The 2011 Ford Fusion is a versatile mid-size sedan available in four trim levels. The SEL trim strikes a good balance between comfort and performance without busting the bank. But for a tighter budget, the base S is the better option in the used market.
Key Points
- The 2011 Ford Fusion comes in four capable trim levels: S, SE, SEL, and Sport.
- The S offers basic features, while the SE adds amenities like a power-adjustable driver seat and automatic headlamps.
- The SEL and Sport complete the Fusion’s lineup. While the former aims to be the most luxurious offering, the latter focuses on spirited driving.
- All but the S trim gets a bunch of optional packages that add visual mods, parking sensors, cameras, moonroof, and much more.
2011 Fusion S is Basic but Offers Competitive Features Like Cruise Control and Keyless Entry
The 2011 Ford Fusion range kicks off with the base S trim. You get a 2.5L inline-four with 175 horsepower and 172 lb.-ft. of torque paired to either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. The base model comes lightly equipped when it comes to amenities. On offer are rudimentary features like cloth seats with manual controls, four-speaker AM/FM audio system, manual steering adjustment, and air conditioning.
However, features like 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, remote keyless entry, six airbags, and four-wheel disc brakes make it competitive. Other safety features include stability control, traction control, and tire-pressure monitoring. You also get a 60/40 split-folding rear seat and a capless fuel filler as standard across the range.
A used 2011 Fusion S costs an average of around $8,100 per Kelley Blue Book, so it’s fair to say that the midsize sedan offers great value as an A-to-B commuter.
2011 Fusion SE Packs More Convenience Features, Gets an Optional V6
Move up to the SE, and you get a host of visual upgrades and interior options. As standard, you’d find an eight-way powered driver seat, automatic headlamps, steering wheel-mounted controls, and a six-speaker audio s stem. Other highlights include fog lamps and chrome-tipped exhausts.
But the SE one-ups the base S with an available 3.0L V6. The motor puts out 240 horsepower and 223 lb.-ft. of torque, making it extremely attractive. However, unlike the four-cylinder, it can only be mated to the six-speed automatic.
As for optional extras, there is an available Rapid Spec that offers features like a power moonroof, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and Ford’s voice-activated Sync connectivity system. Also available, the Appearance Package includes 18-inch alloys (17-inch standard on the SE), sport-tuned suspension, a rear decklid spoiler, and reverse parking sensors.
Although the price increment for a used Fusion SE is negligible. It only makes sense to buy one if it comes equipped with the optional extras. Also, we’d probably stick with the standard inline-four since it offers better fuel economy.
2011 Fusion SEL Gets the Whole Nine Yards with Available Driver Assistance Tech
Above the SE trim sits the SEL. Like the SE, you get two engine options. However, AWD is brought into the mix, available exclusively on the V6. A six-speed automatic is the sole transmission option on the SEL model, regardless of the engine.
In terms of amenities, the SEL comes loaded with features like 17-inch aluminum alloys, leather-trimmed power-adjustable driver and passenger seats, dual-zone climate control, universal garage door opener, heated seats, and side-view mirrors.
Also, the SEL comes with a Rapid Spec option as well. Features include a backup camera with sensors, a power moonroof, a 12-speaker sound system with built-in navigation, and rain-sensing wipers. A blind-spot information system and rear cross-traffic alert are also part of the optional Rapid Spec.
Other extras are the available Appearance Package (same as the SE) and the Luxury Package. The latter includes chrome door handles and mirror caps, unique interior color combinations along with 17-inch polished aluminum rims, and illuminated front sill plates.
With not much price difference over the SE, you get a well-equipped Fusion SEL. If you can find one with the extras fitted, then that’d be the best pick of the lot.
2011 Fusion Sport Gets a 3.5L V6, Adds More Power and a Ton of Visual Drama
If you want the most powerful Fusion, the Sport is the one to go for. The only available engine is a 263-horsepower 3.5L V6 mated to a six-speed transmission with the option of either FWD or AWD. Much of the Sport trim s features are the same as the SEL. However, what makes it stand out is the sport-tuned suspension and unique seats available with black, blue, or red inserts.
Other highlights include a blacked-out grille, 18-inch wheels, dual chrome-tipped exhausts, side skirts, and a rear spoiler. As for optional features, it’s pretty much the same as the SEL except for the Luxury package. Instead, you get a Comfort Package that includes heated seats, dual-zone climate control, a universal garage door opener, features that are already standard on the SEL.
To be honest, we’d probably skip the Sport trim and stick with the SEL. The latter offers more standard equipment despite being cheaper.
All Trims Have Specific Advantages, but the SEL Offers the Best Value
For someone running a budget, the base S should fit the bill. But it falls short of some key features, which the SE adds at a nominal price premium. However, the best bang for buck model would be the Fusion SEL. The standard four-cylinder is the pick of the bunch, but for an extra $1,000 or so, you can get a low-mileage fully loaded SEL with the V6.
Photos: Ford
