What is the best year of the Ford Fusion Sport?
Most buyers and reviewers consider the 2017–2019 Ford Fusion Sport to be the standout years. Those models introduced the strongest engine option and refined handling, while the Fusion lineup ended after the 2019 model year.
Why the 2017–2019 Fusion Sport is commonly favored
The following section highlights the core reasons many buyers look to these years when considering a Fusion Sport, focusing on power, handling, and tech refinements.
- Powertrain: 2017–2019 Fusion Sport uses a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 delivering about 325 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque, providing strong, confident acceleration and highway capability.
- Drivetrain and handling: All-wheel drive was available and the chassis was tuned for sharper, more planted handling compared with non-Sport trims.
- Transmission and drive modes: A modern automatic transmission with sport-oriented shift characteristics and selectable drive modes contributed to a more engaging driving experience.
- Interior and tech: The era brought updated infotainment and a more premium feel inside, aligning with contemporary mid-size sedans for comfort and usability.
- Styling and exclusivity: The Sport trim included distinctive styling cues, sport seats, and exhaust details that set it apart from lower trims.
These attributes, collectively, make the 2017–2019 window the most recommended for those seeking the Fusion Sport’s blend of performance and practicality.
What to watch if you’re shopping used
Even within the 2017–2019 range, individual cars vary. If you’re considering a used Fusion Sport, it helps to know common wear items and where problems tend to surface so you can negotiate confidently and avoid surprises.
- Look for documented service history on the turbocharged engine and the automatic transmission—regular oil changes and scheduled maintenance are crucial for a turbo engine.
- Check for signs of exhaust or turbo leakage, unusual noises, or power loss that could indicate turbo or intake system issues.
- Inspect the AWD components and suspension for wear, including bushings, mounts, and alignment, which can affect handling and ride quality.
- Review recall notices and completed campaigns; ensure infotainment and safety features function correctly on the screen interface and sensors.
In short, for buyers, a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection and verification of service records are essential when evaluating a used Fusion Sport.
When in doubt, hire a qualified mechanic to perform a pre-purchase inspection and test-drive the car to assess throttle response, transmission behavior, and steering feel across conditions.
Summary
The 2017–2019 Ford Fusion Sport stands as the best overall year window for this model, thanks to its strong turbocharged powerplant, available all-wheel drive, and refined tech package. If you want the most performance per dollar, those years are your best bet before Ford shifted away from sedans. For older models, expect trade-offs in power or tech; there are no later Fusion Sport models, making the 2017–2019 window the practical focal point for buyers today.
