Does the Ford Fusion have leather seats?
The short answer: yes, leather seats were available on higher-trim Ford Fusions, though base models typically came with cloth upholstery. Since Ford ended Fusion production after the 2020 model year, leather seating exists today mainly in used or certified pre-owned examples, with availability depending on the year and trim.
The Ford Fusion, a mid-size sedan that ran from 2005 (for the US market) through 2020, offered leather upholstery as part of upscale packages and on higher-trim variants. The presence of leather varied by model year and market, so buyers shopping for a Fusion today should verify the specific trim and options for the exact vehicle in question. The following sections break down how leather seating appeared across trims and what to look for when shopping.
Leather seating by trim
Below is a quick guide to how leather upholstery typically appeared across Fusion trims, noting that year-to-year changes could apply.
- S (base): Generally cloth upholstery; leather seats were not standard and, in many years, not widely offered as a factory option on the base trim.
- SE: Leather-trim seats were available in some model years as part of optional packages or during mid-cycle refreshes; not universal across all years.
- SEL: Leather-trim seats were commonly available, with leather often included as part of higher-content packages or as an option, and heated front seats frequently paired with leather in many years.
- Titanium: Leather-trim seats were typically standard or highly likely to be included, with heated front seats (and sometimes perforated leather) commonly accompanying the leather package.
In short, if leather seats are your priority, targeting Titanium trim is a strong bet, with SEL offering leather in many but not all years. Always verify the exact features for the specific year and build of any used Fusion you’re considering.
Current status and buying tips
As of 2025, Ford no longer produces the Fusion in North America, with the model ending its run after the 2020 model year. Leather seating, therefore, is something buyers must confirm on used or certified pre-owned vehicles, rather than new models.
- Check the window sticker or listing for explicit “leather seats” or “leather-trim” language, and look for heated front seats as a corollary feature often paired with leather.
- Inspect the seats in person for leather upholstery, noting wear, cracks, or fading, which can indicate age and usage.
- Review the vehicle’s option codes or build sheet to confirm whether leather was included in the original configuration.
- Ask the dealer or seller to confirm the year’s leather configuration, since some years offered leather as an option on SE or SEL, while others did not.
Finding a Fusion with leather is feasible on used-market examples, especially in SEL and Titanium trims. If leather seating is essential, prioritize Titanium models from 2010 onward, and verify the exact features for the year you’re buying.
Summary
Leather seats were a common feature on higher-trim Ford Fusions, particularly SEL and Titanium, with Titanium often offering leather as standard or near-standard equipment across many model years. Base S models typically used cloth, and leather availability varied by year and market. Since the Fusion ended production after the 2020 model year, leather-equipped Fusions are found in the used market, where it’s important to confirm the exact trim and option package for the specific vehicle.
If you’re shopping for a Fusion today, focus on Titanium for the strongest likelihood of leather upholstery, but always verify year-specific configurations and options to ensure the seating meets your expectations. A careful read of the listing, window sticker, or build sheet will help you confirm whether leather seating is included.
What year of Ford Fusion to stay away from?
The Ford Fusion years to avoid are primarily 2010-2012 due to widespread power steering issues. The model years 2013-2016 should also be approached with caution due to potential head gasket problems with the EcoBoost engines and transmission issues, including recalls for certain transmissions.
You can watch this video to learn more about the worst years for Ford Fusion and their issues: 1mAutoMotivateYouTube · Aug 24, 2022
Years to avoid
- 2010–2012: These model years are frequently cited as the worst for the Fusion, with power steering failure being the most common complaint. The 2010 model had the highest number of complaints, followed closely by 2011 and 2012.
- 2013–2016: These years are associated with engine issues in EcoBoost models (1.5L, 1.6L, 2.0L), primarily head gasket failure, which can lead to expensive repairs. Some models from this range also had transmission problems and were subject to recalls.
Specific problems
- Power Steering: A major issue in the 2010-2012 models, often resulting in a complete failure.
- Engine: Head gasket failure in 1.5L, 1.6L, and 2.0L EcoBoost engines from 2013-2016 can cause coolant leaks and overheating.
- Transmission: Some 2013-2016 models experienced shifting problems and leaks, leading to recalls and potential replacement.
- Rust: In snowy climates, earlier models may have a higher susceptibility to rust.
- Hybrid Batteries: The early hybrid versions had less robust batteries compared to some competitors.
Do Ford Fusions have leather seats?
Ford Fusion Trim Levels: Style & Comfort
The Ford Fusion Titanium features leather sport seats, while the Ford Fusion Sport comes with sport seats with Dark Earth Gray Miko® suede and leather seating surfaces.
What Ford models have leather seats?
Which Ford Explorer Has Leather Seats?
- 2022 Ford Explorer XLT (optional)
- 2022 Ford Explorer Timberline.
- 2022 Ford Explorer Limited.
- 2022 Ford Explorer ST.
- 2022 Ford Explorer King Ranch.
- 2022 Ford Explorer Platinum.
Why do cops use Ford Fusions?
Crown Victorias and Explorers, in addition to the Taurus, Fusion, and even F-150 models, were also used as responders. Police like Ford vehicles because of their performance, durability, and reliability.
