Is the Ford Fusion FWD or RWD?
The Ford Fusion is built primarily as a front-wheel-drive sedan. All-wheel drive is not standard but has been available on select gasoline models in some years, while the hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions are front-wheel drive by design. There is no rear-wheel-drive configuration offered for the Fusion in the U.S. market.
Drivetrain at a glance
Understanding whether a Fusion has FWD or AWD can affect traction, handling, and fuel economy. The base setup is front-wheel drive, with AWD available on certain gasoline-only variants in some years. Hybrid and Energi plug-in versions remain front-wheel-drive-only.
AWD availability by generation
The following summarizes how all-wheel drive was offered across Fusion generations and trims. Note that AWD was not universal and depended on year and engine choice.
- First generation (2006–2012): All-wheel drive was offered as an option on select trims, typically paired with certain engines; most configurations used front-wheel drive as standard.
- Second generation (2013–2020): Ford offered Intelligent AWD on select gasoline trims, often with EcoBoost engines; hybrid and Energi plug-in variants remained front-wheel drive.
Conclusion: If AWD is a requirement, check the exact year, trim, and drivetrain specification for the specific Fusion you’re considering, since AWD was not a universal feature.
Variants: FWD or AWD by type
Different Fusion variants follow different drivetrain rules. The breakdown below helps buyers and owners understand what to expect for each model type.
- Ford Fusion Hybrid: Front-wheel drive only across model years; no factory AWD option.
- Ford Fusion Energi (plug-in hybrid): Front-wheel drive only; electric drive is delivered through the front wheels, with no AWD option.
- Ford Fusion gasoline models (non-hybrid): All-wheel drive was offered as an option on select trims in certain years; most configurations are front-wheel drive.
Conclusion: If you need AWD, focus on gasoline Fusion variants and verify the AWD option for the exact year and trim. Hybrids and Energi are not AWD.
Summary
Bottom line: The Ford Fusion is not a rear-wheel-drive vehicle. It is built as front-wheel drive by default, with all-wheel drive available only on certain gasoline trims in certain years. Hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions are FWD-only. The Fusion was discontinued after the 2020 model year, so prospective buyers should verify the drivetrain on any used unit before purchasing.
Is AWD actually better than FWD?
A vehicle sending power to four wheels can grip dry pavement better than one using just its front wheels, so it can take off a bit more quickly from a stop. In slippery conditions, like rain or ice, most AWD systems can shift power to where it's needed most to improve traction.
How do I know if my Ford Fusion is AWD or FWD?
A Ford Fusion with AWD (All-Wheel Drive) is better for traction in snow, ice, and rain, while a FWD (Front-Wheel Drive) model offers better fuel economy and simpler maintenance. The best choice depends on your priorities: AWD for all-weather capability, or FWD for efficiency and reliability. All-wheel drive was typically only available on gasoline-only models with the 2.0L or 2.7L EcoBoost engines, whereas FWD was standard on all gasoline models and exclusively used for all Hybrid and Energi models.
Ford Fusion AWD
- Pros:
- Improved traction and stability in poor weather conditions like snow, ice, or rain.
- Better acceleration and handling, especially during launches, as it uses all four wheels to put power down.
- Cons:
- Lower fuel economy due to the added weight and mechanical complexity.
- More components to maintain over time, potentially increasing long-term costs.
Ford Fusion FWD
- Pros:
- Better gas mileage.
- Simpler and less expensive to maintain because there are fewer components in the drivetrain.
- Cons:
- Less traction in slippery conditions compared to AWD models.
- May experience more torque steer, especially with powerful engines, when accelerating hard.
How to choose
- Choose AWD if: You live in an area with frequent snow, ice, or heavy rain and need the enhanced all-weather capability. Be prepared for the trade-off in fuel efficiency and maintenance.
- Choose FWD if: You prioritize fuel economy and lower maintenance costs. FWD can handle most weather conditions adequately, especially with the use of proper snow tires.
Are Ford Fusions RWD or FWD?
Ford Fusion (Americas)
| Ford Fusion | |
|---|---|
| Body style | 4-door sedan |
| Layout | Front-engine, front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Ford Contour and Ford Taurus (fourth generation) |
Which Ford Fusion is AWD?
All-wheel drive (AWD) is available on certain Ford Fusion models, primarily the SE and Titanium trims, and was offered for several model years from around 2013 to 2020. The specific availability depends on the model year, with the Titanium trim being an early AWD option and the SE gaining it in later years. For model years 2017 and 2018, several other trims also offered available AWD.
- Titanium: The Titanium trim was the first to offer AWD, starting in 2013, and continued to offer it through the 2020 model year.
- SE: The SE trim gained an available AWD option starting in the 2015 and 2016 model years and continued to offer it in subsequent years, including the final 2020 model year.
- Sport: The 2017 Ford Fusion Sport model came standard with AWD.
- Other trims: Ford offered available AWD on other trims for certain model years, such as 2017 and 2018.
