2010 Fusion plays up mpg

LOS ANGELES — The 2010 Ford Fusion is a key to Ford Motor Co.'s bid to become an industry leader in fuel efficiency.

Ford made many changes when it restyled its flagship mid-sized sedan. But the styling and ride and handling improvements pale next to the emphasis on stretching dollars at the fuel pump.

It's a two-pronged approach: A new hybrid version of the Fusion boasts a fuel economy rating of 41 mpg city/36 highway. The conventional four-cylinder Fusion with a six-speed automatic transmission is rated at 23 city/34 highway. The current Fusion with a four-cylinder engine gets 20 mpg city/29 highway.

"This is an opportunity for us to take share from imports," Frank Davis, Ford executive director of North American car and truck programs, said at a press event here. "We think we can rally around fuel economy."

Ford says the new Fusion, which goes on sale in March, will be America's most fuel-efficient mid-sized sedan for hybrid and conventional versions.

The basics: Besides the hybrid, Ford is adding a performance model. The Fusion Sport is powered by a 263-hp, 3.5-liter V-6. Ford reduced wind and road noise and improved ride and handling, reducing body roll.

Notable features: The four-cylinder and 3.0-liter V-6 versions have electronic power-assisted steering, which improves steering, helps fuel economy and shrinks the turning radius. The hybrid features a digital instrument panel display that coaches drivers to maximize fuel efficiency. One portion of the display shows a digital tree that grows vines and leaves as fuel economy improves.

Design: Ford restyled the Fusion's front end in search of a sportier look and improved aerodynamics. Exterior sheet metal, except for the roof and doors, was changed. A new interior strives for a high-tech look.

Compromises and shortcomings: For all the styling changes, the exterior design is similar to the outgoing model. If you didn't like that model, the 2010 Fusion won't grab your attention, either. A more striking design departure would have helped draw attention to the car's many improvements.

The market: Ford executives are looking for the revamped Fusion to win market share from the segment-leading Toyota Camry. Fusion pricing starts at $19,995. The Fusion Hybrid starts at $27,995. Both prices include shipping.

The skinny: Ford packed a lot of improvements and technology into the 2010 Fusion. The new hybrid is an impressive performer. Ford has a genuine fuel economy story to tell with this makeover.