Ford has its Volt.
The all-new 2013 Fusion sedan introduced today at the North American International Auto Show will be available in several versions, including a plug-in hybrid that Ford says will achieve an electric-only mode fuel economy rating equivalent to 100 mpg, bettering the smaller Chevrolet Volt’s rating of 93 mpge.
The more conventional models of the Fusion will also offer class-leading fuel economy, according to Ford, including a179 hp 1.6-liter EcoBoost tubocharged four-cylinder that can achieve 37 mpg on the highway and a hybrid that uses a compact lithium-ion battery pack and is expected to deliver 47 mpg city and 44 mpg highway, a big jump from the 41/36 mpg rating of the current model. Base models will come with a 170 hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder while a 237 hp 2.0-liter EcoBoost tops the range. There is no V6 option.
The Fusion’s new design combines a strong split-grille front fascia and sweeping lines to give it an upscale look. The interior is larger than today’s Fusion and borrows themes from the current Ford Focus and Edge CUV, taking them to the next level.
All-wheel-drive is available with the 2.0-liter engine, and a host of high-tech features not often seen in the class will be offered across the lineup. These include a lane-keeping assist system, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot alert and the ability to steer itself into a parking space.
Prices have not been revealed, nor have details on the plug-in hybrid such as battery size, electric range, or combined fuel economy. The 2013 Fusion goes on sale this fall.