The Ford Fusion, specifically the first generation (Mk1) facelift model produced from 2005 to 2012, represented Ford’s entry into the compact hatchback market in Europe. Designed to appeal to a broad customer base, the Fusion offered a practical and affordable alternative to rivals like the Volkswagen Golf and Opel/Vauxhall Astra. The 1.4 TDCi Automatic variant, powered by a small-displacement diesel engine paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, was positioned as the entry-level offering, prioritizing fuel economy and ease of use over outright performance. This model aimed at buyers seeking a comfortable and economical daily driver, particularly in urban environments.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Fusion |
| Generation | Fusion I (facelift 2005) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TDCi (68 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 16.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 16.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 15.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 158 km/h (98.18 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.3 kg/Hp, 61.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm, 144.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 68 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 48.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 1750 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | F6JA, F6JB |
| Engine displacement | 1399 cm3 (85.37 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73.7 mm (2.9 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1105 kg (2436.11 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1640 kg (3615.58 lbs.) |
| Max load | 535 kg (1179.47 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 337 l (11.9 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1175 l (41.49 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Length | 4013 mm (157.99 in.) |
| Width | 1724 mm (67.87 in.) |
| Height | 1543 mm (60.75 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2486 mm (97.87 in.) |
| Front track | 1487 mm (58.54 in.) |
| Rear track | 1445 mm (56.89 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm (6.3 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.3 m (33.79 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Fusion 1.4 TDCi Automatic is the F6JA or F6JB engine, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output, compensating for the relatively small displacement. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The four-speed automatic transmission, while providing convenience, was a relatively dated design even at the time of the Fusion’s facelift. It lacks the efficiency and responsiveness of more modern automatic gearboxes. The transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy rather than spirited acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 TDCi Automatic Fusion offered a decidedly relaxed driving experience. With only 68 horsepower, acceleration was slow, taking approximately 16.6 seconds to reach 62 mph. The automatic transmission further muted performance, often hunting for the correct gear, especially during overtaking maneuvers. However, the engine’s 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque, available from a low 1750 rpm, provided adequate pulling power for everyday driving. The focus was on maximizing fuel efficiency, and in typical urban and highway conditions, the Fusion 1.4 TDCi delivered respectable fuel economy figures of around 53.5 US mpg (combined). Compared to the higher-powered 1.6-liter gasoline or 2.0-liter diesel variants, the 1.4 TDCi Automatic felt significantly less responsive and refined.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 TDCi Automatic typically came with a basic level of equipment. Standard features generally included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an ABS anti-lock braking system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional but somewhat basic design. Optional extras, depending on the market and year, could include air conditioning, alloy wheels, a CD player, and front fog lights. The trim level was generally considered the entry point to the Fusion range, appealing to budget-conscious buyers.
Chassis & Braking
The Fusion’s chassis featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride, but handling was not particularly sporty. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The car’s relatively light weight (1105 kg / 2436 lbs) helped to mitigate the effects of the modest engine power.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fusion 1.4 TDCi Automatic was generally well-received as an economical and practical city car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, but often criticized its lack of performance. Compared to the more powerful Fusion variants, the 1.4 TDCi Automatic offered significantly lower running costs but at the expense of driving enjoyment. The Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TDI offered a similar blend of economy and practicality, but often came at a higher price point. The Opel/Vauxhall Astra 1.3 CDTi was another competitor, offering comparable performance and fuel economy.
Legacy
The Ford Fusion 1.4 TDCi Automatic, while not a performance icon, proved to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The 1.4 TDCi engine, while simple in design, is generally considered robust and capable of high mileage with proper maintenance. In the used car market, these Fusions are often sought after by buyers looking for an affordable and economical runabout. Common issues include wear and tear on the automatic transmission and potential problems with the turbocharger, but these are generally manageable with regular servicing. The Fusion 1.4 TDCi Automatic represents a practical and sensible choice for those prioritizing fuel economy and low running costs over outright performance.
