2020 Ford Fusion Plug-In Hybrid Review

Name: 2020 Ford Fusion Plug-In Hybrid Review
Brand: Ford
Price: 19998 USD

2020 Ford Fusion Plug-In Hybrid Titanium Sedan Exterior

2020 Ford Fusion Plug-In Hybrid Titanium Sedan in Agate Black Metallic

+18

With impressive fuel economy and a reasonably hushed ride, the Fusion Plug-In Hybrid nonetheless gives up natural driving dynamics to achieve an all-electric range that's outshined by dedicated plug-ins. It is a bit compromised, but it could still be the right car depending on your priorities.

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2020 Ford Fusion Plug-In Hybrid Review

byCameron Rogers^{Manager, News
Cameron Rogers has worked in the automotive industry since 2013. He has tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Today, he leads the news team in developing cutting-edge news articles, opinion pieces and sneak peeks at upcoming vehicles. Favorite cars that he's driven during his tenure at Edmunds include the 991-era Porsche 911 Turbo S, Rolls-Royce Ghost and several generations of Honda Odyssey (really).}

Pros

Well-equipped with features
Quiet at highway speeds
High-quality interior materials
Cabin offers plenty of room for adults

Cons

Grabby brakes make it difficult to stop smoothly
Battery pack takes up a significant amount of trunk space
Ride is buoyant even over moderate bumps

What's new

Ford has renamed the Fusion Energi to be the Fusion Plug-In Hybrid
Passenger seat no longer has adjustable lumbar or memory settings
Part of the third Fusion generation introduced for 2013

Overview

The 2020 Ford Fusion Plug-In Hybrid is a classic example of a car that doesn't quite add up to the sum of its parts. Despite its advanced age, the standard Fusion is one of our favorite midsize sedans. A lot of its strengths — a roomy cabin, solid materials quality and intuitive infotainment system — carry over to the Fusion Hybrid and Fusion Plug-In Hybrid as well. But a few drawbacks unique to the Plug-In Hybrid make it difficult to recommend over other Fusion variants as well as the Plug-In Hybrid's direct competitors.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2020 Ford Fusion Plug-In Hybrid Titanium 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid CVT) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.44 per gallon for regular unleaded and $0.14 per kWh for electricity in Virginia.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$75/mo

$177/mo

Avg. Midsize Car

Calculate my fuel costs

The battery pack in the gas-only Fusion Hybrid takes up some of the trunk space, but the cargo area is still fairly usable. The Plug-In Hybrid's larger pack consumes even more real estate, to the point that its trunk is smaller than a Mustang convertible's. The suspension doesn't feel like it was retuned to deal with the pack's extra weight either, resulting in a body that shakes and bobs over bumps. And while the regenerative braking in the Hybrid feels well-sorted, the Plug-In Hybrid is either grabby or not forceful enough — it varies from braking event to braking event.

While the Fusion itself is a great midsize sedan, the Plug-In Hybrid model needs a rethink. The Fusion Hybrid is less expensive and feels natural to drive around town. If you must have a plug-in midsize sedan, the Honda Clarity is a better choice, offering more EV range and costing less.

Edmunds Expert Rating

Our Verdict^{The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.}

Below Average

6.9

out of 10

edmunds TESTED

Rated for you by America's best test team.

Performance

7.0/10

How does the Fusion Plug-In Hybrid drive? The Fusion Plug-In Hybrid's acceleration is quick and smooth enough, but the rest of the Plug-In Hybrid's abilities are unimpressive. The terrible brakes deserve a special mention. The modulation is subpar, making it difficult to be smooth. The feel is synthetic, and the brakes act grabby (or not) depending on how much pressure you're applying and when. Panic-stopping distances are mediocre.

Comfort

7.0/10

How comfortable is the Fusion Plug-In Hybrid? The Fusion Plug-In Hybrid's cabin is quiet and comfortable, with wide, plush seats, soft leather upholstery, and padding that has the right amount of give. But there's one aspect of the Fusion Plug-In Hybrid's comfort that brings down the rest of the score. The body tends to move a lot when it rides over even moderate bumps, as if the car is struggling to cope with its own weight. It feels lightly underdamped, with the body pogoing around in bumpy corners, making for a nauseating ride over certain surfaces.

Interior

7.5/10

How’s the interior? Most people will find the Fusion Plug-In Hybrid's interior a perfectly fine place to be on a daily basis. The wide cabin provides plenty of wiggle room, and there's plenty of headroom up front as long as you don't get the sunroof. The back seat is positioned slightly higher, and combined with the swept roofline, provides limited headroom for tall rear passengers.

Most of the controls are logically placed and are within eyeshot of the driver. The steering wheel and driver's seat have plenty of adjustment range, and that ensures most people will find an agreeable driving position.

Technology

7.5/10

How’s the tech? While the Sync 3 interface is pretty, it's not the quickest one to snap into action upon startup. Once it kicks into gear, you'll find it's one of the more intuitive systems available. Bluetooth pairing is fast and simple, and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality makes connecting your phone a cinch. The voice controls are good, and the Fusion has in-car Wi-Fi as well. It's easy to find the adjustments for the many standard safety features.

Storage

6.0/10

How’s the storage? Trunk space has taken a huge hit on account of the big hybrid battery. While the more conventional Fusion Hybrid's cargo area measures a respectable 12 cubic feet, the Plug-In Hybrid only affords 8.2 cubes. To put that into perspective, the Mustang convertible offers 11.4 cubic feet. And while the spec sheet lists a 60/40-split folding back seat, don't be fooled — the resulting pass-through size is like a mail slot.

In-cabin storage is another story, with an array of pockets, a deep console bin and a two-tiered glovebox.

Fuel Economy

8.0/10

How’s the fuel economy? The EPA estimates the Fusion Plug-In Hybrid will sip gas to the tune of 42 mpg in combined driving. That's in line with other like-minded plug-ins. EV range of 26 miles is decent, but there are a handful of other plug-ins that offer more.

Value

7.5/10

Is the Fusion Plug-In Hybrid a good value? It's a little more expensive than a similarly priced Fusion Hybrid, but the Plug-In Hybrid still represents a good value. It costs roughly the same as other plug-in midsize sedans but offers a few more features. Warranty coverage is standard for the segment, though hybrids from Kia and Hyundai offer much broader coverage.

Wildcard

6.0/10

The Fusion Plug-In Hybrid is not your run-of-the-mill sedan. But if you're not plugging it in regularly, its dynamic trade-offs and small trunk may not be worth it compared to a regular Fusion Hybrid. The Plug-In Hybrid isn't much fun to drive either since any inherent sprightliness has been blunted by the extra weight and killjoy tires. If fun is what you want, look elsewhere.

Which Fusion Plug-In Hybrid does Edmunds recommend?

The Fusion Plug-In Hybrid comes in just one trim — Titanium — so the only real decisions you'll have to make are which color you like and if you want to add the optional sunroof. While there aren't many choices, the Titanium comes loaded with lots of luxury and safety features.

2020 Ford Fusion Plug-In Hybrid models

The 2020 Ford Fusion Plug-In Hybrid is one of the only midsize plug-in hybrid sedans on the market. Ford offers just one trim: Titanium. Don't worry, though. The Plug-In Hybrid Titanium is loaded with all of the latest technology, safety and luxury features.

It's powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired to an electric motor and a 9-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Total system output is 188 horsepower. This front-wheel-drive sedan can travel up to 26 miles on electric power alone, and charging an empty battery using a Level 2 charger should take about 2.6 hours.

Standard features on the Fusion Plug-In Hybrid Titanium include 17-inch alloy wheels, LED exterior lighting (headlights, taillights and foglights), remote engine start, keyless entry and ignition, heated mirrors, auto-dimming rearview and driver-side mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear air vents, adaptive cruise control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with heating, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat (with two-way lumbar), a six-way power passenger seat, heated and ventilated front seats, a 60/40-split fold-down rear seat, driver-seat memory functions and leather upholstery.

For entertainment, there's an 8-inch touchscreen, a navigation system, and a 12-speaker Sony audio system with a CD player, HD and satellite radio, two USB ports, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Standard safety features include a rearview camera, rear parking sensors and Ford's Co-Pilot360 package, which brings automatic high-beam control, lane departure warning and mitigation, a blind-spot monitor, and a pre-collision warning system with automatic braking and pedestrian detection.

A sunroof is the only stand-alone option.

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 2020 Ford Fusion Plug-In Hybrid.

5 (42%)

4 (44%)

3 (14%)

2 (0%)

1 (0%)

4.3

7 reviews

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Most helpful consumer reviews

Depends on Your Criteria

Randy Grenier, 08/30/2019

2020 Ford Fusion Plug-In Hybrid Titanium 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid CVT)

I have read several conflicting reviews of this car. I have a 2019 Ford Fusion Energi Titanium, and it is a really good match for my criteria. 1. It is extremely fuel efficient. Gets 26 miles of pure EV and 42 mpg in hybrid mode. 2. It is a smooth, comfortable ride. My last car was a Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, and I can hardly tell the difference in ride quality. In fact, I think the … Fusion is slightly smoother. Really. The ICE--electric motor functionality has been considerably tuned and greatly improved from the 2017 version. 3. Very good technology. In addition to all the safety stuff (collision detection/avoidance, blind spot monitoring, rear sensing, cross-traffic alert, lane keep assist, and more), it has the excellent SYNC 3 navigation and infotainment, a very good Sony sound system, auto high beams, active noise control (like those headphones they wear on airplanes except it cancels ambient noise for the whole interior), rain-sensing wipers, LED headlights and taillights, and and more. 4. A really good smartphone app that not only allows you to start the car and lock/unlock doors, but also allows you to see how much charge is available in the high voltage battery, how much mileage is available, and if the car is charging it displays the charge status. You can also set charge times from the app, and if you have an Android Wear watch, it allows many of these functions to work from your watch. (Not sure if there is an Apple Watch version.) Oh, yes, and the app displays a history of your trips and charges, and it has one of the better locator for charging stations. 5. I compared features with the Honda Clarity and the Chevy Volt, and the Fusion wins in the features area. Consider when pricing that all features come standard with the Titanium model except the moon roof which is about $1k more. 6. I price compared with the Honda Clarity, Chevy Volt, and a few other PHEVs, and I got the best leasing price by far. Your results may vary depending on location. Try pricing all online. I recommend researching actual pricing and configurations on the Internet rather rather than just read the reviews. Your criteria may be very different than the reviewer. For example, the Fusion Energi is heavily criticized for small trunk space, but that wasn't important to me since I can just fold down the rear seats on the rare occasions that we need more storage space. So, the reviews are very helpful, but also get pricing and configuration details online for each of the PHEVs you are considering.

Ford Fusion Plug in Hybrid Titanium 2020 sipper

Owner of Ford Fusion Plug 2020, 10/17/2020

2020 Ford Fusion Plug-In Hybrid Titanium 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid CVT)

Purchased new with an excellent deal. Lots of discounts from dealer. Ended up zero interest and 7k under list. The more I drive it the better I like it. Turns on a dime. Become one with the Ford plug-in and you save on cash the eco system and feel smart doing it.. The in lane system and adaptive cruse control is wonderful. Same as my Lincoln. Average over 60 MPG without trying to hard …

Terrific 21st Century auto

Dozer, 10/03/2021

2020 Ford Fusion Plug-In Hybrid Titanium 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid CVT)

New owner of a 2020 Ford Fusion Titanium PHEV. Terrific looking car (Dark Blue), looks fast standing still. Great driver, almost perfect compromise of handling and ride. Comfortable interior, great leather seats, super stereo, excellent HVAC (AC for your buns!). Super quiet, we are averaging 30 miles on electric, and have used only 7 gallons of dead dinosaurs in 700 miles of driving. …

Disappointed in the battery

Victor, 12/12/2019

2020 Ford Fusion Plug-In Hybrid Titanium 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid CVT)

I've had my 2020 Ford Fusion Plug in Energi now for about 2 weeks. I really like the car and enjoy it. I try and drive it on battery where ever I can, unfortunately I keep falling short on the distance. The MOST I've been able to get is about 20 to 22 miles. Granted, it's December and a little cold, but it's well short of 26 miles. The 109 mpg is great, but I really want to be …

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2020 Fusion Plug-In Hybrid Highlights

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$37,000
EV Tax Credits & Rebates	$4,125 Based on income
Engine Type	Plug-in hybrid
EPA Electric Range	26 miles
Combined MPGe (Electric + Gas)	103 MPGe^{MPGe is the official metric that the EPA uses to measure the efficiency of alternative-fuel (including electric) vehicles. Just like regular MPG shows how far a car will travel on one gallon of gas, MPGe shows how far a vehicle will drive on 33.7kWh of electricity - the energy equivalent of one gallon of gasoline. Combined MPGe is the combined total of 45% city MPGe + 55% highway MPGe.}
Cost to Drive	$75/month
Total Charging Time (240V)	2.6 hours
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	8.2 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the Fusion Plug-In Hybrid models:

Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance between the Fusion Plug-In Hybrid and the car in front and automatically adjusts your speed.
BLIS with Cross-Traffic Alert: Alerts the driver when there is a vehicle in the car's blind spot. Also detects if cross-traffic is approaching the Fusion while backing up.
Reverse Sensing System: Sounds an alert as the Fusion Hybrid approaches an object located behind the car.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
OverallNot Rated
DriverNot Rated
PassengerNot Rated
Side Crash Rating
OverallNot Rated
Side Barrier Rating
OverallNot Rated
DriverNot Rated
PassengerNot Rated
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front SeatNot Rated
Back SeatNot Rated
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover10.9%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good

2020 Ford Fusion Plug-In Hybrid Review

2020 Ford Fusion Plug-In Hybrid Review

Pros

Cons

What's new

Overview

Edmunds Expert Rating

Performance

Comfort

Interior

Technology

Storage

Fuel Economy

Value

Wildcard

Which Fusion Plug-In Hybrid does Edmunds recommend?

2020 Ford Fusion Plug-In Hybrid models

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 2020 Ford Fusion Plug-In Hybrid.

Trending topics in reviews

Most helpful consumer reviews

Depends on Your Criteria

Ford Fusion Plug in Hybrid Titanium 2020 sipper

Terrific 21st Century auto

Disappointed in the battery

2020 Fusion Plug-In Hybrid Highlights

Safety

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