As we saw at the 2016 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, the Ford Fusion mid-size sedan is getting a fresh revamp for the 2017 model year. While that mostly conjures some pretty routine changes – a new front fascia, new Platinum trim level, some other bells and whistles – the most exciting news is that of the new 2017 Ford Fusion V6 Sport.
While the real pi̬ce de r̩sistance is the engine Рa potent 2.7-liter EcoBoost brute capable of pumping out some 325 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque Рthe new 2017 Ford Fusion V6 Sport also features a continuously-controlled damping system that warrants some discussion. Continuously-controlled dampers such as those to be used in the new Fusion Sport sedan use solenoid valves to alter the flow of hydraulic fluid within the damper cylinder. That solenoid valve is controlled by a computer which continuously scans input data to determine when to stiffen or soften the damper.
The overall effect is quite akin to that achieved by magnetorheological shocks, but these dampers are more economical, and don’t suffer from the same latency of charge dissipation from the fluid. Ultimately, this means that the 2017 Ford Fusion V6 Sport ought to deliver composed, controlled cornering with little body roll, and still prove smooth and comfortable over rough pavement.
In addition, Ford has announced that the 2017 Ford Fusion Sport will ship with “pothole detection technology,” which scans the road continuously for sudden dips and divots and alerts the damper controller. The shocks are then adjusted precisely at just the right moment to minimize the impact on vehicle occupants.
The new, AWD 2017 Ford Fusion V6 Sport is set to arrive at dealerships in late summer/early fall, several weeks after the other refreshed models start reaching showrooms.
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