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What can I do to make my Ford Fusion faster?

To make a Ford Fusion faster, your best options are choosing a faster stock model (like the Fusion Sport) or applying reliable performance upgrades such as tuning, intake and exhaust improvements, and weight/handling enhancements. The exact gains depend on your model year, drivetrain, and budget, and you should consider warranty, emissions, and insurance implications before modifying.


Factory options that offer the most speed


Factory or near-factory paths provide the most reliable gains with potential warranty support. Here are the primary routes some buyers pursue to achieve higher performance.



  • Fusion Sport (model years 2017–2019) with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 and sport-tuned suspension, offering the strongest factory performance in the Fusion lineup.

  • Factory performance packages or Ford Performance parts where offered in your market/year, which can include calibrated suspensions and braking upgrades for improved dynamics.

  • All-wheel-drive variants paired with high-performance trims (where available) to improve traction during launch and under acceleration.


Choosing these factory options provides the most reliable path to speed while preserving drivability and resale value.


Bolt-on performance upgrades (engine and exhaust)


Below are common parts enthusiasts use to increase power, along with typical considerations for a Fusion. Gains vary by engine and installation quality, and many upgrades require supporting modifications to maintain reliability and emissions compliance.



  • ECU remap/tune: Calibrated engine control unit changes to increase boost (for EcoBoost engines), timing, and fueling. Expect roughly 20–60 hp depending on engine and tune; more on turbocharged variants.

  • Cold-air intake: Gains typically 5–15 hp and improved throttle response; effects are often modest on turbocharged engines.

  • Cat-back or turbo-back exhaust: Gains about 5–30 hp depending on system; reduces backpressure and may improve weight and sound.

  • Intercooler upgrade: Cooler charge air can yield 10–40 hp gains and helps prevent heat soak during sustained boost, especially on turbocharged engines.

  • Forced-induction upgrades (turbo or supercharger): Some kits exist for EcoBoost engines, but they are high-cost, complex, and require extensive supporting mods (fuel, cooling, transmission, and wiring). They can affect reliability, warranty, and emissions.

  • Support mods and tuning considerations: Upgraded fuel pumps/injectors, improved intercooler piping, and transmission shift-timing calibrations may be needed to maintain reliability with higher power levels.


In short, bolt-on upgrades can boost power, but they require careful planning, professional installation, and a clear understanding of the potential impact on warranty and emissions.


Weight reduction and handling improvements


Power alone isn’t the only route to a faster-feeling car. Reducing weight and improving grip can noticeably improve acceleration, braking, and cornering without running more boost. Here are practical strategies.



  • Lighter wheels and performance tires: Forged or lighter wheels reduce unsprung mass; sticky, properly sized tires improve traction and braking.

  • Suspension and handling upgrades: Upgraded springs, dampers, and sway bars can sharpen steering response and reduce body roll for quicker transitions.

  • Brake upgrades: Larger rotors, higher-friction pads, and performance calipers help maintain stopping power under higher speeds and during aggressive driving.

  • Weight-saving steps: Removing nonessential items or substituting lighter components can lower overall weight, but balance practicality for daily driving.

  • Aerodynamics and ride height: Moderate lowering and attention to aero setup can marginally reduce drag and improve stability at speed; avoid extreme modifications that harm daily usability.


Weight and handling improvements are a cost-effective way to feel faster, especially on models with smaller engines, and they complement power upgrades well.


Maintenance, warranty, and legality considerations


Before modifying, understand the implications for warranty, emissions compliance, and insurance. Here are important cautions to keep in mind.



  • Warranty impact: Many powertrain and performance modifications can affect Ford warranty coverage; verify terms with your dealer and review your warranty booklet.

  • Emissions and inspections: Some aftermarket parts or tunes can cause your vehicle to fail emissions tests or fail inspection requirements in your region.

  • Insurance considerations: Modifications can change insurance premiums or coverage terms; inform your insurer and obtain quotes for the modified setup.

  • Professional installation: Work with a reputable shop experienced with Ford EcoBoost platforms to ensure reliability and correct tuning.

  • Drivetrain limits: Upgraded outputs may require reinforcing other components (fuel system, cooling, transmission) to avoid premature wear or failure.


Plan modifications with a clear sense of budget, goals, and local regulatory constraints to avoid surprises.


Model-year notes and practical expectations


Gains vary by engine, drivetrain, and chassis tuning. Here is a practical snapshot by common Fusion configurations.



  • 1.5L and 2.0L EcoBoost models: Tuning and exhaust upgrades can yield meaningful gains in the mid-range horsepower, with conventional bolt-ons delivering roughly 20–60 extra horsepower depending on the setup and supporting mods.

  • Fusion Sport (2.7L EcoBoost V6): Already a high-performance variant; additional power gains from bolt-ons exist but typically require substantial investment and careful integration with cooling and transmission components.

  • Natural-aspirated 2.5L or older engines: Gains from performance mods are generally more modest and require careful tuning to avoid reliability issues.


In all cases, expected real-world improvements depend on the specific model year, drivetrain, and how thoroughly the supporting systems are upgraded to handle increased power and heat.


Summary


The fastest path to a quicker Fusion starts with choosing a faster factory option when possible (notably the Fusion Sport) and then expanding with carefully planned bolt-on upgrades, weight and handling improvements, and prudent maintenance. Always consider warranty, emissions, and insurance implications, and work with qualified professionals to design a cohesive plan that suits your budget and goals.

How to take off speed limiter on Ford Fusion?


The system is operated by adjustment controls mounted on the steering wheel. Press LIM CNCL/OFF to set the limiter in standby mode. The information display prompts you to set a speed. Press LIM CNCL/OFF with the limiter in standby mode to turn the system OFF.



How to boost a Ford Fusion?


Side. Next use the hood rod to prop up the hood. Properly. Make sure it's secured in the right location up at the top of the hood. As well the battery is located on the right hand side of the vehicle.



How fast can you make a Ford Fusion?


Ford Fusion owners discuss the maximum speed of their vehicles, with some reporting speeds over 140 mph, and others noting that the speed is governed to 150 mph All vehicles sold in the US are governed to 155mph, no matter what it says on the speedometer. Šáhìth Réddy not sure what you're showing?



Can you tune a Ford Fusion?


Unleash the power & torque in your Ford Fusion with Custom Tunes from Unleashed Tuning. Includes custom files plus post sale calibration support. This option is chosen for those that already have an SCT programmer and wish to buy files for their existing device.


Kevin's Auto

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.