2009 Ford Fusion SEL AWD

It was a bit odd driving the 2009 Ford Fusion on the day that the 2010 Fusion was (partially) revealed at a preview event. We now know that Ford debuted a car without any huge changes at the L.A. auto show in November. And that's all right; there isn't much about this Fusion that needs to be changed.

The driving experience is pretty unremarkable, but that's about par for the mid-size-sedan class. Not tons of power, but I didn't have to worry about passing pokey drivers on my usual twenty miles of rural roads. The six-speed automatic is pretty smooth, although the fuel-economy numbers aren't stellar.

I'm really intrigued by the new Fusion's improved interior. Adding Ford's new eight-inch navigation screen and the much-improved interface should resolve most of the current interior's shortcomings. The additional soft-touch plastics will also be nice. I appreciate the simple layout of the buttons and the controls in this cabin; in that regard, it's much better than a new Honda Accord.

If you're looking for a basic sedan with room for a family, this Fusion is a solid choice. The small enhancements in 2010 should strengthen that position and hopefully not elevate the price too much.

Phil Floraday, Senior Online Editor