It’s a well-known fact that the midsize sedan market has been in an extended slowdown, with many buyers choosing new-fangled crossovers over what was for decades an industry standard. But that doesn’t mean automakers have completely given up on the segment; especially Ford, which introduced the 325 horsepower Fusion Sport earlier this year.
So it comes as no surprise that the Blue Oval is trotting out a pair of performance-specced Fusion Sports for the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada. One of the sedans was built for cruising, and the other for crushing the midsize competition. Which would you rather have in your fleet?
The 2017 Ford Fusion Sport “Ballistic” (pictured above) concept turns this attractive commuter into a legitimate luxury sport sedan. A JMS PedalMAX system makes the most of the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine’s powerband, with SCT Performance providing the engine calibration and MRT Performance adding an axle-back exhaust.
The suspension has been upgraded for grand touring by H&R Performance, and a Rotora forged aluminum brake kit brings six-piston, 15-inch front brakes and four-piston 13.8-inch rear brakes to the party. Kevlar front spoiler and side splitters are paired with a heat extracting hood and a Katzkin custom leather and suede and interior.
Those seeking more “sport” from the Fusion Sport might prefer the second offering, built by Legacy Innovations. Taking the base all-wheel drive, turbocharged sedan, Legacy added a MagnaFlow exhaust and K&N cold air kit to help the “Nano” V6 breath better. The chassis benefits from a BC coilover suspension and Baer brakes, while Legacy Innovations provided the carbon fiber skirt lips and hood.
Simple, to the point, and plenty effect. We’ll keep an eye out for both on the SEMA show floor this year.