After serving up high-performance versions of cars like the Fiesta, Focus, and Mustang, could Ford Performance be turning its attention to the regular old Fusion midsize sedan? New spy photos show a prototype Ford Fusion testing with quad exhaust tips, a visible front-mount intercooler, and enlarged brakes and tires, all of which may out this test car as a Ford Fusion ST.
The Ford Fusion is already due for a refresh for the 2017 model year, which will bring about a visual update that was leaked in a corporate presentation. That could give Ford the opportunity to bring out a high-performance version of the car. Our source says the Ford Fusion ST might use the company’s 2.7-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V-6 engine with around 300 hp. A six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive would help put all that power to the ground.
Given that it is smaller and lighter than Ford’s only other performance sedan, the 365-hp Ford Taurus SHO, the Ford Fusion ST could be a lithe, sporty machine that follows in the footsteps of the Ford SVT Contour. Sold in 1999 and 2000, the SVT Contour was a hopped-up version of Ford’s popular sedan that used a tuned 2.5-liter V-6 engine good for 195-200 hp and 165 lb-ft of torque. Along with upgraded brakes, a sportier suspension, and a 5-speed manual transmission, the SVT Contour was a hot performer.
It remains to be seen whether this Ford Fusion ST prototype will ever make it to production, or if it will remain an engineering exercise for the company’s enthusiasts. We are, of course, hoping for the former.
