Pros and Cons of the Ford Mondeo (US Model: Ford Fusion)

The Ford Mondeo, known as the Ford Fusion in the United States, has been a staple in the mid-size sedan market since its first redesign in 2013. Over the years, it has received several updates, including major changes, minor refreshes, and various engine options. This article delves into the pros and cons of the Ford Fusion, providing insights to help potential buyers make an informed decision.

The Best Year to Consider: 2013

When considering a used Ford Fusion, 2013 is a particularly good year to look for. This year marks the first major redesign of the car, which often comes with improved reliability and new features. However, like any used car, it's crucial to have the car inspected by a third-party mechanic to ensure there are no hidden issues. For instance, if you're considering a 2013 model that had transmission issues, it's important to confirm that these issues were resolved under warranty. Since then, the car should be in good condition, barring any minor maintenance issues.

Common Maintenance Tips

Maintaining a Ford Fusion involves some basic checks. One key point is to ensure the radio turns off when the car is turned off and the doors are closed. Additionally, it's a good idea to spray an anti-rodent spray on the bottom of the car, away from hot objects, once in a while. For newer cars from various brands, including the Ford Mondeo, soy-based wiring is used, which reduces the risk of damage from rodents. This is especially true given the presence of delicate electronics in modern vehicles.

Pros of the Ford Fusion

One of the main attractions of the Ford Fusion is its sheer size, which provides ample space for the family. The car is spacious inside and has a substantial boot/trunk space, making it a perfect fit for carrying children, pets, or groceries. Comfort is another advantage, with a comfortable ride for both front and rear passengers. Performance-wise, the Fusion offers decent acceleration and handling, suitable for both city and highway driving.

When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Ford Fusion is a standout, especially the diesel models. In fact, while other brands offer a range of engine types, the Ford Fusion limits its diesel engines to provide the best fuel economy. For those who prioritize cost-effectiveness and fuel efficiency, the diesel variant is highly recommended. Even the hybrid version of the Fusion is efficient, though it does reduce trunk space significantly.

The brand new Fusion is also a good buy considering its affordability and reliability. In fact, the 2010 version of the Mondeo (US model: 2012 Ford Fusion) is known to be a nearly perfect family car, a testament to the reliability and durability of the model.

Cons of the Ford Fusion

The cons of the Ford Fusion are largely subjective and can vary based on individual preferences. One notable drawback is the hybrid version, which not only reduces trunk space by a significant amount but also comes with a higher price tag. Additionally, the manual transmission of the non-hybrid models is shared with the smaller-engined Focus. This means that certain issues common to smaller-engine Focus models, such as transmission problems, might also affect the Ford Fusion, though it’s worth noting that the 2.0-liter and other larger engines haven't reported similar issues in the UK.

Another point of contention can be the lack of manual option. While the automatic transmission is convenient, some drivers might prefer the feel of a manual shift. Furthermore, the electronic parking brake, though a standard feature in many modern cars, is not everyone's cup of tea and can be seen as a drawback by those who prefer traditional parking brakes.

Depreciation and Future Prospects

Given that the Ford Fusion will soon be phased out, depreciation might be a concern for those planning to sell the car. However, this doesn't necessarily mean that the car will be a loss for the current owner. Despite not being the most popular car in the market, the Ford Fusion remains a reliable and efficient vehicle, offering good value for money.

Overall, the Ford Fusion is a well-rounded car with its share of pros and cons. Whether it’s the spacious interior, fuel efficiency, or reliability, the Ford Fusion caters to a wide range of needs. While there are some cons to consider, they are often outweighed by the many advantages the car offers.