2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid

The 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid is one of the best midsize hybrids, say reviewers, because of its good looks, impressive build quality, high levels of passenger comfort and excellent fuel economy. Introduced as a new model for the 2010 model year, the Fusion Hybrid garnered high praise from many reviewers and received various accolades. Many reviewers also like the Fusion Hybrid for its ability to look, feel and drive like a typical midsize sedan. The new 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid (Base MSRP: $25,795), however, is more than $2,500 cheaper and reviews indicate that it has all the right moves in terms of style, comfort and efficiency.

No changes for 2011 model year

Because the 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid received no significant changes over last year's car, our full report on the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid (Base MSRP: $27,950) gives a detailed analysis on what expert reviewers think, complete with links to a variety of useful journalistic, government, and other independent sources for reviews and information.

The Fusion Hybrid's powertrain is rated at an EPA-estimated 41 mpg city/36 mpg highway/39 mpg combined, which is the highest among midsize sedans. For comparison, the fuel economy leader among all cars available is the the best-reviewed hybrid car overall, the 2011 Toyota Prius (Base MSRP: $21,650 to $28,790) which gets an EPA-estimated 50 mpg combined.

Safety ratings are very good

The 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid gets very good crash-test ratings from independent and government organizations. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) names the Fusion Hybrid a Top Safety Pick, indicating that it got the highest rating of Good in all crash-test scenarios. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) gives the Fusion Hybrid 4 stars out of 5 for overall crashworthiness -- side crash protection and rollover resistance are given 4 star out of 5 ratings, while frontal crash protection is given 3 stars out of 5.

Standard safety equipment includes front airbags, front-seat side airbags, side curtain airbags, rear parking sensors, traction control and stability control. A blind-spot warning system is optional.

The 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid carries a base MSRP of $28,600.