Offering 41 MPG combined, the 2016 Ford Fusion Hybrid earns a prominent place among midsize sedans, especially for those who want fuel savings without sacrificing comfort and features. It’s a mainstream sedan with a turbocharged engine with electric motor appealing to commuters, small families, and ride-sharing drivers, all of whom want to minimize trips to the gas station.

City and highway performance

The 2016 Fusion Hybrid performs well in stop-and-go traffic, delivering an impressive 43 MPG in the city. The hybrid system’s regenerative braking and electric motor excel here, allowing for significant fuel savings compared to gasoline-powered vehicles. The 2.0L 4-cylinder engine works smoothly with the electric motor. Near-silent operation in electric-only mode, common at low speeds and during light acceleration, creates a more relaxed driving experience in urban environments. On the highway, the Fusion Hybrid achieves a respectable 39 MPG. While not as dramatic as the city figure, it’s still strong for a midsize sedan, ensuring efficient long-distance travel.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Ford Fusion Hybrid at $1,050. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Drivers covering more miles, or those facing higher local fuel costs, could save even more. This low annual fuel cost is a key selling point, directly impacting the owner’s budget and making the Fusion Hybrid a financially savvy choice for those seeking to reduce their transportation expenses. This demonstrates the economic advantages of hybrid technology. You can view all Ford fuel economy data on our site.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, but real-world fuel economy can vary depending on driving habits, terrain, and weather conditions. Expect slightly lower numbers with aggressive driving or primarily driving on steep inclines. Hard acceleration and high speeds reduce the hybrid system’s effectiveness. But drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration, anticipate traffic flow, and use cruise control will likely get closer to, or even exceed, the EPA estimates. Tire pressure also subtly influences fuel efficiency.

Regularly checking and inflating tires to the recommended pressure helps maintain optimal rolling resistance.

How it compares

The 2016 Fusion Hybrid’s fuel economy makes it competitive within the hybrid sedan segment. The Toyota Camry Hybrid, which achieves a combined 40 MPG in its LE trim, offers similar fuel efficiency. The Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, rated at 40 MPG combined, provides another alternative. The Ford C-Max Hybrid, a hatchback with similar hybrid technology, offers a slightly higher combined rating of 42 MPG. Fusion Hybrid buyers want practicality and comfort in addition to fuel savings. They might trade one or two MPG for the conventional sedan styling and driving dynamics that appeal to a broader audience. This site showcases FUSION MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to maximizing fuel economy in the Fusion Hybrid. Avoid hard starts and rapid acceleration, allowing the electric motor to contribute more to initial propulsion. The dashboard display provides feedback on your driving style, helping you stay in the most efficient range.

Using cruise control on the highway can maintain a consistent speed, reducing unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. This is especially effective on relatively flat stretches of road. Be mindful of using cruise control on hilly terrain, as the system may downshift aggressively to maintain speed, which reduces efficiency.

Anticipate traffic flow to minimize braking. By looking ahead and gradually decelerating, you can maximize regenerative braking, which recovers energy and recharges the battery. Avoid sudden stops when possible. Maintaining a safe following distance also creates smoother driving and reduces the need for hard braking.

Reduce weight in the vehicle. Carrying extra cargo increases the workload on the engine and hybrid system, slightly reducing fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need regularly. Also, consider external accessories, such as roof racks, which can increase aerodynamic drag and lower MPG.

Regular maintenance, including oil changes and tire rotations, is for optimal fuel economy. A maintained engine runs more efficiently, and correctly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule to keep your Fusion Hybrid running well.