What platform is the Ford Fusion built on?
The Ford Fusion has two platform generations across its production run. The 2006–2012 first generation used Ford's CD3 architecture, while the 2013–2020 second generation adopted the newer CD4 platform. The model was discontinued in the United States in 2020. This article explains how those platforms underpin the Fusion and what changed between generations.
Platform history
First generation: CD3 (2006–2012)
The 2006 Ford Fusion launched on the CD3 front‑wheel‑drive platform, a mid‑size car architecture that Ford used for several models at the time. CD3 supported a range of engines and transmissions and allowed for front‑ and all‑wheel‑drive configurations. Vehicles built on this platform emphasized practical interior space, safety features, and competitive ride quality, shared components with related Ford and Lincoln products to enhance manufacturing efficiency.
Second generation: CD4 (2013–2020)
The 2013 refresh moved the Fusion onto Ford's CD4 platform, a more modern, global mid‑size sedan architecture designed to improve safety, weight management, and drivetrain integration. CD4 enabled better crash performance, updated electronics, and compatibility with newer EcoBoost engines. This platform underpinned the Fusion through its final years in the U.S. market, as Ford shifted its focus toward SUVs and electrified models.
What a platform means for a car
In automotive terms, a platform (also called a vehicle architecture) is the underlying set of engineering foundations—such as the chassis, suspension, powertrain mounting, and major structural components—that shapes how a car is built and how it behaves on the road. Different generations of a model can move to newer platforms to improve safety, efficiency, and performance while enabling broader parts sharing with other models.
Summary
The Ford Fusion was built on two distinct platform families during its lifetime: CD3 for the 2006–2012 generation and CD4 for the 2013–2020 generation. The model was discontinued in 2020 in the United States as Ford redirected development toward SUVs and electrified vehicles. The platform shifts reflect Ford’s broader strategy to standardize underpinnings across its lineup while pursuing improvements in safety, efficiency, and driving dynamics.
What car is the Ford Fusion based on?
First generation (2006)
| First generation | |
|---|---|
| Platform | Ford CD3 platform |
| Related | Lincoln MKZ Mazda6 Mercury Milan |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | Gasoline: 2.3 L Duratec 23 I4 2.5 L Duratec 25 I4 3.0 L Duratec 30 V6 3.5 L Duratec 35 V6 Gasoline Hybrid: 2.5 L Duratec 25 I4 |
What is the CD3 platform?
The Ford CD3 platform (for "C/D-class") is a Ford midsize car automobile platform. It was designed by Mazda. The platform is designed for either front, all-wheel drive or Ford's hybrid powertrain.
What platform is the Ford Fusion on?
The Ford CD4 platform is a Ford global midsize/fullsize automobile platform.
Do Ford and Mazda share platforms?
This partnership led to collaborative models like: Mazda6 and Ford Fusion (shared platforms) Mazda Tribute and Ford Escape. Ford Ranger and Mazda B-Series pickup trucks.
