What is the best motor in the Ford Fusion?

There isn’t a single universal “best” engine for every driver. If you crave performance, the Fusion Sport’s powertrain tops the list; if efficiency matters most, the hybrid and plug‑in hybrid options lead the pack; for a solid all‑around choice, the 2.0L EcoBoost strikes a balanced compromise.

Ford produced the Fusion with multiple powertrains over its run (2013–2020 in North America), including gasoline EcoBoost options, a base naturally aspirated engine, and dedicated hybrid and plug‑in hybrid variants. The article below breaks down the options and what they deliver in real-world terms.

Gasoline engines

These engines power most Fusion trims and offer a mix of brisk acceleration and everyday usability. The numbers vary by year and trim, but the general performance themes hold true.

• 2.0L EcoBoost turbocharged inline-4: About 240 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque. This is the strongest all‑gas engine in most Fusion models and provides a solid blend of performance and efficiency for daily driving.


• 2.5L naturally aspirated inline-4: Roughly 175 hp (entry‑level option) with modest torque. It’s generally reliable and simple, but less punchy than EcoBoost variants.


• 2.7L EcoBoost V6 (Fusion Sport): Up to about 325 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque. The top‑tier powerplant for the Fusion Sport, delivering rapid acceleration and all‑weather grip with AWD, at the cost of fuel economy.

Conclusion: Among gasoline engines, the 2.0L EcoBoost offers the best everyday balance of power and efficiency for most buyers, while the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 is the clear winner for performance enthusiasts.

Hybrid and plug-in options

For top-tier efficiency and lower running costs, these powertrains emphasize fuel economy, with the plug‑in variant offering a glimpse of electric‑only driving.

• Fusion Hybrid: A 2.0L Atkinson‑cycle gas engine paired with an electric motor; total output around the mid‑to‑high 180s horsepower and a combined fuel economy typically in the low to mid‑40s mpg range, depending on year and driving style.


• Fusion Energi (plug-in hybrid): A larger battery paired with the same 2.0L Atkinson-cycle engine; offers roughly 20 miles of electric‑only range (varies by year) and a combined efficiency in the 40s mpg when the gasoline engine is used, often with a higher MPGe rating in EV mode.

Conclusion: If you can regularly plug in, the Energi plug-in hybrid provides the most electric‑driving benefits; if you prefer not to plug in, the Hybrid still delivers excellent efficiency and easy ownership.

Performance-focused engine

Ford’s high‑performance variant in the Fusion lineup is designed for speed and highway capability, trading some efficiency for acceleration and grip.

2.7L EcoBoost V6 (Fusion Sport)

The Fusion Sport uses a twin‑turbocharged 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 delivering about 325 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque, paired with all‑wheel drive in many configurations. It’s the most powerful Fusion engine Ford offered, ideal for quick launches and confident highway merging, but it sacrifices fuel economy and carries a premium price tag. This powertrain stands out when performance takes priority over efficiency.

In context, the “best” engine for a Ford Fusion depends on what you value most—nimble speed, long-run efficiency, or a balanced everyday drive. The 2.0L EcoBoost serves most buyers well; the Hybrid and Energi variants suit efficiency-minded owners who can plug in; and the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 in the Fusion Sport is the sportiest option for those chasing peak performance.

Summary: There isn’t a single best engine for all buyers of the Ford Fusion. Choose based on priorities: performance (2.7L EcoBoost V6 in Fusion Sport), balanced daily use (2.0L EcoBoost), or efficiency and economy (Hybrid or Energi plug‑in). The Fusion’s engine lineup was broad, and the right choice depends on your driving needs and charging capabilities.

What is the most reliable Ford Fusion?

The most reliable Ford Fusion models are generally considered to be the 2019 and 2020 model years, with other 2013-2020 second-generation models being fairly reliable as well. For hybrids, 2016 and newer are better, while for non-hybrid models, the 2.5L engine and the 2.7L sport engine are often cited as reliable options, but it's crucial to avoid 2.0L models from 2017 and newer due to potential coolant intrusion issues. 
Most reliable years and engines

• 2019-2020: These are often cited as the most reliable, with newer technology and good reliability scores from sources like CarGurus and CarBuzz. 
• 2016-2020: Generally a good range for reliability, especially for hybrid models which had mechanical updates in 2016 that improved transmission reliability. 
• 2013-2020: Overall, the second-generation Fusions are considered reliable, but it's best to avoid early hybrid/Energi models. 
• Engines to consider:
  • 2.5L 4-cylinder: A very reliable and trouble-free engine, especially with regular maintenance. 
  • 2.7L Sport: A powerful and robust engine that has proven reliable for many owners. 
  • 2013-2016 2.0L EcoBoost: A good choice, as later 2.0L models are more prone to coolant intrusion issues. 

Engines and years to be cautious about

• 2017-2020 2.0L EcoBoost: Due to the risk of coolant intrusion into the engine. 
• Early hybrids (2013-2015): These had some early issues with transmission reliability. 

Other considerations

• Maintenance: Regardless of the year, regular maintenance and fluid changes are crucial for long-term reliability. 
• Hybrid warranty: Hybrid models have a long warranty, so buying one under the warranty period can provide added peace of mind. 

What is the best engine in the Ford Fusion?

The best Ford Fusion engine depends on your priorities: for maximum reliability, the 2.5L naturally aspirated engine is the top choice. For performance, the 2.7L twin-turbo V6 in the Fusion Sport is the most powerful option. The 2.0L EcoBoost is a middle-ground option offering more power than the base engine but has some documented reliability issues, especially in earlier models. 
You can watch this video to learn about the reliability of different Ford Fusion engines: 58sThe Long Last ExpertYouTube · Aug 26, 2024
For Reliability

• 2.5L Naturally Aspirated: This is consistently cited as the most reliable engine, making it the best choice for a long-lasting daily driver. 
• Hybrid: Hybrid models are also generally considered reliable options. 

For Performance

• 2.7L Twin-Turbo V6 (Fusion Sport): This engine is the most powerful, delivering 325 horsepower, and is paired with a robust 6-speed automatic transmission. 
• 2.0L EcoBoost: A good option for more spirited driving, offering noticeably quicker acceleration than the base 2.5L. However, it's not as powerful as the 2.7L V6 and can have reliability issues in certain years, so checking if the engine has been replaced is recommended. 

Considerations

• 1.5L and 1.6L EcoBoost: These smaller turbo engines are often considered underpowered for the weight of the Fusion and have had engine block failure issues in some model years. 
• Engine Health: For any EcoBoost engine (1.5L, 1.6L, 2.0L, 2.7L), it is crucial to check for a history of engine replacement due to known coolant leak and overheating issues, particularly in models from 2013-2016. 
• Aftermarket Support: The 2.0L EcoBoost from 2013-2016 has more aftermarket support if you plan on modifying the engine. 

What Ford engine to stay away from?

Ford engines to avoid include the 6.0L and 6.4L Power Stroke diesels, which had numerous issues like EGR cooler failures and injector problems, and the 5.4L Triton V8 known for spark plug and timing chain problems. Other engines to be cautious of are the 3.8L V6 due to head gasket failures and certain EcoBoost engines, especially early 1.0L and 1.6L models, which have faced issues like premature timing belt wear and overheating. 
You can watch this video to learn about some of the worst Ford engines ever made: 59sCar WisdomsYouTube · May 2, 2025
Engines with high failure rates 

• 6.0L and 6.4L Power Stroke diesel engines: These engines (2003-2007 and 2008-2010, respectively) are notorious for expensive problems, including head gasket failures, injector issues, and turbocharger failures. 
• 5.4L Triton V8: This engine (1997-2010) is infamous for spark plugs breaking during removal and cam phaser/timing chain issues. 
• 3.8L SX V6: From 1982 to 2008, this engine had issues with weak head bolts causing head gasket failures, and early versions were prone to coolant leaks. 

This video discusses the 5.4L Triton V8 in detail: 53sSeats & WheelsYouTube · Aug 10, 2025
Problematic EcoBoost engines

• 1.0L EcoBoost (early versions): Early models used a rubber timing belt in hot engine oil, which could degrade and clog the oil pickup, leading to oil starvation and engine damage. 
• 1.6L EcoBoost: This engine has been associated with overheating and coolant leaks. 
• 3.5L EcoBoost: Problems can include carbon buildup, premature timing chain wear, and water pump failures. 
• 2.7L EcoBoost: Early models (around 2016-2017) experienced issues with defective valve guides, excessive oil consumption, and leaking plastic oil pans. 

You can watch this video for more information about EcoBoost engine issues: 1mExoticCar PlayPlaceYouTube · Nov 15, 2025

Is the Ford 1.5 L turbo a good engine?

The Ford 1.5L turbo is a good engine for power and efficiency, but some earlier models have a significant and costly coolant intrusion issue. Newer models, typically those built after mid-2019, have an updated engine block that resolves this problem, making them more reliable. Therefore, whether the engine is considered "good" largely depends on the specific model year, with newer versions being a much safer bet. 
This video discusses the common problems and reliability of the 1.5L EcoBoost engine: 58s8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Feb 29, 2024
Pros

• Good performance: It offers a balance of responsive acceleration and impressive fuel economy. 
• Efficient: The three-cylinder design provides good fuel consumption, with some drivers reporting up to 30 mpg on the highway. 
• Smoothness: Modern three-cylinder engines like this one are often well-balanced and can be surprisingly smooth. 

Cons

• Coolant intrusion: Earlier versions of the engine (particularly those built before mid-2019) are prone to a coolant leak into the cylinders, which can lead to engine failure and requires an expensive engine replacement.
• High repair cost: A coolant intrusion issue can be very costly to fix, sometimes costing thousands of dollars. 

What to do

• For newer vehicles: If buying a vehicle with a 1.5L EcoBoost, try to ensure it was built after June 12, 2019, as it will have the updated, more reliable engine block design. 
• For older vehicles: Be cautious, as an older vehicle may be affected by the coolant leak issue. If it's already had the engine replaced, it likely has the updated block and is a safer option. 
• For existing owners: Perform regular maintenance and be sure to check for any signs of coolant loss or misfires, especially on startup, as these can be early indicators of the coolant intrusion problem. 

You can watch this video to learn more about the 1.5L and 2.0L EcoBoost engine problems: 58sFlying WrenchesYouTube · Sep 2, 2024