>>Ford Fusion (Europe)

Ford Fusion (Europe)

Ford Fusion

Manufacturer	Ford Motor Company
Production	2002–2012
Assembly	Cologne, Germany Chennai, India
Successor	Ford B-MAX
Class	Mini MPV
Body style	5-door hatchback
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
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)
Related	Ford EcoSport

Side view of the Ford Fusion

The European Ford Fusion was a vertically stretched version of the Ford Fiesta supermini produced by Ford of 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 both roof racks, 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 a cassette player, 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.

Ford is bringing out a new mini MPV called the B-Max in 2012, to replace the decade-old Fusion. It will have no pillars between the doors, giving a panoramic view from inside the car. It is believed that this glass will be shatter resistant and extra tough in case of an accident.

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 media

In the 2002 Top Gear Awards, it won the Most Pointless Car award for being, as Richard Hammond described it, "a Ford Fiesta, in a hat."

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