2014 Fusion Decision To Be Made (Need Input, slightly long)

[MineralstangGT]

Ok,

So my wife and I have made the choice to wait until the 2014 model year to order our Fusion since it will have two new colors we find more interesting, and we are ok with waiting. Our real issue is the choice of engine/powertrains and what we are going to choose in the SE model we will be building. This car will be my daily commuter (30 miles daily, 35mph average with no highway) and the largest vehicle we will have when kids come around soon. It is replacing a 1991 Ford Escort auto that gets 24-25 mpg. As we saw the 2014 changes, it did not make our decision any easier. I just need peoples thoughts on the benefits and downsides I have come up with and vote if you want to in my poll. I just appreciate the input!

 

1. 1.6L/6 speed manual combo.

PROS: I am a person that likes to DRIVE a car, so it is perfect for human/car interaction with the manual. Plus, I know this combo will yield the best mpg in my situation and I feel it would still be good enough in Denver for power. I have missed a manual transmission as every one of my cars I have owned was a manual, so its a little throwback which is sentimental. This will also be the last vehicle that I bet I will be able to get a stick in. Once the family gets bigger, etc it will be all CUV and SUV from here on.

CONS: It is only in 2014 with the manual transmission (rumored) and I bet it will be cancelled in 2015. I would have a rare car (pretty cool), but that also means hardly anyone else has it, so that could be bad for parts, etc. Plus no matter how hard I try, I like to modify my cars and the aftermarket potential may have died with the 1.6L being squeezed out. Its just a small club which is good and bad.

 

2. 2.0L/Auto combo

PROS: More power which is always good here in Denver and I always like more power. Less work in the daily commute. I like the dual exhaust and I already know there are aftermarket parts for the motor and exhaust which would be fun someday. This engine is still going to be around until the new Ecoboosts come out in the car, but it will probably have a longer lifespan in the Fusion.

CONS: Its thirstier in in the city, especially when I won't be getting over 40 mph. It has less driving interaction, but the handling and feel of the car overall may make up for it.

 

Any input would be awesome. I am open to all comments, etc.

[jeff_h]

You mentioned 30-mile daily commute, what type of traffic? Years ago I absolutely wanted a manual transmission in my small pickup and did so, then learned again and again in DC stop-n-go traffic that pushing in that clutch and re-engaging every 50 feet got really old. So my input is that if your daily drive involves stop-n-go then do with the automatic, but if not then go for the manual.

[Toz]

You mentioned 30-mile daily commute, what type of traffic? Years ago I absolutely wanted a manual transmission in my small pickup and did so, then learned again and again in DC stop-n-go traffic that pushing in that clutch and re-engaging every 50 feet got really old. So my input is that if your daily drive involves stop-n-go then do with the automatic, but if not then go for the manual.

That's funny, living in DC is what drove me AWAY from having a manual. Now that I live in the boonies again, I would like to have another Manual. If I didn't want the high mileage of the Hybrid I would have gone for the Manual.

[2b2]

imho

the 2.0 will be switching to gen2 architecture anyway

 

dunno if it will be more of a change than adding in-head exhaust-plumbing

and

"a computer-controlled clutch on the belt-drive water pump, which further improves efficiencies by reducing warm-up time. A water-cooled charge air cooler is added to offer a more efficient feed of air into the engine."

( http://media.ford.com/article_display.cfm?article_id=37931 )

[MineralstangGT]

imho the 2.0 will be switching to gen2 architecture anyway dunno if it will be more of a change than adding in-head exhaust-plumbing and "a computer-controlled clutch on the belt-drive water pump, which further improves efficiencies by reducing warm-up time. A water-cooled charge air cooler is added to offer a more efficient feed of air into the engine." ( http://media.ford.com/article_display.cfm?article_id=37931 )

 

Yeah, I wonder if the 2.0L will also have a limited run until 2015 when the 2nd gen will come out. Who knows. Should I be worried to own a car with a motor in it for only two model years and built in such limited quantities as the 1.6L manual?

[akirby]

No worries on parts for any of the engines. Just get the one that you like the best.

[jcg1005]

I feel your pain on the manual. I'd love to have one again. I am saving my pennies for a Mustang Ina few years and that will be my toy with the manual.

 

 

As for your choice, I'd go with your gut. If you think you'll have the car a long time, consider that. I will say that manual transmission has a giant impact on trade in value nowadays. Sad. Too many people can't drive them.

 

Also, don't be surprise if Ford gains another couple MPG on all versions. The mileage wars are really heating up and you may find that the 2.0 can get what your escort was getting, even in your driving environment.

 

 

[HyTi Fusion]

Up till my ordered HyTi Fusion, all my cars have been manual. I figured it may take awhile to sell my 5 speed manual Honda Civic and so started early to sell it. It was up on Craigslist and within 1.5 hrs I sold it before I could even get pictures up! I was honestly amazed.

[jcg1005]

Haha. A manual Civic will always sell in 5 seconds so some kid can tweak the exhaust and put a wing on it and pretend he is in Fast and Furious. Hahaha

[CheesyRider]

I vote for the 1.6 manual. No surprise as that is the one I own. I have yet to see a review where the 1.6 didn't come out on top as the most fun to drive in spite of less power than the 2.0.

 

I wouldn't worry about resale. The most I've ever lost selling a manual compared to an auto is about $1000. Well worth the price. In fact, one car I had sold for more than an equivalent auto would have gone for. I wouldn't be surprised if that would also hold true for the Fusion. Since it is so rare, people may seek them out.

 

I don't think parts availability in the future is going to be a problem. Even though it looks like the engine may have a short run, they've made a lot of them. I seem to remember reading that the same manual transmission is used in the Focus and other makes including Mini. Plus, other than a slight chance on needing a new clutch at some point, it is unlikely you'll ever need to do any manual transmission repairs.

 

The mileage difference may be larger that EPA numbers indicate. It seems everyone with a manual is happy with their mileage, but a lot of 2.0 owners complain.

 

If you can't get over the power difference, you could consider other cars with more power and a manual. Maybe a new or used Regal, ATS, or CTS?

Edited April 14, 2013 by CheesyRider

[MineralstangGT]

Thanks everybody for your input. I was wondering how tall the people who have the manual transmission are? I just wish i could test drive one, but know thats impossible. i am 6'1", but think have longer legs in general. We rented a 2013 for a recent long road trip, and i was able to get really comfortable with my distance from the pedals with the auto. Im worried that i will need to move the seat forward to have the ability to depress the clutch all the way, which makes the angle of my right foot on the gas/brake not very comfortable.

[CheesyRider]

Thanks everybody for your input. I was wondering how tall the people who have the manual transmission are? I just wish i could test drive one, but know thats impossible. i am 6'1", but think have longer legs in general. We rented a 2013 for a recent long road trip, and i was able to get really comfortable with my distance from the pedals with the auto. Im worried that i will need to move the seat forward to have the ability to depress the clutch all the way, which makes the angle of my right foot on the gas/brake not very comfortable.

 

I'm 5'11" and find the distance from the pedals to be quite good. I understand your concern. The current generation Subaru Outback/Legacy was quite comfortable for me with the auto trans, but the manual version was not due to how far forward the seat needs to go in order to push the clutch pedal all the way in.

[MineralstangGT]

I'm 5'11" and find the distance from the pedals to be quite good. I understand your concern. The current generation Subaru Outback/Legacy was quite comfortable for me with the auto trans, but the manual version was not due to how far forward the seat needs to go in order to push the clutch pedal all the way in.

 

That's exactly what I'm afraid of, and it seems to be pretty common for me when I drive vehicles. I'm just going to have to weigh my options I guess. If I get the manual and it has that problem though, it would be a big issue. Hmm. I wish they had pedals that could be adjusted for the gas and brake while leaving the clutch the same.

[milleron]

I had a manual on my '65 Mustang. That's right, the original. I never had another manual and never missed the damned things for a second. I just cannot understand the allure, especially when modern automatic trannies get the same mileage.

But if you see your youth slipping away with babies on the horizon, by all means get the manual. It'll be a quarter of a century before you get another chance, and who knows? By that time, they may be available only in Yugos and motorcycles.

[kpeex]

I have never driven a car with an automatic that I was not convinced would be a better car with a manual.

 

I have never not wanted a manual on any car I have rented. (I rent a lot.)

 

I've never driven a shiftable automatic that comes close to a stick.

 

I have never wanted an automatic.

 

I have never owned an automatic.

 

I've never regretted the slight hit I take when I sell a stick. Probably save it in reliability.

 

I smile and secretly thank Ford for making a manual available on the Fusion and making it available in trim options that are anything but stripper. The car is fun to drive, the clutch is right, and sixth gear is for cruising. The car is very quiet, but not so quiet as to not hear the shift points. You can drive it easy or you can make it vroom, vroom. Go for it!

Edited April 15, 2013 by kpeex

[kpeex]

Im worried that i will need to move the seat forward to have the ability to depress the clutch all the way, which makes the angle of my right foot on the gas/brake not very comfortable.

 

I'm 5'11" and there's plenty of seat track ahead of me and behind me. I have the telescoping wheel all of the way out. I make great use of the dead pedal on the left. Makes a big difference.

[MineralstangGT]

I'm 5'11" and find the distance from the pedals to be quite good. I understand your concern. The current generation Subaru Outback/Legacy was quite comfortable for me with the auto trans, but the manual version was not due to how far forward the seat needs to go in order to push the clutch pedal all the way in.

 

Thanks Cheesy, I've always appreciated your information on the board since you have the manual. You're right outside of Minneapolis right?

 

I have never driven a car with an automatic that I was not convinced would be a better car with a manual.

 

I have never not wanted a manual on any car I have rented. (I rent a lot.)

 

I've never driven a shiftable automatic that comes close to a stick.

 

I have never wanted an automatic.

 

I have never owned an automatic.

 

I've never regretted the slight hit I take when I sell a stick. Probably save it in reliability.

 

I smile and secretly thank Ford for making a manual available on the Fusion and making it available in trim options that are anything but stripper. The car is fun to drive, the clutch is right, and sixth gear is for cruising. The car is very quiet, but not so quiet as to not hear the shift points. You can drive it easy or you can make it vroom, vroom. Go for it!

 

Thanks kpeex. I also appreciate the help. Where are you located?

[CheesyRider]

Thanks Cheesy, I've always appreciated your information on the board since you have the manual. You're right outside of Minneapolis right?

 

Glad I've been helpful. Yep, White Bear Lake is a Twin Cities suburb. I'm only about 1000 miles from Denver if you'd like to stop by and check out my car!

[MKII]

Found one for you, its just down the road a piece from you

http://www.portsmouthford.com/new/Ford/2013-Ford-Fusion-8ae258090a0a00de01f4c81c3d6570a3.htm

 

 

• Year:2013
• Make:Ford
• Model:Fusion
• Trim:SE
• Bodystyle:Sedan
• Doors:4 door
• Engine:1.6L I-4 cyl
• Transmission:6-Speed Manual
• Drive Line:FWD
• Fuel Type:regular unleaded
• Exterior Color:Ruby Red Tinted
• Interior Color:Charcoal Black Leather
• VIN:3FA6P0HR9DR187193

Edited April 15, 2013 by MKII

[MineralstangGT]

Glad I've been helpful. Yep, White Bear Lake is a Twin Cities suburb. I'm only about 1000 miles from Denver if you'd like to stop by and check out my car!

Hey, a flight or drive to MN is cheaper than buying a car I would be uncomfortable driving! I may be crazy enough to take you up on that!

 

Found one for you, its just down the road a piece from you

http://www.portsmouthford.com/new/Ford/2013-Ford-Fusion-8ae258090a0a00de01f4c81c3d6570a3.htm

 

 

• Year:2013

• Make:Ford

• Model:Fusion

• Trim:SE

• Bodystyle:Sedan

• Doors:4 door

• Engine:1.6L I-4 cyl

• Transmission:6-Speed Manual

• Drive Line:FWD

• Fuel Type:regular unleaded

• Exterior Color:Ruby Red Tinted

• Interior Color:Charcoal Black Leather

• VIN:3FA6P0HR9DR187193

Man, just a nice 2000 mile cruise!

[sweez]

Hey, a flight or drive to MN is cheaper than buying a car I would be uncomfortable driving! I may be crazy enough to take you up on that!

 

 

Man, just a nice 2000 mile cruise!

That's too funny. That is THE car I test drove and then ordered one promptly. Wasn't crazy about the ruby red and radar options on that one. I ordered a ginger ale with the dune interior and black wheels. Thought it would look sharp. Unfortunately Ford "balanced out" the color right after I ordered so I had to change to sterling grey with black leather. kept wheels. I LOVE it and the mileage is great. I think it has enough power though it would be more fun with a bigger motor.

[CheesyRider]

Hey, a flight or drive to MN is cheaper than buying a car I would be uncomfortable driving! I may be crazy enough to take you up on that!

 

 

Man, just a nice 2000 mile cruise!

 

Or, just do what I did. Order one and test drive it when it comes in. I was under no obligation to buy and would have gotten my deposit back if I didn't like it. Another option is to keep your eye on Cars.com. Unfortunately, right now, the closest one with a photo to confirm it is indeed a manual is nearly 900 miles away from you. But, if you prefer, feel free to swing by. I love visitors!

 

That's too funny. That is THE car I test drove and then ordered one promptly. Wasn't crazy about the ruby red and radar options on that one. I ordered a ginger ale with the dune interior and black wheels. Thought it would look sharp. Unfortunately Ford "balanced out" the color right after I ordered so I had to change to sterling grey with black leather. kept wheels. I LOVE it and the mileage is great. I think it has enough power though it would be more fun with a bigger motor.

 

I think you dodged a bullet with that one. I saw a sterling grey with black wheels when I was getting my oil changed at the dealer. It looked awesome!

[MineralstangGT]

Or, just do what I did. Order one and test drive it when it comes in. I was under no obligation to buy and would have gotten my deposit back if I didn't like it. Another option is to keep your eye on Cars.com. Unfortunately, right now, the closest one with a photo to confirm it is indeed a manual is nearly 900 miles away from you. But, if you prefer, feel free to swing by. I love visitors!

Very true Im just not sure i want to wait 6-8 weeks on the car, and for reason if it doesnt work for me, have to wait another 6-8 weeks for a 2.0L. I want to order my car no matter what, just a thing i want to do, so i have to think that is a possibility that i would have to wait that long.