carivo.co
Independent review & score by Carivo
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
|---|---|
| Body Style | Sedan |
| Base Price | $19,778–$24,534 |
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
Our scoring places the 2018 Ford Fusion at 7.2/10 overall, which translates to a Good rating for this sedan. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 7.8/10, while Performance at 6.6/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional sedan — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We score reliability at 7.2/10 — better than most direct rivals, if short of the segment's best. The safety score of 7.8/10 is solid mid-pack territory. If advanced driver aids matter to you, compare standard equipment carefully and verify ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance at 6.6/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. Technology scores 6.8/10 — the infotainment and driver-assist features feel dated against current-generation rivals. This is worth weighing if you prioritize connected features or modern safety tech.
Priced from $19,778–$24,534, 21 MPG, seating 5, the Ford Fusion sits in the budget-friendly tier of the sedan market. The 7.6/10 value score says the pricing is fair rather than generous; cross-shop the segment before signing anything. At 8 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Our take: The 2018 Ford Fusion is a passable sedan but not a standout one. Weaknesses in technology and performance hold it back from being a strong recommendation. It may suit buyers with specific needs it serves well, but we'd encourage comparing at least two or three higher-scored alternatives before deciding.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
The 2018 Ford Fusion ranks #896 of 1310 sedans in the Carivo database — better than 32% of the segment. Its 7.2/10 overall score is 0.3 points below the segment average of 7.5/10. Its $19,778 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $27,664 by about 29%.
Rankings are recalculated as new vehicles and scores are added. See the full Sedan ranking →
Smart-money pick: the 2015 Ford Fusion scores 7.1/10 — within striking distance of the 2018's 7.2 — and starts roughly $2,000 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
| Year | Score | Starting price (MSRP when new) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 7.4/10 | $21,225 | Read review → |
| 2019 | 7.3/10 | $20,502 | Read review → |
| 2018 (this review) | 7.2/10 | $19,778 | |
| 2017 | 7.2/10 | $19,054 | Read review → |
| 2016 | 7.2/10 | $18,331 | Read review → |
| 2015 | 7.1/10 | $17,607 | Read review → |
| 2014 | 6.8/10 | $14,699 | Read review → |
| 2013 | 6.7/10 | $14,070 | Read review → |
| 2012 | 6.8/10 | $13,440 | Read review → |
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
| Steering / steering wheel/handle bar 12/03/2018 · 18V167000 | Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Lincoln MKZ and Ford Fusion vehicles. The steering wheel retaining bolt may loosen allowing the steering wheel to detach while driving. |
|---|---|
| Service brakes, hydraulic / Foundation components / Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings 10/03/2023 · 23V162000 | Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles. The front brake hoses may rupture and leak brake fluid. |
Source: NHTSA recall database, fetched at page build time.
Explore the full lineup of Ford models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.