2012 Ford Fusion: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 13, 2026
The 2012 Ford Fusion was mostly a carryover, with the SE’s standard 6-speed automatic and 17-inch aluminum wheels as the main change. Small suspension and sealing revisions also improved ride comfort and reduced cabin noise.
About the 2012 Ford Fusion
1st gen (2006-2012), third year after the 2010 refresh and final year before the all-new 2013 redesign.
Ford positioned the Fusion as a midsize sedan that blended family-car space and comfort with more engaging road manners than many rivals. In 2012 that meant a roomy cabin, solid feature content, strong four-cylinder fuel economy, optional V6 power, optional AWD on some gas trims, and a hybrid that still felt familiar to drive. For most used-car shoppers, the Fusion’s identity is simple: it is a practical sedan that does not feel dull, with trims ranging from basic commuter to comfort upgrade, V6 sport sedan, and fuel-saving hybrid.
The 2012 Fusion ranged from the straightforward S and well-equipped SE to the leather-lined SEL. The Sport paired a 3.5-liter V6 with firmer suspension tuning, while the Hybrid focused on fuel savings with an efficiency-coaching display and regenerative braking.
What changed, by category
2012 Ford Fusion specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / V6, Flex Fuel, 3.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / V6, Flex Fuel, 3.0 Liter | V6, 3.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 2.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd / Automatic, 6-Spd w/SelectShift | Automatic, 6-Spd / Automatic, 6-Spd w/SelectShift | Automatic, 6-Spd w/SelectShift | Automatic, CVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Gas | Hybrid |
| MPG City | 23 mpg | 20–23 mpg | 20–23 mpg | 18 mpg | 41 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 33 mpg | 28–33 mpg | 28–33 mpg | 27 mpg | 36 mpg |
| Horsepower | 175 hp | 175–240 hp | 175–240 hp | 263 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | 172 lb-ft | 172–223 lb-ft | 172–223 lb-ft | 249 lb-ft | 136 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 16.5 cu-ft | 16.5 cu-ft | 16.5 cu-ft | 16.5 cu-ft | 11.8 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37.1 in | 37.1 in | 37.1 in | 37.1 in | 36.7 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||||
| Automatic Headlights | |||||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | |||||
| Rear Parking Sensors | |||||
| Rear View Camera | |||||
| Alloy Wheels | |||||
| Fog Lights | |||||
| Heated Mirrors | |||||
| Power Moonroof | |||||
| Rear Spoiler | |||||
| Built-In Hard Drive | |||||
| Navigation System | |||||
| Premium Audio | |||||
| Satellite Radio | |||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||||
| Folding Rear Seat | |||||
| Heated Front Seats | |||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | |||||
| Leather Seats | |||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||||
| Power Driver Seat | |||||
| Remote Start | |||||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2012 Ford Fusion a major update?
No. The 2012 Fusion was largely a carryover and the final model year of the first generation. Its main updates were added standard equipment for the SE and small ride and noise refinements.
What changed on the 2012 Ford Fusion SE?
The 2012 Fusion SE gained a standard 6-speed automatic transmission and 17-inch aluminum wheels. These were the clearest trim-level changes for the year.
Did the 2012 Ford Fusion get new engines?
No. The 2012 Fusion did not receive a lineup-wide engine change. The notable powertrain update was that the SE’s 6-speed automatic became standard equipment.
Was the 2012 Ford Fusion quieter than the 2011 model?
Yes, slightly. Revised front dampers and small sealing and mirror tweaks were intended to reduce cabin noise and make the ride feel more polished.
Is the 2012 Ford Fusion the redesigned model?
No. The 2012 Fusion was the last model year of the first generation after its 2010 refresh. The all-new redesign arrived for 2013.