2017 Ford Fusion storms into Detroit with 325-hp twin-turbo V6

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With styling matched by virtually no other midsize sedan, and lively driving dynamics, the current-generation Ford Fusion is a pretty impressive package. But every car needs an update eventually, and the Fusion is getting one for the new model year.

The 2017 Ford Fusion debuts at the 2016 Detroit Auto Show with updated styling, more tech, and more power under its rakish hood. While not a full redesign, the updates should keep the Fusion competitive for the next few years.

The biggest news is in the powertrain department. The formerly all-four-cylinder lineup gets augmented by a new Fusion V6 Sport model, packing a twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6. This engine produces 325 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque, which is sent to all four wheels. The Sport’s adaptive suspension also features “pothole detection technology” that quickly adjusts the shocks to lessen the force of impacts. V6 Sport models also get sportier styling, including a rear spoiler, dual exhaust outlets, and a black mesh grille. Who said midsize sedans had to be boring?

Ford will likely carry over the array of four-cylinder engines previously offered in the Fusion, and will continue to offer Fusion Hybrid and Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid models as well. Both cars use the same powertrain, with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder assisted by an electric motor and lithium-ion battery pack. The plug-in Energi gets a larger pack than the Fusion Hybrid, which allows for an electric-only range of 19 miles, Ford says.

The 2017 Fusion will also be the first car sold in North America with Ford’s pedestrian detection system, which uses cameras and radar to scan the road ahead and warn the driver of potential collisions. The updated Fusion will also be offered with lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and the latest Sync 3 infotainment system. All models also get a new rotary shift knob, kind of like what you’d typically get on a Jaguar or a Ram truck.

Most of the 2017 Ford Fusion lineup will arrive in showrooms this summer, although the Fusion V6 Sport will follow the other models by a few weeks. Look for more details closer to the launch date.

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