Overview

With sedan sales plummeting and SUV purchases skyrocketing, Ford looks to synthesize those two vehicle segments by slapping its popular Fusion nameplate on an all-new crossover-like station wagon. Although there aren't a lot of details about Ford's forthcoming model, it's expected to target the Subaru Outback and Buick Regal TourX. That means the Fusion Active should have all-wheel drive, plastic body cladding, and a raised ride height. There are also rumors that a hybrid and plug-in-hybrid powertrain will be offered. We won't have the full picture until Ford decides to spill the beans, but here's what we know so far about the 2021 Fusion Active.

What's New for 2021?

As the Ford Fusion sedan approaches the end of its life, the company is expected to replace the recognizable nameplate with lifted station wagon. While we expect it to be called the Fusion Active, we won't know until Ford releases more details apart from the report and spy photos we've seen up until now.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

We can only guess the starting price of the Fusion Active. It would make sense that it costs about the same as the Outback and the Regal TourX, which currently begin between about $28,000 and $30,000, respectively. Although we don't have any idea what trim levels will fill out the lineup, we think it'll align with other Ford models.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Without any official details about the engine and transmission options that will be available on the Fusion Active, we can only speculate on the possibilities. One thing we can almost guarantee is that all-wheel drive will be offered. There have also been rumors that Ford will offer a hybrid and plug-in-hybrid powertrain on the wagon. Those two electrified setups could be the same or similar to the ones that power the compact Escape crossover. That means a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that pairs with two electric motors. The Fusion Active could also inherit the Escape's gas-only 250-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and eight-speed automatic transmission. We won't know anything about the wagon's performance or how it drives until we can get behind the wheel.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Since we don't have any information on which powertrains will be available on the Fusion Active, we have nothing to report on its fuel-economy ratings. We'll update this section once its EPA estimates are released, and we'll eventually put those figures to the test on our real-world highway route.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The Fusion Active's interior design, passenger space, and cargo volume are a total mystery. We expect the styling to mirror newer Ford products such as the all-electric Mustang Mach-E crossover and the mid-size Explorer SUV. Those models suggest a fully digital gauge cluster, a vertically oriented center screen, and versatile interior cubby storage. We also expect the Fusion Active to provide a comfortable back seat and generous cargo space to compete with the Outback and Regal TourX.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The latest version of Ford's Sync infotainment system should be included on the upcoming Fusion Active. We expect a touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to be standard or optional. Likewise, built-in navigation and a Wi-Fi hotspot will likely be on the roster of options. Ford usually offers an upgraded audio system, too.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 2021 Fusion a hasn't been crash tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). While Ford hasn't said what driver-assistance technology will be offered on the station wagon, we expect features such as automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist to be included.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Ford provides a competitive warranty that aligns with most other automakers. However, it doesn't provide any complimentary maintenance.