Ford Fusion

Performance

1.25-litre petrol struggles at speed so go for the 1.4 petrol or 1.6 turbodiesel.

Driving

Great grip thanks to stiff suspension and the steering is impressive. Trade-off is a bumpy ride around town.

Feel

Refinement isn't the Fusion's strong suit. Road noise intrudes and the smaller engines are annoyingly noisy.

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Price

Dubious whether the Fusion really offers value for money at about a grand more than the Fiesta for what's basically the same car, only slightly bigger. Running costs are middling

Quality

Good reputation for reliability,and while the interior isn't particularly plush it looks durable.

Safety

Driver and passenger airbags and ABS are standard. Side and curtain ’bags and stability control are optional.

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Space

Bigger boot than the Fiesta, on which the Fusion is based, but not much more and there's no noticeable improvement in the cabin. You'll seat four comfortably. No removable seats, though they do splitfold 60/40.

Equipment

CD player is standard and that's about it. Fusion+ trim gains a six-CD multichanger. Climate control, satnav, metallic paint and Bluetooth are new options.

Alternatives

Suzuki SX4, Fiat Idea

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Pros

Offers a bit more space than your average supermini, high driving position.

Cons

Too expensive, doesn't do much more than the Fiesta.

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