Refreshed 2019 Ford Fusion launches new driver-assist technology

Ford is updating its workhorse Fusion sedan to include the latest in driver-assist technology. The 2019 Ford Fusion will launch what the automaker is calling “Ford Co-Pilot360.” Ford describes the package as “The most advanced suite of standard driver-assist technologies among full-line brands that includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot information system, lane keeping system, rear backup camera and auto high-beam lighting.” The Ford Co-Pilot360 package will be offered standard on all 2019 Ford Fusions globally.

Streamlining the Technology

Corey Holter, Ford’s marketing manager for cars says in a statement, “People tell us they are stressed with crowded roads and more distracted drivers and pedestrians. Our Ford Co-Pilot360 with standard automatic emergency braking and other technologies can help them drive more confidently so they can enjoy the journey.”

Drivers that buy the higher-end Fusion Titanium or Fusion Hybrid will also get more standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control with stop and go, and an advanced navigation system. It seems surprising that Ford is debuting the new package on the Ford Fusion when people are buying more SUVs and Crossovers, but the Fusion is still a popular vehicle for Ford. Ford is using the Fusion as its primary test vehicle for almost all of it autonomous and driver-assist technology testing.

The 2019 Ford Fusion will make its public debut at the 2018 New York Auto Show. The 2019 Ford Fusion will feature updated front and rear styling. The trunk also looks slightly different, and the car has new fog lamps and LED tail lights.

Fusion Facing Strong Competition

The Ford Fusion competes in a tough segment. Nissan is debuting its newly redesigned 2019 Altima, in New York, as well. The perennial top sellers in the midsize segment are the Toyota Camry and the Honda Accord.

A 1.5-liter EcoBoost® engine will now be standard on Fusion SE and higher trim levels. However, a Fusion V6 Sport will also be available with standard all-wheel drive and 380 lb.-ft. of torque. The 325-horsepower Fusion V6 Sport remains the most powerful car in its midsize class.

The 2019 Ford Fusion offers an engine option for virtually everyone. Along with the regular Fusions, there is also a Fusion hybrid with a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder hybrid engine. The automaker is also improving the performance on the Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid. Holter says, “For our green-minded customers, we’ve amped up our Fusion Energi with a projected increase of nearly 20 percent electric-only driving range.”

The 2019 Fusion Energi is projected to offer an EPA-estimated electric-only range of 25 miles, which is nearly 20 percent greater than that of the current model. The new lithium-ion battery has greater capacity but is the same size as the old one.

The redesigned 2019 Ford Fusion should be in dealer showrooms by late summer.