Home FAQ

Is the Ford Fusion SE fast?

The Ford Fusion SE is not a dedicated performance car, but its speed varies by engine and year. Some EcoBoost-equipped SE models can feel brisk, while the top-tier Fusion Sport is the genuinely fast variant. In short, SE offers respectable acceleration for a family sedan, not sports-car speed.

This article examines how fast a Ford Fusion SE can be across generations, what engines it used, and how its performance compares with the sportier Fusion variants and common rivals. It also notes that Ford discontinued the Fusion after the 2020 model year, so current buyers are shopping in the used-car market.

Engine options and performance range

Speed in the Fusion SE depends on the powertrain chosen and the model year. Here is a snapshot of typical performance you might encounter across common SE configurations.

Non-turbo four-cylinder engines (roughly 170–180 horsepower): acceleration is generally adequate for daily driving, with 0–60 mph times in approximately 8.5–9.5 seconds depending on weight and equipment.

Turbocharged EcoBoost engines (roughly 180–240 horsepower): these variants are noticeably quicker, with 0–60 mph times often in the mid-6 to low-7 seconds range, depending on year, drivetrain, and tuning.

Hybrid SE variants (where offered): combined system output around 188 horsepower; 0–60 mph times are typically in the 8–9 second range, prioritizing efficiency over outright speed.

In practice, the SE’s speed is enough for confident highway merging and quick highway overtakes, but it isn’t designed as a corner-bleeding, drag-strip performer. For a truly sporty experience, buyers typically look at the Fusion Sport or a different brand’s performance sedan.

Fastest Fusion versus SE: what to expect

The Fusion Sport as the performance benchmark

The Fusion Sport stands apart from the SE lineup with a more powerful engine and tuned suspension. Later Sport models used a high-output EcoBoost V6 (and some years featured a turbocharged V6 alternative) delivering substantially more horsepower—well above the SE range—resulting in substantially quicker 0–60 mph times. If speed is a priority, the Sport is the benchmark to compare against the SE, not the other way around.

Real-world driving: daily driving vs. straight-line speed

For most daily driving situations, an SE with a turbo EcoBoost engine offers a satisfying balance of responsiveness and fuel economy. The acceleration is more than adequate for merging and passing, but the experience won’t feel like a modern hot hatch or a high-performance sedan. In a head-to-head with rivals, the SE typically trails true performance-oriented trims and class leaders in straight-line speed, though it can still feel punchy when needed.

Ownership context and availability

Ford discontinued the Fusion after the 2020 model year, so current buyers are typically shopping for well-maintained used examples rather than new cars. Availability of specific SE powertrains depends on the model year and market, so prospective buyers should verify the exact engine, horsepower, and transmission when evaluating a used Fusion SE.

Practical considerations when shopping for speed

Beyond raw acceleration, consider how the SE’s power interacts with ride comfort, interior noise, and fuel economy. A faster engine may come with higher fuel use and stiffer handling in some trims, while a more modest engine can boost comfort and efficiency. Also weigh maintenance costs, warranty status, and the condition of the automatic transmission, which plays a big role in real-world acceleration.

Summary

The Ford Fusion SE offers a range of four-cylinder powertrains, and some EcoBoost options can feel deceptively quick for a family sedan. However, it is not a dedicated performance model—the standout fast Fusion is the Fusion Sport, which is substantially quicker. For most buyers, the SE provides a practical blend of brisk daily driving and efficiency, while true speed enthusiasts may prefer the Sport or alternative sporty sedans. As a used-car option, the Fusion remains a reasonable choice for those who value comfort, space, and regular acceleration performance.

Are Ford Fusions fast cars?

Whether a Ford Fusion is fast depends on the engine. The Fusion Sport models with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 are considered fast, achieving 0−600 minus 600−60 mph in about 5.3 seconds. However, other Fusion models with smaller engines, like the 1.5L EcoBoost or 2.5L four-cylinder, are not fast, with 0−600 minus 600−60 mph times in the 7.5 to 9.2 second range.

You can watch this video to learn more about the performance of the Ford Fusion Sport: 58sShooting CarsYouTube · May 4, 2025
Fast Fusion models (Fusion Sport)

Engine: 2.7L twin-turbo V6 EcoBoost
Horsepower: 325 hp
Torque: 380 lb-ft
Acceleration: 0−600 minus 600−60 mph in approximately 5.3 seconds
Drivetrain: All-wheel drive
Perception: A "sleeper" car because its performance is surprising for its appearance

Not-so-fast Fusion models

1.5L EcoBoost I-4: Had one of the slowest acceleration times in its class, around 9.2 seconds for 0−600 minus 600−60 mph
2.5L I-4: Achieved 0−600 minus 600−60 mph in about 7.5 seconds

Is Ford Fusion S or SE better?

The main differences between the Ford Fusion S and SE are that the SE trim includes a more powerful and efficient 1.5L EcoBoost engine (compared to the S's 2.5L engine), and adds more premium features like SYNC 3 infotainment, a reverse sensing system, and a six-speaker audio system. The SE also offers more power adjustments for the front seats and a higher-end standard wheel.
This video explains the difference between the SYNC 3 infotainment system and the standard SYNC system: 42sSaksham KotaYouTube · Jul 17, 2021

Feature	Ford Fusion S	Ford Fusion SE
Engine	2.5L Duratec 4-cylinder (175175175 hp)	1.5L EcoBoost turbocharged 4-cylinder (181181181 hp)
Fuel Economy (Est.)	212121 mpg city / 313131 mpg highway	232323 mpg city / 343434 mpg highway
Infotainment	Standard SYNC	SYNC 3 infotainment system
Audio System	4-speaker audio	6-speaker audio
Front Seats	Manual 6-way adjustable driver's seat	10-way power-adjustable driver's seat and 6-way power front passenger seat
Wheels	16-inch painted wheels	17-inch painted alloy wheels
Keypad Entry	No	Yes, standard SecuriCode™ keyless entry keypad
Safety	BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert and SOS Post-Crash Alert System™	All S features plus Ford Co-Pilot360™ Safety Suite
Additional Features	Rain-sensing wipers and push-button start	Reverse sensing system

Is a Ford Fusion SE turbo?

"The 181-horsepower, turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost engine in the SE felt underwhelming, but I expected that to a degree. You really have to lean into it to get it to move.

What does SE mean on fusion?

"Fusion SE" refers to the SE trim level of the Ford Fusion car, which is a step up from the base "S" model and adds more features, technology, and often better engine options. "SE" can stand for Special Edition, Sports Edition, or Sport Elegance, depending on the model year and the manufacturer's branding. Key features often include a power-adjustable driver's seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, an upgraded infotainment system like SYNC 3, and satellite radio.

Key features of the Ford Fusion SE

Upgraded Technology:
- SYNC 3 infotainment system with a touchscreen
- FordPass Connect with a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot
- Reverse Sensing System
- SiriusXM® Satellite Radio
- Two configurable 4.2-inch LCD screens in the instrument cluster
Enhanced Comfort and Convenience:
- Ten-way power driver's seat with power lumbar
- Four-way power front passenger seat
- Dual-zone electronic automatic temperature control
- SecuriCode™ Keyless Entry Keypad
Performance:
- Often comes with a more powerful engine option than the base model
- Includes features like Auto Start-Stop Technology to improve fuel efficiency
- Availability of both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive on some models
Exterior:
- May include upgraded wheels, such as 17-inch silver-painted aluminum wheels
- Often has a more distinct grille design than the base model

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.