What is the difference between a Fusion S and SE?

The Fusion SE is the mid‑level trim that adds more powertrain options and features on top of the base Fusion S. Exact differences depend on the model year and market, so checking the window sticker for the specific car is essential.

What distinguishes the Fusion S

The Fusion S represents the entry point of the lineup, prioritizing value and simplicity. It tends to come with the essentials and a more modest set of features, while still delivering Ford’s practical sedan experience.

Powertrain and performance

Below is a representative look at what the S commonly offered across many model years. Variations by year are common, so verify the exact configuration for a given car.

• Standard engine: typically a 2.5-liter four-cylinder (non‑turbo).


• Transmission: a 6‑speed automatic is standard.


• Drivetrain: front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard; all‑wheel drive (AWD) was available only on select years or configurations.


• Acceleration and power: adequate for daily driving, with less pep than turbocharged options.

In summary, the S emphasizes efficiency and affordability, with fewer engine choices and less sporty performance than higher trims.

Interior and comfort

Interior features in the S focus on practicality and durability, with fewer upscale touches than higher trims.

• Seating: cloth upholstery and manual driver’s seat adjustments.


• Climate control: standard heating and cooling, with basic controls.


• Instruments and materials: simpler trim and dash finishes compared with SE or above.

Overall, the S offers a clean, functional interior without the more premium materials or seating options found later in the lineup.

Technology and safety

Technology in the S covers essential connectivity and entertainment, with more limited features than SE.

• Infotainment: basic SYNC system with a modest display and standard audio.


• Connectivity: Bluetooth and mobile pairing typically included; navigation is uncommon in this trim for many years.


• Driver aids: standard safety features are present but not as expansive as in higher trims; some advanced aids may be optional depending on year.

In short, the Fusion S prioritizes the basics—reliable transport with the essentials—without the expanded tech suite of later trims.

What distinguishes the Fusion SE

The Fusion SE expands on the S with more engine options, enhanced technology, and additional comfort and convenience features. It’s designed to offer more performance and a richer interior without stepping up to the top-tier Titanium family.

Powertrain and performance

Engine choices and performance tend to be more robust on the SE, often including turbocharged options and a greater emphasis on acceleration and versatility. Availability varies by year.

• Common engine options: a turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder in many years (for example, a 2.0-liter EcoBoost in several model years).


• Transmission: typically a 6‑speed automatic, with consistent gearing across SE models.


• Drivetrain: front‑wheel drive is standard; AWD was offered on certain SE configurations in some years.

Overall, the SE aims to deliver stronger performance and more engine variety than the S.

Interior and comfort

Inside, the SE adds more comfort and convenience features, giving a more refined driving experience than the base model.

• Seating: upgraded cloth or optional leatherette; power-adjustable driver’s seat is more commonly available.


• Climate control and comfort: improved or dual-zone climate control in many years; optional heated seats in some packages.


• Exterior finishes: larger or more stylized wheels and improved trim accents contribute to a more premium feel.

The SE’s interior aims to balance value with a more feature-rich, modern feel than the S.

Technology and safety

The SE typically introduces more advanced infotainment and safety options, with a broader range of available features depending on year and package.

• Infotainment: larger touchscreen options, such as MyFord Touch or Sync 3, and enhanced audio options in certain years.


• Connectivity: better smartphone integration and sometimes built‑in navigation when equipped.


• Safety and driver assists: options often include BLIS (blind-spot information system) and rear cross-traffic alert; adaptive cruise control and other advanced aids appear on higher-trim packages or specific years.

In practice, the SE offers a more modern tech experience and a wider array of safety features than the S, though exact offerings vary by year and market.

Summary

In the Ford Fusion lineup, the S is the value‑oriented base trim with essential features and a straightforward engine lineup. The SE sits a notch above, offering more powerful or diverse engine options, larger wheels, upgraded interior touches, and enhanced technology and safety features. Because trim contents shifted across model years and regions, the most reliable way to know the exact differences for a given car is to review the specific model year’s brochure or window sticker.

Closing note

For shoppers, a key takeaway is that the Fusion SE generally provides more performance, comfort, and tech than the Fusion S, but always verify the exact equipment list for the year you’re considering, as Ford periodically updated trims with different standard and optional features.

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 

What is the Ford Fusion SE package?

2020 Ford FusionSE
Includes S features, plus: Ten-way power driver's seat with power lumbar and four-way power front passenger seat. Dual-zone electronic automatic temperature control with rear A/C and heat vents. Six-speaker audio system.

What does the S mean on my Ford Fusion?

The "S" button on a Ford Fusion engages Sport mode, which changes the car's performance for more responsive acceleration and handling. This mode increases engine RPMs and holds lower gears longer, providing extra power for merging or driving in hilly terrain. It also affects the car's damping system to reduce body roll during spirited cornering. 
This video explains the difference between Drive and Sport modes in a Ford Fusion: 25sFord Motor CompanyYouTube · Jan 28, 2017
How Sport mode changes the driving experience

• More responsive acceleration: The engine shifts at higher RPMs, giving you a quicker and more powerful feel, especially when accelerating from a stop or merging onto a highway. 
• Enhanced handling: The suspension is adjusted to be firmer, which reduces body roll and increases responsiveness when turning. 
• Improved downhill control: In hilly areas, Sport mode will hold a lower gear, providing more engine braking to help control speed and reduce the need for constant braking. 
• Manual shifting: On models with the SelectShift feature, pressing the "S" button also allows you to manually shift gears using paddle shifters or buttons on the gear selector. 
• Sportier sound: The in-cabin noise cancellation is adjusted to allow a more aggressive engine sound to be heard. 

When to use Sport mode

• For performance driving: When you want a more engaging and powerful driving experience. 
• In hilly or mountainous areas: To help control your speed going downhill and provide more torque going uphill. 
• For merging onto a highway: When you need extra acceleration to safely merge into traffic. 

Important considerations

• Sport mode can decrease fuel efficiency compared to normal Drive mode because the engine is running at higher RPMs. 
• On some models, using Sport mode, especially for extended periods in hilly areas, can put extra strain on the transmission, so it is best to consult your owner's manual for specific recommendations. 

What is the difference between a Ford Fusion S and a Ford Fusion SE?

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

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