Used 2016 Ford Fusion Energi SE Luxury

2016 Ford Fusion Energi: A Detailed Overview

The 2016 Ford Fusion Energi was a plug-in hybrid sedan that aimed to blend fuel efficiency with a comfortable and technologically advanced driving experience. Building on the success of the standard Fusion, the Energi model offered the added benefit of electric-only driving for shorter commutes, making it an attractive option for environmentally conscious buyers seeking practicality and style.

Highlights

• Powertrain: The heart of the Fusion Energi is its plug-in hybrid system. It pairs a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack. This combination delivers a total system output of 188 horsepower. The key feature here is its plug-in capability, allowing for a significant electric-only driving range (around 20-23 miles, depending on driving conditions) before the gasoline engine kicks in. This electric range is ideal for daily commutes, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and saving money on gasoline.
• Safety Features: The 2016 Fusion Energi came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect occupants and assist the driver. Standard features often included:
  • Antilock Braking System (ABS): Prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control.
  • Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Helps prevent skidding and loss of traction by automatically applying brakes to individual wheels and reducing engine power when it detects a loss of steering control.
  • Airbags: A full array of airbags, including front, side-impact, and curtain airbags, designed to cushion occupants in the event of a collision.
  • Rearview Camera: Provides a view of what's behind the vehicle when in reverse, aiding in parking and preventing accidents.
  • Available Advanced Safety Features: Depending on the trim and options, buyers could also find features like:
    • Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert: Alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots and detects approaching traffic when backing out of a parking space.
    • Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Assist: Helps the driver stay within their lane by providing audible or haptic warnings and applying gentle steering corrections.
    • Forward Collision Warning with Brake Support: Uses sensors to detect potential frontal collisions and warns the driver, potentially applying the brakes automatically if a collision is imminent.
• Trim Summary: The 2016 Ford Fusion Energi was generally offered in a single, well-equipped trim level, often referred to as the Fusion Energi Titanium. This meant that most of the desirable features were standard, contributing to a premium feel. Key standard amenities typically included:
  • Leather upholstery
  • Heated front seats
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control
  • SYNC infotainment system with a touchscreen interface (often 8-inch)
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Keyless entry and push-button start
  • Power-adjustable front seats
• Notable Aspects:
  • Stylish Design: The Fusion lineup was known for its sleek and upscale exterior styling, and the Energi model was no exception.
  • Comfortable Ride: The Fusion Energi offered a refined and comfortable ride, making it suitable for long journeys as well as daily commuting.
  • Modern Interior: The interior was well-appointed with quality materials and a user-friendly layout, featuring Ford's SYNC infotainment system.
  • Regenerative Braking: The hybrid system utilized regenerative braking, which captures energy typically lost during deceleration and converts it into electrical energy to recharge the battery, further enhancing efficiency.

What to Expect

When owning a 2016 Ford Fusion Energi, expect a driving experience characterized by its smooth transition between electric and gasoline power. For shorter trips, you'll primarily rely on the electric motor, enjoying a quiet and emissions-free ride. Once the battery depletes or under heavier acceleration, the gasoline engine seamlessly engages.

Maintenance: Routine maintenance for the Fusion Energi will be similar to a standard gasoline-powered Fusion, with the addition of hybrid-specific components. This includes:

• Oil Changes: The 2.0-liter engine will require regular oil changes according to Ford's recommended schedule.
• Tire Rotations: Essential for even tire wear and optimal fuel efficiency.
• Brake System: While the regenerative braking system reduces wear on traditional friction brakes, they will still require inspection and eventual replacement.
• Hybrid Battery: The lithium-ion battery pack is designed to last many years and miles, often with a manufacturer warranty extending for a significant period (e.g., 8 years/100,000 miles, whichever comes first). However, like any battery, its capacity can degrade over time, though this is typically a gradual process.
• Charging System: Regular checks of the charging port and cable are advisable to ensure proper functionality.

Insurance: Insurance premiums for plug-in hybrids like the Fusion Energi can sometimes be slightly higher than comparable gasoline-only vehicles due to the advanced technology and potentially higher repair costs of hybrid components. However, this can vary significantly based on your driving record, location, coverage choices, and the specific insurance provider. It's always recommended to get quotes from multiple insurers.

Potential Considerations

While the 2016 Ford Fusion Energi offered many advantages, buyers should be aware of a few potential considerations:

• Trunk Space: The packaging of the larger battery pack for the plug-in hybrid system significantly reduces trunk space compared to the standard Fusion. This can be a limitation for those who frequently carry large items or have significant cargo needs.
• Charging Time: While the electric-only range is beneficial, recharging the battery fully can take several hours using a standard 120V outlet. A 240V home charging station (Level 2) is highly recommended to significantly reduce charging times, but this represents an additional cost.
• Performance in Cold Weather: Like many hybrid and electric vehicles, the Fusion Energi's electric-only range and overall efficiency can be somewhat diminished in very cold weather as the battery performance can be affected by low temperatures.
• Infotainment System Updates: While SYNC was a capable system for its time, some users might find it less intuitive or responsive compared to the latest infotainment systems available in newer vehicles. Software updates might be available, but their availability and ease of installation can vary.

Overall Summary

The 2016 Ford Fusion Energi was a compelling option for those seeking a stylish and efficient mid-size sedan with the added benefit of plug-in hybrid technology. It offered a comfortable ride, a well-appointed interior, and a good array of safety features, making it a practical choice for daily commutes and longer journeys. While the reduced trunk space and charging time are factors to consider, its ability to significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions made it a smart and forward-thinking vehicle for its era.