If the 2006 Ford Fusion doesn't sell, then it's clear that Americans are no longer interested in American cars. Of course, Ford could botch the launch with a series of recalls, and consumers haven't got much incentive to consider a car that lacks both an established track record for durability and value retention like the Honda Accord, or a long warranty with free scheduled maintenance such as the Mitsubishi Galant. But based upon our first look, touch, and sniff of the new Fusion, this is the most compelling midsize sedan out of Detroit in a long time.

Ford's new Fusion is the first car out of the chute to ride on the company's new midsize "CD" platform. Based on a modified Mazda 6 foundation and powertrains, the Fusion's underpinnings will also provide the basis for a slew of new FoMoCo products such as the 2006 Mercury Milan, 2006 Lincoln Zephyr, and 2007 Lincoln Aviator. Given that the Mazda 6 is one of the most entertaining sedans on the market, the Fusion should prove fun to drive.