Ford Fusion 2-US

The second-generation Fusion is the US version of the European Mondeo V, and it ranks among the better-looking and better-driving mid-size sedans of its era: clean styling, a composed chassis, and balanced handling. It came with naturally aspirated, EcoBoost, and hybrid powertrains. The biggest warning before buying: early cars with the PowerShift dual-clutch transmission (6DCT450) suffer the notorious dry-clutch wear — shudder, clunking, and hesitation from a stop are an expensive red flag. Anyone buying a DCT car should scrutinise transmission behaviour in stop-and-go traffic; the conventional automatic in the V6 and hybrid variants is the more durable choice. Other common weaknesses: MyFord Touch freezes, the power steering can lose assist entirely, and the rear wheel arches are rust-prone — a key inspection point on any used example. The 1.5 EcoBoost is known for hairline cracks in the block that cause coolant loss. The recall list is long: the steering wheel can detach (18S08), the shift cable bushing can fail and allow roll-away (22V413), front brake hoses (23S12), and a door latch recall. The throttle body can force limp mode (16B32), the panoramic sunroof can shatter, a parasitic battery drain through the audio module (ACM) flattens the battery overnight, and the electric parking brake actuator plus early brake rotor wear add further costs. Buying tips: identify the transmission first and avoid the DCT or demand its service history, check the wheel arches for rust, confirm all recalls are closed, and on the 1.5 EcoBoost watch coolant level and oil condition. A well-chosen Fusion — ideally a hybrid or conventional automatic — is a comfortable, handsome, economical cruiser.