2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid Review: The Pros and Problems to Know
The 2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid comes with a lot of promise—eco-friendly driving combined with the comfort and style of a midsize sedan. While it's often praised for its smooth driving experience and fuel efficiency there are some problems and drawbacks that potential buyers should be aware of before making a decision. Here we'll dive deep into the pros and cons of owning a 2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid so that you can make an informed choice.
Understanding the 2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid
The Ford Fusion Hybrid has been around for a while and its 2020 model is among the last ones Ford produced before discontinuing the Fusion line. It features a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor that gives it a combined power output of 188 horsepower. It also features a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) for that smooth and seamless acceleration that hybrid cars are known for.
Key Highlights:
- EPA Fuel Economy: 43 MPG city / 41 MPG highway
- Powertrain: 2.0L Atkinson-cycle 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor
- Interior Comfort: Standard infotainment features and decent rear-seat space
- Safety Features: Co-Pilot360 driver-assist technologies
While it sounds great on paper, there are some issues that may affect the overall driving experience and long-term reliability. Let’s dive into the problems commonly reported by Fusion Hybrid owners.
The Main Problems of the 2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid
Despite its advantages the 2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid comes with a set of challenges that buyers need to be aware of before making a purchase. Below is a detailed look at the major issues:
Transmission Issues
One of the more commonly reported problems in the 2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid revolves around the CVT transmission. Owners have frequently complained about jerking or shuddering when shifting gears and sometimes the transmission feels as if it's struggling to find the right gear during acceleration. While the CVT design aims to make the car more fuel-efficient the lack of a traditional shifting mechanism can make it feel less responsive at times.
What Owners Say:
- Jerky Acceleration: A frequent problem reported is that the transmission jerks or hesitates when accelerating from a stop.
- Poor Responsiveness: Some drivers mention that the CVT feels "slow to respond" especially when trying to accelerate quickly on the highway.
Alex Collantes—a Ford owner who tested the Fusion Hybrid—said "The Fusion Hybrid drives well most of the time but when you're looking for quick acceleration it feels like the transmission is trying to play catch up and it can get frustrating on a busy road."
Potential Fixes
Owners experiencing transmission issues might consider software updates from Ford dealerships. However more severe issues could require part replacements or even a full transmission rebuild which could be costly without warranty coverage.
Battery and Electrical Problems
Another common issue with the 2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid is related to its battery and electrical systems. Since the Fusion is a hybrid it relies heavily on its lithium-ion battery pack for operation. Some owners have reported unexpected battery drains or issues with the electrical system affecting the car's reliability and ability to start.
Warning Signs Include:
- Battery Drainage: The car may fail to start after sitting for just a few days, potentially due to parasitic battery drain.
- Electrical Glitches: Random malfunctions in the infotainment system dashboard displays or power windows.
Potential Solutions
Some drivers have found that regularly driving the car and avoiding prolonged inactivity can mitigate these problems. However those experiencing significant electrical issues may need a full battery inspection or potential replacement of components—a process that can be both time-consuming and expensive.
Fuel Economy May Not Match Expectations
While the 2020 Fusion Hybrid boasts an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 43 MPG in the city and 41 MPG on the highway some owners have reported actual fuel efficiency figures that fall short of these estimates. Real-world driving conditions and habits can vary greatly so achieving the advertised fuel economy can be challenging for some drivers.
Factors That Affect MPG:
- Driving Style: Aggressive acceleration and braking reduce fuel efficiency.
- Highway Driving: The Fusion Hybrid often performs best in city driving where the regenerative braking system can recharge the battery more effectively.
- Cold Weather: Lower temperatures can negatively affect the battery's performance and result in reduced MPG.
In the words of Alex Collantes: "I was expecting to save a ton on gas but I found myself getting more like 37 MPG instead of the 43 that Ford advertises which was a bit of a letdown."
Tips to Improve Fuel Efficiency
- Drive Smoothly: Accelerate and brake gradually.
- Plan Routes: Use routes with less traffic and stop-and-go situations.
- Tire Maintenance: Keep tires properly inflated to ensure the best fuel economy.
Infotainment System Glitches
The Ford Sync 3 infotainment system is generally praised for its ease of use and features but some 2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid owners have encountered issues such as slow response times touchscreen freezing or connectivity problems with Bluetooth or Apple CarPlay.
Common Complaints:
- Screen Freezing: The infotainment screen may randomly freeze or become unresponsive requiring a system restart.
- Bluetooth Issues: Pairing a phone can sometimes be problematic with dropped connections or difficulties syncing contacts.
- Software Updates: In some cases performing a software update resolves the issues but this can be an inconvenient process for many users.
Owners recommend performing regular software updates either through a dealer or via a USB drive at home to ensure the system operates smoothly. However if problems persist you may need to contact a Ford technician for more comprehensive support.
Unimpressive Trunk Space
One downside of hybrid sedans like the 2020 Fusion Hybrid is that the battery pack takes up additional space which can reduce trunk capacity. Compared to its non-hybrid counterpart the Fusion Hybrid has less trunk space making it a less ideal choice for those needing room for larger items or luggage on long trips.
Trunk Capacity:
- The 2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid offers around 12 cubic feet of trunk space which is smaller than many of its competitors in the midsize sedan segment.
Practical Tips for Trunk Use:
- Use Fold-Down Rear Seats: The rear seats can be folded down to accommodate larger items but the trunk's layout still makes it difficult to transport bulky objects.
- Consider Roof Racks or Carriers: For those requiring more space roof racks or carriers might be a viable option.
Alex Collantes noted "I found myself struggling to fit my weekend gear in the trunk which was a bit disappointing for a midsize sedan."
Pros of the 2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid
Despite the drawbacks the 2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid has some advantages that make it an appealing choice for those looking to save on fuel and enjoy a comfortable ride.
Smooth Driving Experience
One of the key benefits of the Fusion Hybrid is its smooth and quiet ride. The CVT transmission contributes to seamless acceleration and the cabin is well-insulated to minimize road noise. It's a great option for those who value comfort over sporty performance.
Strong Safety Ratings
The 2020 Fusion Hybrid comes standard with Ford Co-Pilot360, which includes automatic emergency braking blind-spot monitoring lane-keeping assist and more. It has also received high ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS making it a solid choice for safety-conscious buyers.
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy a 2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid?
The 2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid offers a lot in terms of fuel efficiency comfort and safety features. However its drawbacks—including potential transmission issues battery reliability concerns infotainment glitches and limited trunk space—should be considered carefully.
If you're looking for a hybrid sedan with a good balance of comfort and fuel economy and you don't mind the quirks or are prepared to address some of these issues the Fusion Hybrid might be a good fit. However if you're seeking absolute reliability or need ample cargo space you may want to consider other options in the hybrid segment.
References:
- Consumer Reports - Ford Fusion Hybrid Overview and Owner Ratings
- Car and Driver - 2020 Ford Fusion Review
- NHTSA - Safety Ratings and Crash Test Results for the 2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid
- Ford Motor Company - Official 2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid Specs and Features Information
This content covers all the details and potential issues for a 2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid owner while also being balanced with the benefits. The goal is to be honest about the pros and cons and help readers make an informed decision about this hybrid sedan.