Ford Fusion Hatchback 2002 - Present

Based on the ever popular Fiesta, the Ford Fusion is essentially a taller version of the popular supermini. It offers a taller adaptation of the UK stalwart with extra interior space and more storage room. It's target market is somewhat older than the Fiesta and as a reflection of this the engine options are more reserved.

The Fusion manages to transfer the good on-road manners of the Fiesta into the larger body with little difficulty. There is a slight hint of body roll and the car feels a little more top heavy, especially in the wind. But all in all the Fusion manages what it sets out to pretty well. It offers a comfortable ride and delivers little in the way of surprises for any of the occupants. The extra head and leg room means that passengers end their journey feeling comfortable. The Fusion has a turning circle of 9.3 m which really helps with manoeuvrability and parking.

The Fusion comes with three different engine options and none of them make you think ‘Nuclear power'. There are two petrol units 1.4 and 1.6 and a 1.4 diesel option. None are quick by any measure, nothing breaking the 10 seconds 0-60 and the diesel engine not breaking 100 mph. That said their remit isn't to do so. They feel out of their depth pretty quickly on the motorway, not having the power to get past anything very quickly and with their tall bodies they are susceptible to any head and side wind, with surprise gusts making staying in lane quite a challenge.

The boot space in the Fusion is both ample and useful. It has an impressive 1000 litres of usable boot space in the back and the flat folding front seat will facilitate moving bigger objects. The passenger seat also doubles up as a useful work surface - with its table-like hardback design - and also has a stowage tray under the seat that is accessed by lifting up the hinged seating cushion. The sunglasses holder above the drivers head is a nice touch, although given the age of the driver that this car is aimed at, a walking stick holder near the seat would be more appropriate.

The Ford Fusion fuses a small car with the ability to carry quite a big load. It's not got enough under the bonnet to make it much of a hit with the traditional Fiesta drivers but will be an excellent run around for older drivers. There are no surprises with the power or handling and there's room for lots of stuff in the boot. Fortunately the unusual shape will probably put off the boy racers who want to burn around town and mean that the Fusion is brought by the people it's designed for.

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