What year did Ford Fusion change body style?

The big body style shift for the Ford Fusion occurred with the 2013 model year, when Ford introduced a redesigned, more aerodynamic third-generation Fusion that aligned with its global design language.

Tracing the Fusion's body style evolution

To understand when the body style changed, it's helpful to look at the model's generational timeline and the notable updates within each period.

• First generation (2006–2009): The original Fusion featured a traditional, rounded sedan silhouette with soft lines.


• Second generation (2010–2012): A mid-cycle refresh brought sharper styling and updated interior features, signaling a shift but not a full redesign.


• Third generation (2013–2020): A clean break from the past, the 2013 Fusion adopted a more global, aerodynamic design with a longer, lower stance and expanded hybrid options.

The major body style change is associated with the 2013 model year, marking a shift to Ford's more aggressive, European-influenced design language while earlier updates in 2010 were primarily refinements.

What changed specifically in 2013

Ford's 2013 Fusion introduced several visible and mechanical changes that defined the new look and feel of the model across the lineup.

Key design cues

Before delving into details, note that the following highlights summarize what distinguish the 2013 model from its predecessors.

• Sharper exterior lines and a lower, more sculpted silhouette.


• A distinctive new front fascia with a trapezoidal grille and sleeker headlights.


• An updated interior with higher-quality materials and improved controls.


• Expanded powertrain options, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants, aimed at boosting fuel efficiency.

Those changes set the 2013 model year apart from pre-2013 Fusions, marking the most significant body style shift in the model's history up to that point.

Broader context: production and availability

Production of the Ford Fusion continued after the 2013 redesign, with ongoing updates through the 2019 model year and a refreshed 2017–2018 lineup. Ford ultimately discontinued the Fusion for the U.S. market after the 2020 model year, ending the model’s run in the United States.

Summary

In summary, the Ford Fusion’s most notable body style change occurred with the 2013 model year, when Ford launched a third-generation, globally styled sedan that emphasized a more aerodynamic silhouette and hybrid options. Earlier updates in 2010 served as mid-cycle refinements, but the 2013 redesign represents the principal shift in the Fusion’s appearance and design language. The model line continued through 2020 before Ford discontinued the Fusion in the U.S.

What years are the Ford Fusion generation?

The Ford Fusion was produced from 2006 to 2020, with two main generations and several facelifts. The first generation ran from 2006-2012, with a facelift for the 2010 model year. The second generation was introduced for the 2013 model year and lasted until production ended in 2020, featuring a major facelift for the 2017 model year.
 
First generation (2006–2012) 

• 2006–2009: Initial model years with a base four-cylinder engine and an optional V6. 
• 2010–2012: The first major refresh, with updated styling and features. 

Second generation (2013–2020)

• 2013–2016: The all-new second generation debuted. 
• 2017–2020: The second generation received a facelift with updated front and rear styling and the addition of Sport and Platinum trim levels. 
• 2020: The final model year before production ended. 

What generation is the 2017 Ford Fusion?

second generation
The second generation saw a facelift in 2017, updating both front and rear styling. The Sport and Platinum trim levels were added in the same year, making the Fusion a desirable option for those looking for luxury upgrades.

What year is the best year for the Ford Fusion?

The best Ford Fusion years are often cited as the final model years (2019-2020) for their features and reliability, and earlier models (2006-2012) for strong value and proven durability. If considering hybrids or models from 2013-2016, be aware of potential transmission issues in the earlier years and prioritize models from 2016 or newer, or those with the more reliable 2.5L engine.
 
Best years to buy

• 2019-2020: These final years are considered excellent for being well-equipped and having good reliability ratings, though some minor electrical issues have been reported. 
• 2010: This year is noted for its high reliability and strong driving performance ratings. 
• 2006-2012: This first generation is widely considered a top value for the money, offering solid reliability and affordability. 

Years to approach with caution

• 2013-2016: Be cautious of these years due to reported transmission issues and recall notices for both standard and hybrid models. If considering a model from this era, it is best to check for service records, especially for hybrids. 

Engine considerations

• Reliable engine: The 2.5L 4-cylinder engine is generally considered the most reliable. 
• Engines to be cautious of: Turbocharged engines have a reputation for having problems, and the 2013-2016 4-cylinder engines had a known issue with their engine blocks that was not resolved until mid-2020 models. 

What generation is the 2016 Ford Fusion?

2013-2016 Ford Fusion 2nd Gen (CD4)
The completely redesigned CD4 came with the carry-over 175-hp NA 2.5L four-pot, but the V6 was replaced with a 240-hp 2.0L turbo-four.