2008 Ford Fusion V6 AWD
The 2008 Ford Fusion gets new features and options for 2008. I was surprised by the SEL V6 all-wheel drive ($26,575) I tested as it was sporty and handled well in a recent snowstorm. The model I tested came with the optional Sport Appearance Package with a sport-tuned suspension, decklid lip spoiler, P225/45R18 tires on aluminum wheels, dual chrome exhaust tips, a brushed aluminum radio surround, red seat inserts, and red stitching on the seats, steering wheel and center console. Antilock brakes and a tire-pressure monitor are now standard. The Sport Appearance Package offers more than just looks, as the suspension is sport-tuned with different shocks and spring rates and 18-inch aluminum wheels on P225/45R18 performance tires. While the ride was a little stiff on washboard dirt roads around my home, it never felt harsh. For both looks and handling in the mountains, the reasonably priced Sport Performance Package ($895) is a worthwhile option. The SEL option added automatic headlights, automatic temperature control, upgraded wood or piano black interior trim, leather wrapped steering wheel, analog clock, heated outside mirrors, keyless entry keypad, and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror.
The leather, heated front seats were especially nice on a cold morning drive to work The ambient lighting which illuminates the front cupholders and front and rear footwells is a nice touch that comes in handy when driving after dark or before the sun comes up and you can't see where to put your coffee. SEL models have a front passenger seatback that folds down, making it possible to haul extra-long items. The Fusion AWD handles well, something I put to the test on curvy mountain roads above Floyd Hill. The rack-and-pinion steering is precise with just the right amount of weight to make the driver feel connected to the road. The Fusion feels bigger and heavier than it looks, but it also offers excellent stability. The V6 comes with a six-speed automatic, a feature associated with top-end luxury cars. The all-wheel-drive Fusion offers excellent handling stability and grip in adverse conditions. The AWD did well after a recent spring snowstorm traveling on I-70 to Denver. The AWD version is a must in an area that gets adverse weather like the foothills of Evergreen, the AWD model is a smart choice. The Fusion V6 gets a respectable 25 mpg on the highway and 17 mpg in the city according to EPA estimates with all-wheel drive, but either way the fuel mileage is descent for a V6.
The Ford Fusion delivers comfort and sporty handling that is even more athletic for 2008 with the addition of a Sport Appearance package. The available all-wheel-drive model provides exceptional handling stability on slippery surfaces. While the horsepower isn't up to others in the same class, the benefit is in better gas mileage. Overall, the AWD Fusion is a capable mountain vehicle and an excellent value.
Denis and his wife Jeanie live in Evergreen and own the Mountain Man Nut & Fruit store in Bergen Park.