20 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but for the 2019 Ford Fusion AWD with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6, it’s a practical compromise. This isn’t the Fusion you buy to hypermile, it’s the Fusion you buy when you prioritize confident all-weather traction and a surprising dose of mid-range torque over ultimate fuel efficiency. Think of it as the grown-up’s hot rod, understated, capable, and accepting of its thirst.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2019 Fusion AWD 2.7L break down to 17 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. That city figure reflects the reality of hauling around all-wheel-drive components and a larger engine in stop-and-go traffic. The highway number is more respectable, and achievable if you resist the urge to dip into the EcoBoost’s readily available power. The six-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, contributes to the lower numbers compared to more modern transmissions with additional gears. It’s a trade-off; the six-speed prioritizes reliability and lower complexity over squeezing out every last mile per gallon.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Ford Fusion AWD 2.7L at $2,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Individual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used. While the EcoBoost engine doesn’t strictly require premium fuel, some drivers report slightly improved performance and fuel economy when using it.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates are a useful benchmark, but real-world fuel economy will always vary. Drivers who frequently engage the all-wheel-drive system in snowy or off-road conditions can expect to see numbers on the lower end of the spectrum. Conversely, those who primarily stick to highway driving and practice fuel-efficient techniques may see numbers closer to, or even slightly exceeding, the EPA highway estimate of 26 MPG. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and carrying heavy loads will all negatively impact fuel economy.

How it compares

Compared to other mid-size sedans with available all-wheel drive, the 2019 Fusion AWD 2.7L isn’t a class leader in fuel economy.

For example, the Subaru Legacy with its standard all-wheel-drive system manages around 27 MPG combined, while the Nissan Altima AWD gets roughly 29 MPG combined. Even some small SUVs offer better fuel economy with all-wheel drive. The 2019 Toyota RAV4 AWD achieves around 30 MPG combined.

However, these alternatives often lack the Fusion’s punchy V6 and more engaging driving experience. Ultimately, the Fusion 2.7L AWD buyer is making a conscious decision to sacrifice some fuel economy for added performance and all-weather confidence. View FUSION MPG across all years to see how this stacks up against other Fusion powertrain options.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take it easy on the throttle. The 2.7L EcoBoost engine is responsive, but aggressive acceleration burns fuel quickly. Smooth, gradual acceleration will significantly improve your fuel economy, especially in city driving. Resist the temptation to constantly use the engine’s abundant torque for quick bursts of speed.

Monitor tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure at least once a month and ensure that your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Even a few PSI difference can impact your MPGs.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra weight in your vehicle, whether it’s cargo in the trunk or items in the backseat, forces the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Remove any unnecessary items from your vehicle to reduce weight and improve fuel economy.

Minimize idling. Idling wastes fuel, especially with a larger engine like the 2.7L EcoBoost. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so there’s no need to let the engine idle unnecessarily. Be sure to keep up with scheduled maintenance for the vehicle, as a well-tuned engine will be more efficient.

Plan your routes efficiently. Avoid stop-and-go traffic whenever possible, as frequent braking and accelerating consume more fuel. Use navigation apps to find the most efficient routes and avoid congested areas. Consider combining errands into a single trip to minimize cold starts, which are less fuel-efficient. Learn more about all Ford fuel economy data.