2013 Ford Fusion Debuts

[MKII]

Just noticed Ford N.A. put the gas cap on the drivers side, is this not something that Americans prefer.

[akirby]

Just noticed Ford N.A. put the gas cap on the drivers side, is this not something that Americans prefer.

 

There is no standard - it varies from vehicle to vehicle even on U.S. only models. It depends on where the engineers decide to position the gas tank and filler neck.

[BigBadBflo]

Just noticed Ford N.A. put the gas cap on the drivers side, is this not something that Americans prefer.

 

My '97 F150, '03 Vibe both had them on the drivers side. My current '08 Legacy has it on the passengers. I'm neither here nor there on the location. I guess the driver's side was a shorter walk....

 

Any one know the history of gas cap locations? I can envision the passenger side location working for the old road side gas pumps from way way way back.

 

Thankfully we have the cheat arrow on the fuel gauge for those intermittent brain freezes

Edited January 10, 2012 by BigBadBflo

[NickF1011]

Can anyone even fathom the number of driving impressions in road tests talking about tiny engines "laboring", "wheezing", and seeming overworked while also less refined?

 

All of the initial reviews I've read on the 2.0 EB in the heavier Edge have lauded its smoothness and complete lack of "laboring" or "wheezing". I doubt we'll hear any such complaints in the Fusion either, except from those wanting it to be an M3.

[NickF1011]

they are using alot of C2 interior bits

 

the headlamp switch, signal stalks, shifter, power door-locks, and most of the behind the scenes electronics are from C2

 

That headlamp switch seems to be the new corporate standard. It looks the same as the one in my Edge also.

[NickF1011]

 

"I bet the complaints about the lack of a V6 will stack this high on BlueOvalForums by noon tomorrow."

[buddysystem]

So I wonder if there will be a fusion wagon here in the US? I suspect the Mondeo estate will look the same in the rear as the 2012 model. The tailights look similar to the new fusion lights. Too close to the Flex, Escape and Exploder? How bout a nice Allroad version?

[PREMiERdrum]

 

"No, ma'am, I said my pianist is this big, he's a midget!"

[BORG]

I know this may sound like a very dumb question, but when does the 2013 Fusion go on sale?

[PREMiERdrum]

I know this may sound like a very dumb question, but when does the 2013 Fusion go on sale?

 

Last time I checked, 2012 order cut off, 2012 order banks opening, and 2013 Job1 were still "TBA" (this was late December). Maybe that will change now that it's unveiled?

[MKII]

Some comments from a Canadian car journalist while covering last years Frankfurt Auto Show , had a test drive in the Mondeo 2.0l EcoBoost

 

`I have absolutely no reservations regarding the 2.0L EcoBoost as employed in the European Mondeo I tested here in Germany — the car performed flawlessly. There is a ton of torque off the line and an urgency in the mid-range I did not expect. Even at the top end, the engine continued to cook away without missing a beat.

As an aside, the Mondeo has a much more buttoned-down feel than the Fusion sold in Canada. The difference proved to be almost as wide as the ocean that separates the two continents. The good news is that the next-generation Mondeo and Fusion will share a common platform and interior (again, the Mondeo’s is much classier than the Fusion’s). Having been treated to a sneak peek of the new car, all I can say is wow! It will turn North American automobile design on its ear!

 

More interesting is that a tweaked version of the 2.0L EcoBoost engine will surface in the Focus ST. It delivers 250 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque. I have sampled it, but that’s all I can reveal for now. Let’s just say it will up the standard in the hot hatch segment by a considerable margin, and not only from a power perspective either.

The one thing all of the EcoBoost engines have in common is the ability for the turbocharger to go into an overboost mode when the driver mats the gas. In the case of the 2.0L engine, it bumps the torque to 265 lb-ft from 250, which explains the acceleration experienced in the Mondeo`

 

 

 

BTW Jost Capito said in an interview when speaking about the 2.0L EcoBoost, he stated that they have bumped the horsepower of the 2.0L well over the 300hp mark with no problems.

So if one really wants to beef up the hp in the 2.0EB go nuts.

Edited January 10, 2012 by MKII

[Biker16]

it reminds me of last years NAIAS when the Civic concept BOwed, and honda hid it in the back of their display, due to the new Focus and elantra.

 

 

http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120110/OEM04/120109807/1115

 

http://www.hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/honda-unveils-2013-accord-coupe-concept

 

 

 

 

01/10/2012 - DETROIT Honda unveiled the dynamic Accord Coupe Concept today at the North American International Auto Show, providing the first official glimpse of the athletic styling direction, as well as revealing a host of new technologies for the all-new, ninth-generation 2013 model, set to go on-sale this fall.

 

The 2013 Accord will feature three all-new powertrains, including the first U.S. application of both a 2.4-liter direct-injected engine and two-motor plug-in hybrid system from Honda's suite of next-generation Earth Dreams™ powertrain technologies. In addition, the V-6 Accord will be the first Honda sedan to feature a new 6-speed automatic transmission. Both the Accord Sedan and the Accord Coupe models are expected to achieve class-leading fuel economy ratings and will be available with a number of innovative new safety and technological features.

 

"Marking the 30th anniversary of U.S. production, this new ninth-generation Accord will raise the bar again through a tour de force of new Honda powertrain and safety technologies, geared to ensure that Honda and the Accord continue to lead in fuel economy, safety and fun-to-drive performance," said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales for American Honda.

 

Design and Packaging

 

The Accord Coupe Concept features an athletic styling direction for Honda's best-selling model. The front bumper's dynamic lines are highlighted by a revised four-sided honeycomb grille and deeply set multi-reflector headlights. Lower fog-light spoilers are accented by crystallized chrome inlays.

 

The Accord Coupe Concept's 20-inch, machine-finished, 5-spoke wheels contribute to its solid stance. The rear taillights aggressively sweep into the body, while a trunk -lid spoiler and large exhaust finishers integrated into the bumper underscore the Accord Coupe Concept's muscular exterior.

 

While the Accord Coupe will remain similarly sized, the Accord Sedan will feature a more compact exterior footprint, adding to its sportier appearance. A shortened length and reduced weight will also give the 2013 Accord Sedan more responsive handling and improved driving dynamics. Both the 2013 Accord Sedan and Accord Coupe will retain the current model's generous cabin space.

Advanced and Efficient Powertrains

 

The Accord will offer three all-new powertrains for the 2013 model year. The Accord Sedan and Accord Coupe will be the first models in the U.S. to receive the new Earth Dreams 2.4-liter, 16-valve DOHC i-VTEC® four-cylinder engine featuring direct- injection (DI). The engine will be paired to a 6-speed manual transmission or a new Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which utilizes an innovative cooperative control system for excellent acceleration and responsive shifting. The all-new 2.4-liter DI engine generates significant performance improvements compared to the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine it replaces, producing more than 181 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. In addition to an overall improvement in fuel economy compared to the 2012 model, the new four-cylinder-equipped 2013 Accord models are targeted to deliver class-leading fuel economy1.

 

The 2013 Accord Sedan and Accord Coupe will also be offered with a re-engineered 3.5-liter, 24-valve, SOHC, i-VTEC V-6 engine, paired to a new 6-speed automatic transmission or an available 6-speed manual transmission. The new V-6 engine generates an increase in horsepower and torque over the current model. The 2013 Accord Sedan and Accord Coupe models equipped with the 6-speed automatic transmission will utilize Honda Variable Cylinder Management ™ (VCM™) technology and are targeted to achieve class-leading fuel economy¹ along with an overall improvement in fuel economy compared to the outgoing model.

 

The 2013 Accord lineup will also feature the first application of a new two-motor plug-in hybrid system to the Accord Sedan. The Honda two-motor hybrid system moves continuously through three modes - all-electric, gasoline-electric and direct-drive - to maximize driving efficiency and fuel economy.

 

In all-electric mode, the 2013 Accord Plug-In Hybrid will use a 6 kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery and a powerful 120 kW electric motor to achieve an all-electric range of approximately 10-15 miles in city driving scenarios and a top speed of 62 mph. Fully recharging the battery will take less than four hours using a 120-volt, outlet and less than 1.5 hours using a 240-volt charger.

 

In the gasoline-electric hybrid mode, the Accord is powered by its fuel-efficient 2.0-liter, i-VTEC inline four-cylinder, Atkinson cycle engine, paired with an electric Continuously Variable Transmission (E-CVT). For more efficient high-speed cruising, the Accord Plug-In Hybrid can engage in a direct-drive mode, in which only the engine drives the front wheels. The Accord Plug-In Hybrid launch next winter.

 

All 2013 Accord models will incorporate the Honda ECO Assist™ system, an innovative technology that can enhance efficient vehicle operation at the touch of a button, while also providing visual feedback to the driver to promote and confirm a more efficient driving style.

 

Safety and Technological Innovations

 

The 2013 Accord will introduce numerous new features for enhanced driver safety, visibility and security. The new Accord will be available with Honda's first application of Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Forward Collision Warning (FCW) technology. Both systems use a camera mounted behind the windshield to alert drivers if the car is moving out of its lane or to warn drivers of a potential collision in front of them.

 

The 2013 Accord is targeted to earn top scores in both the federal government's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety² (IIHS) vehicle evaluations.

 

Additionally, the Accord will be equipped with several new technologies to help improve the driver's visibility around the vehicle. The Accord will be the first model to receive the Honda-exclusive LaneWatch™ blind-spot display, which uses a camera system mounted on the passenger mirror for an enhanced view of the passenger-side roadway. The Accord will also receive a rearview back-up camera and an Expanded View Driver's Mirror as standard equipment.

 

The Accord has always been an exceptional value and the 2013 model will offer more standard equipment compared to the current model, including new advanced technology features. High-tech features that will be found on all 2013 Accord models include Bluetooth®³ HandsFreeLink® phone interface, a full-color intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) and an SMS text messaging function, which can read received texts from compatible cell phones aloud over the audio system. Another standard feature and first for the Accord is the introduction of a Pandora® Internet Radio interface⁴, compatible with the Apple® iPhone®, which works with the vehicle's audio controls and i-MID.

 

Sales, Accolades and Manufacturing History

 

The Honda Accord, currently in its eighth generation, is one of Honda's best-selling vehicles worldwide and remains one of the top-selling automobiles in the U.S. The Accord was launched in 1976 with subsequent major re-designs in 1982, 1986, 1990, 1994, 1998, 2003 and 2008. More than 11 million Accords have been sold in the U.S. since 1976.

 

Since its introduction nearly 36 years ago, the Accord has been honored for its quality, reliability and superior drivability. Car and Driver magazine has awarded the Honda Accord its prestigious and highly competitive annual '10Best Cars' award a record 26 times. No other vehicle in the award's history has been honored as frequently as the Accord. The Accord was also recognized for the highest initial quality in the mid-size sedan segment in the 2011 J.D. Power Initial Quality Survey.

 

In 2012, Honda will celebrate 30 years of Accord production in the U.S. The first Accord Sedan rolled off the Marysville, Ohio assembly line on November 1, 1982 and was the first Japanese-nameplate car assembled in the U.S. Since then, more than eight million Accords have been produced5 at Honda's first U.S. auto plant in Marysville, Ohio. More about Honda in America is available at http://www.hondainamerica.com.

 

[V8-X]

WOW, did Honda get some new vehicle designers? That is actually a very very sharp looking Accord IMO. It seems to have a familiar Accord headlamp/grille setup, but the rest of the car looks much improved. Now I will say I think the headlamps could have been better executed, and those fog lamps are a little over the top, especially with that chrome surround. But overall from at least these two angles, it's an attractive vehicle. I would reserve judgement fully though, as I want to see how big that rear truly is in real life. I kind of liked the last Accord coupe when it debuted, but then when I saw it in person, the a$$ was to big, fat and disproportionate in my opinion.

[NickF1011]

WOW, did Honda get some new vehicle designers? That is actually a very very sharp looking Accord IMO. It seems to have a familiar Accord headlamp/grille setup, but the rest of the car looks much improved. Now I will say I think the headlamps could have been better executed, and those fog lamps are a little over the top, especially with that chrome surround. But overall from at least these two angles, it's an attractive vehicle. I would reserve judgement fully though, as I want to see how big that rear truly is in real life. I kind of liked the last Accord coupe when it debuted, but then when I saw it in person, the a$$ was to big, fat and disproportionate in my opinion.

 

The headlamps and grille area seem to be the part I like the least about the current Accord. This concept certainly doesn't address that. Compared to the new Fusion and Malibu, this leaves me very much underwhelmed.

 

But it has a V6!! :P

[Kris Kolman]

The buzz here at the NAIAS is very positive for the 2013 Fusion. One top analyst at show said this morning that the new Fusion puts a knife into the new Camry. So most of the auto journalists at show from all over the world are gushing over this new Fusion. It certainly is gaining more than its fair share of accolades. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised at all if it ends up being most significant new model introduced at 2012 NAIAS. After all, mid sized car segment pretty much drives most full line auto manufacturers. I don't know that anyone expected all these powertrain options plus a plug-in. As for a Fusion ST, I would expect maybe a 2.5L EB with perhaps 275hp and 0-60 times in the 5's. I doubt if you'll ever see a V6 in a Fusion again.

 

It will be inteersting to see if the D25 is brought into the EcoBoost family with its D16 and D20 family members... Or if Ford goes with a higher spec powered EB20... Something tuned for higher reving and higher horsepower. Somewhat how Volvo did with my S60 with two specs of the same engine... Personally would like to see a EB25 as I think it would be the best option for the Edge to replace the 35V6. This way the Edge could be all 4-cyl as well with the EB20 and EB25.

[BORG]

Last time I checked, 2012 order cut off, 2012 order banks opening, and 2013 Job1 were still "TBA" (this was late December). Maybe that will change now that it's unveiled?

 

So it really is unknown? I've read "Spring" in other publications, but I don't believe it since the MKZ isn't even debuting until Spring.

[Biker16]

It will be inteersting to see if the D25 is brought into the EcoBoost family with its D16 and D20 family members... Or if Ford goes with a higher spec powered EB20... Something tuned for higher reving and higher horsepower. Somewhat how Volvo did with my S60 with two specs of the same engine... Personally would like to see a EB25 as I think it would be the best option for the Edge to replace the 35V6. This way the Edge could be all 4-cyl as well with the EB20 and EB25.

 

the 2.5's stroke is too long. and it's bottom end would not handle boost very well.

[silvrsvt]

WOW, did Honda get some new vehicle designers?

 

It barely changed from the current model....

[atvman]

I hope we see an ST concept some time this auto show season.

[RichardJensen]

I'd say SEMA is a realistic expectation. Performance edition launches seem to lag 18 months or so.

[PREMiERdrum]

So it really is unknown? I've read "Spring" in other publications, but I don't believe it since the MKZ isn't even debuting until Spring.

 

Well, I'm sure it isn't unknown to somebody but as of late December all those dates were unpublished. Considering HAP hasn't scheduled 2012 buildout yet, let alone go down for the changeover, I can't see how Spring is even an option. I've heard Job1 sometime in Q3.

[92merc]

It will be inteersting to see if the D25 is brought into the EcoBoost family with its D16 and D20 family members... Or if Ford goes with a higher spec powered EB20... Something tuned for higher reving and higher horsepower. Somewhat how Volvo did with my S60 with two specs of the same engine... Personally would like to see a EB25 as I think it would be the best option for the Edge to replace the 35V6. This way the Edge could be all 4-cyl as well with the EB20 and EB25.

Rumor is Ford has downsided the 3.5 EB into a 2.7 EB V6. They're finding that works much better than trying to work with the 2.5 inline 4.

[Biker16]

Well, I'm sure it isn't unknown to somebody but as of late December all those dates were unpublished. Considering HAP hasn't scheduled 2012 buildout yet, let alone go down for the changeover, I can't see how Spring is even an option. I've heard Job1 sometime in Q3.

 

ford'com states Fall of 2012

 

so somtime between September 22 and December 21st of this year.

[V8-X]

The headlamps and grille area seem to be the part I like the least about the current Accord. This concept certainly doesn't address that. Compared to the new Fusion and Malibu, this leaves me very much underwhelmed.

 

But it has a V6!! :P

I'm not impressed with the new Maibu from a style aspect. But the Fusion while it's nice, it's just not a hit in my eyes. I'm sure it'll be a great car, just not as appealing as I'd hoped.

 

 

It barely changed from the current model....

Actually on the exterior style, it has changed quite a bit. (see attached images). Yes the overall shape is the same, but... Different front fascia/clip, doesn't look like a Crosstour front clip anymore, and new hood. New sheet-metal and door skins down the side, giving it some hips over the rear tires. All new rear bumper and taillamps. More pronounced tail lip/spoiler. I think the above Accord concept is very attractive. But again, being a concept, I'll reserve final judgement until the actual production version debuts.

Edited January 10, 2012 by V8-X

[FordBuyer]

I hope we see an ST concept some time this auto show season.

 

I'm wondering if Ford would maybe show a hatch or an ST model at one of the upcoming auto shows, be it Chicago or New York. With Fiesta hatch and Focus hatch being very popular and higher ATP's, not sure why Ford wouldn't do a Fusion hatch. Both the Focus and especially the Fiesta look better in hatch form. A Fusion hatch would be very cool and add some more functionality to a very exciting new body. They could maybe build the hatches at AAI when it opens in 2013. Another body style would probably get them to 300,000 sales/year and give Camry sales a run for their money.