Thoughts on the Ford Fusion / Mercury Milan?

[MrChad]

My wife and I just moved to the VA area from NYC with our new baby. I traded in my 02 RSX for an 06 Sonata and paid the difference in cash, but I think we need to get a second car.

I'm looking to get a similar mid-size car that can still accommodate a car seat, and I've heard good things about the Fusion and Milan. I understand that they are the same as the Mazda 6 platform, but since I'm going to finance part of this purchase, I think I may find better incentives at Ford/Mercury than at Mazda. My questions are:

1. Would I be better off getting the V6 or the I-4? The difference in mileage doesn't seem to be huge between the two.

2. Should I look at used cars or try to get a closeout deal on a new 07 model? 06 is the first model year for these models, correct?

3. If you've purchased one of these cars recently, can you share what you paid for the car? Via PM is fine.

Thanks for the help folks.

 

[Zenmervolt]

I test drove a Fusion a year ago ('06 model) and really liked the car. I think that Ford has done an exceptional job with the Fusion. As for your questions:

1) You'll almost never catch me recommending the smaller engine in any car, but I'm pretty easily seduced by power. Aside from mileage, there's no compelling reason to get the 4-cylinder, and the V6 has been a decent engine.

2) I would look into getting a new one. With the current option of 0% APR and the amount that Ford is generally willing to deal on the price it's a very nice deal right now.

3) Can't help you, I ended up buying a Mustang GT and trading that in a year later for a more practical and cheaper used car.

ZV

 

[MrChad]

Thanks ZV. It seems like the main advantages of the I-4 are: better price, (slightly) better mileage and the availability of the 5 speed manual. I may test drive both to see if the V6 is worth the extra cost.

 

[vi edit]

Definitely nice cars and offer quite a bit of bang for the buck.

From a cross shop standpoint be sure to check out the Saturn Aura. You can get the XE version (3.5L V6 that gets 30MPG) for under 20k.

 

[MrChad]

Originally posted by: vi_edit
Definitely nice cars and offer quite a bit of bang for the buck.

From a cross shop standpoint be sure to check out the Saturn Aura. You can get the XE version (3.5L V6 that gets 30MPG) for under 20k.

Thanks I'll have to check it out. I like the look of the Aura, but I've been a bit skeptical about Saturn's quality and reliability in the past.

 

[NutBucket]

Well, if you want the 5-speed you should be able to get a Mazda6 V6 with one. I know they offered it initially anyway.

 

[PricklyPete]

Great car for the money. Friend bought one. I really don't think there is a better overall value for the money and the car has gotten very good ratings reliability wise. The only downside for me is I hate the headlights/rear lights...not the shape, but the chrome type thing they are doing with them. Unfortunately the Aura has the same problem...but I like the look a bit more. Also a great car (although I've only drove the higher end XR model).

I would highly recommend either car...and this is the first time in my life (I'm only 29) where I feel a Ford/GM vehicle in this *segment* is worth recommending.

 

[Jawo]

I looked at the Fusion recently when I was looking for a new car. After going to the car show in January, I swore that was the car I wanted. A few weeks ago, I got it down to pretty much the Fusion vs the Mazda6, both have V6 engines and very similar price points. Both cars looked great on the outside, but the Fusion just seemed plain on the inside. Plus the Mazda has the automatic with manual option...and a 5 door version. In the end I got the Mazda6 S Touring 5 door and couldn't be happier.

Get the V6 for nothing else than you'll want the power!

 

[mwmorph]

The I4 is slow under 3k rpms, even in city driving, you'll have to punch it up to 3k, maybe a little more on the auto tranny in my experience to get it to go anywhere quickly(about as quick as a prius at about 2-2.5k rpm). The only weird thing is that at and above 3k rpm, the engine suddenly gets a lot louder.

I'd recommend the V6

 

[theeedude]

Is Fusion getting the 3.5L Duratec soon? I'd hit that with AWD
But 2.3L with 5M is what I have on my Mazda3, and I like it. 3.0L is kind of gutless with an auto, and of course, autos are super boring.
But with 3.5L, I may be swayed.

 

[drpootums]

Take a look at the Saturn Aura. The Aura has been getting great reviews and would be worth a look. Build quality issues aren't as big anymore for GM products, things are changing for the better in that company.