Ford boosting power and efficiency of 2009 Fusion sedan

With growing consumer awareness about carbon emissions and fuel economy, Ford is updating the engine on its midsize Fusion sedan to have both increased fuel economy as well as more power for its 2009 model year debut. The hike in both power and mileage will be achieved using variable valve timing technology combined with a new six speed automatic gearbox. Ford revealed to Las Vegas dealers last week that it hopes the new engine will help the Fusion achieve best-in-class fuel economy this year.

While Ford spokesman Jim Cain refused to confirm the new engine, the idea is already being lauded by industry analysts. "I think it's going to be a great engine," IRN Inc automotive analyst Erich Merkle told the Detroit Free Press. “It couldn’t come at a better time.”

With fuel approaching the $4 per gallon mark in the U.S., fuel prices are having a much bigger impact on purchasing behavior than previous years. Already we’ve seen four-cylinder vehicles outsell V6 and V8 models for the first time in the U.S. and sales of sales of big SUVs and pickups start to dwindle.

The new engine is the same 170hp 2.5L four-cylinder unit as revealed in the 2009 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner, which debuted at last month’s New York Auto Show. The 2009 Fusion (2008 model pictured) will feature a redesigned front end as well as interior changes, and will be available in a hybrid version.

2009 Mercury Mariner and Ford Escape