Ford Fusion Plus Review: Family Supermini With DVD System

The Ford Fusion Plus stands out in the crowded supermini market as a vehicle that prioritizes family practicality without sacrificing driving enjoyment. Launched as a top-spec version of Ford’s popular Fusion, it introduces subtle yet effective upgrades that elevate everyday usability, making it an ideal choice for parents juggling school runs, shopping trips, and weekend getaways.

Design and Exterior Enhancements

At first glance, the Fusion Plus maintains the familiar, boxy silhouette of the standard Fusion model, which contributes to its generous interior space despite compact exterior dimensions. Ford’s designers opted for understated refinements rather than a complete overhaul. Key additions include a polished chrome grille surround that adds a touch of sophistication to the front fascia, durable plastic bodyside mouldings for protection against minor dings in urban environments, and eye-catching 16-inch alloy wheels that improve both aesthetics and handling poise.

One particularly thoughtful feature is the darkened privacy glass, which serves a dual purpose: it enhances the car’s sleek profile while optimizing the in-car entertainment experience by reducing screen glare. This isn’t mere styling—it’s functional design tailored for real-world family use, ensuring rear passengers enjoy clear visuals even in bright sunlight.

Interior Comfort and Innovative Tech

Step inside the Fusion Plus, and you’re greeted by a cabin that punches above its weight in terms of space and quality. The elevated seating position offers excellent visibility, easing maneuvers in tight city streets and making ingress and egress straightforward for all ages. Rear legroom and headroom are surprisingly ample for a supermini, accommodating growing children or adults on longer journeys without complaint.

The star of the interior show is the standard-fit DVD player, a rarity in this class at the time. Mounted on the ceiling with a flip-down screen, it delivers crisp, high-definition images. Two pairs of wireless headphones and a remote control come included, allowing multiple passengers to enjoy content independently. This setup transforms tedious drives into peaceful ones, with no dangling wires to complicate things. Paired with the tinted glass, it creates an immersive viewing environment that’s perfect for keeping young travelers entertained during holidays or commutes.

Practical storage abounds, from under-seat compartments to deep door pockets and a versatile boot area. Materials feel robust, with supportive seats that maintain comfort over distance. While not luxurious, the beige interior options in some models add a warm, inviting ambiance that’s easy to keep clean.

Engine Lineup and Performance

The Fusion Plus offers a trio of engines, each tuned for efficiency and responsiveness in daily driving. Starting with the entry-level 1.4-litre petrol unit, available exclusively with Ford’s innovative Durashift EST semi-automatic gearbox. This setup delivers smooth shifts without the need for a clutch pedal, ideal for stop-start traffic.

Our test focused on the 1.6-litre petrol engine paired with a conventional five-speed manual transmission. It provides lively acceleration, with peppy low-end torque that makes overtaking effortless on motorways or A-roads. Fuel economy hovers around respectable figures for the era, balancing performance with running costs. Topping the range is the 1.4-litre TDCi diesel, promising the best economy for high-mileage drivers, especially those covering long distances.

All Plus models command a £1,200 premium over the base Fusion 3, justified by the added features and refinements.

Driving Dynamics and Road Experience

Behind the wheel, the Fusion Plus impresses with its blend of comfort and agility. The suspension tuning delivers a compliant ride that soaks up urban potholes and motorway undulations alike, while the precise steering encourages confident cornering. It’s stable at speed, with minimal body roll, making it feel more planted than many rivals.

The 1.6-litre variant, in particular, offers engaging performance without feeling overtaxed. The IB5 gearbox shifts crisply, and overall noise levels are well-controlled, contributing to a refined cabin atmosphere. Parking is a breeze thanks to the compact footprint and high driving position, though some note the turning circle could be tighter.

For families, the real win is the serene environment created by the entertainment system. Long trips become less stressful, with children absorbed in their films while parents focus on the road.

Safety and Reliability Insights

Safety features in the Fusion Plus include standard stability control and multiple airbags, providing solid protection. While not laden with modern driver aids, its sturdy build and competent handling contribute to a reassuring drive. Reliability is a strong suit, with the Fusion lineup earning praise for durability across model years.

Common maintenance points include cambelt changes and monitoring for coolant leaks, but well-maintained examples prove robust. Later Fusion models achieved 4.0/5.0 reliability ratings, suggesting the Plus variant shares this pedigree.

Practicality for Everyday Use

• Space Efficiency: Maximizes interior volume with clever packaging.
• Boot Capacity: Adequate for prams, groceries, and holiday luggage.
• Fuel Efficiency: Competitive figures reduce ownership costs.
• Running Costs: Affordable insurance and servicing keep bills low.
• Resale Value: Holds steady due to Ford’s reputation.

Competitor Comparison

In the supermini arena, the Fusion Plus competes with the likes of the Fiat Panda, Volkswagen Fox, and Kia Picanto. It edges ahead with its entertainment tech and driving fun, though some rivals offer sharper styling or lower prices.

Ownership Verdict

The Ford Fusion Plus excels as a multifaceted supermini that delivers where it matters most: family happiness on the move. Its combination of subtle style, innovative features, and enjoyable dynamics makes it a compelling used buy today, especially for budget-conscious parents seeking reliability and fun.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Ford Fusion Plus reliable?

Yes, it inherits the Fusion’s strong reliability, with regular maintenance ensuring longevity.

What engines are available?

Options include 1.4L petrol (auto), 1.6L petrol (manual), and 1.4L diesel.

Does it have a DVD player?

Standard on Plus models, with wireless headphones for rear passengers.

How does it compare to modern superminis?

It offers timeless practicality, though lacks latest tech like touchscreens.

What’s the fuel economy like?

Expect 42-55 mpg depending on engine choice.