Why are Ford Fusions discontinued?
Ford Motor Company has announced that it will be discontinuing the Ford Fusion sedan by the end of 2022. This decision is part of the automaker's broader strategy to shift its focus towards more profitable SUVs, crossovers, and trucks. The Fusion, once a popular and well-regarded midsize car, is being phased out as consumer preferences continue to move away from traditional passenger cars.
The Decline of Passenger Cars
The Ford Fusion's discontinuation is a reflection of the broader industry trend towards SUVs and crossovers. Over the past decade, consumer demand for passenger cars has steadily declined in the United States, while the popularity of larger, more versatile vehicles has surged. This shift in consumer preferences has led many automakers, including Ford, to reevaluate their product lineups and allocate more resources towards developing and marketing their SUV and truck offerings.
Ford's Strategic Shift
Ford's decision to discontinue the Fusion is part of the company's broader strategic shift towards more profitable and in-demand vehicle segments. The automaker has announced plans to phase out most of its traditional passenger car models, including the Fusion, Focus, and Taurus, in favor of expanding its SUV, crossover, and truck lineups. This move is aimed at improving Ford's overall profitability and aligning its product portfolio with the changing preferences of American consumers.
The Fusion's Declining Sales
The Fusion's discontinuation can also be attributed to its declining sales performance in recent years. Once a strong competitor in the midsize sedan segment, the Fusion's sales have steadily declined since peaking in 2013. This trend has been mirrored across the broader passenger car market, as consumers have increasingly gravitated towards larger, more versatile vehicles.
The Future of Ford's Lineup
As Ford phases out the Fusion and other passenger car models, the company is focusing its efforts on expanding its lineup of SUVs, crossovers, and trucks. Some of the key vehicles in Ford's future lineup include the popular F-150 pickup, the Expedition and Explorer SUVs, and the Mustang Mach-E electric crossover. These larger, more profitable vehicles are expected to play a central role in Ford's strategy to improve its overall financial performance and better meet the evolving needs and preferences of American consumers.
