Fun to look at is another strong Ford Fusion characteristic. Taking its cues from the Ford 427 concept vehicle of 2003, the 2006 Fusion embodies Ford's new corporate look; the most obvious element is the three-bar grille that will be added to all blue-oval-badged sedans within a couple of years. Fusion's headlights wrap up into the hood, tapering to a sharp angle similar to the Mercury Mountaineer. Tidy flanks, an elegantly arched roofline, handsome 17-inch alloy wheels, chrome accents, and upscale triangular taillights give the Fusion a clean, cohesive look.

Inside, symmetry rules. Stylistically, the theme follows the larger Ford Five Hundred sedan, with organized controls, flush surfaces, close panel fits, and simple design. The Fusion possesses a clean, refreshing interior loaded with soft-touch surfaces and materials that, for the most part, exude quality. Ford offers distinctive "themed" cabin treatments, including one inspired by the Ford 427 show car that blends charcoal-black leather upholstery with oatmeal-colored stitching and piano black interior trim.