more comfortable for taller drivers than regular superminis, drawing it closer to mini MPVs and mini SUVs.

Ford also used the name "Fusion" before the launch of the European Ford Focus, in communications with contractors working on elements of that model's launch publicity. Ford did not reveal whether the late change to "Focus" had been the result of a genuine change in its plans, or simply a desire to conceal the real name from the press until the company was ready for the launch.

In November 2005, a revised version of the Fusion went on sale. A number of cosmetic changes were introduced: both front and rear lights feature new detailing; and bumpers, side mouldings and door mirrors were also altered. Furthermore, a bright new colour palette was introduced. Inside, the dashboard featured both a new design, and high-quality 'soft touch' materials. A new analogue instrument display features in a style similar to the Mk 2 Ford Focus.

Advanced new technology was also made available, including power-folding mirrors, automatic and 'home-safe' headlights, automatic windscreen wipers, Bluetooth with voice control, Trip computer, MP3 player connectivity and the Electronic Stability Program. In the United Kingdom, the car was available in Style+, Zetec and Titanium trim levels. (1, 2, 3 and '+' were the trim levels for the original Fusion).

Equipment on the entry-level 1 included central locking, and dual front airbags. The 2 featured electric heated mirrors, electric front windows, a CD player and air conditioning. The 3 added alloy wheels, front fog lights and an alarm. The + model added larger alloys and privacy glass. This + model was introduced in May 2002.

A no-frills Crossover SUV version of the Fusion called the Ford EcoSport is produced in Brazil and sold in many Latin American countries. In 2002, on Top Gear, it won the Most Pointless Car for being, as Richard Hammond described it, "a Ford Fiesta, in a hat."

Discontinuation

In 2012, Ford replaced the decade-old Fusion with the B-Max.

See also

References

    External links

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