The Fusion Hybrid could land a job as a math teacher as the lessons taught via the SmartGauge cluster make a driver more mpg astute. If you want to get optimum mileage, information in the customizable LCD screens (flanking the speedometer) provides a real-time account. So if you’re hammering down the accelerator pedal, the current mpg tally will show that. If you’re cruising down a highway and take your foot off the accelerator pedal, you can see what that does to the mpg. The 2010 Fusion Hybrid’s next-generation hybrid propulsion system highlights a new 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine, intake variable cam timing (which aids in providing seamless gas-to-electric/electric-to-gas mode transitions), and a nickel-metal hydride battery pack with 20 percent more power.

Fusion Hybrid is a mileage maverick among midsize sedans. Compare the Fusion Hybrid to its non-hybrid sibling and the mpg numbers are rather astonishing. Non-hybrid Fusion can be powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylidner, a 3.0-liter V6 flex fuel engine, or a 3.5-liter V6. With the 4-cylinder and an automatic transmission, the front wheel drive Fusion nabs estimated mpg of 23 city and 34 highway. Compare that to the Fusion Hybrid (which uses an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission) and the estimated mpg tally is 41 city and 36 highway. Fusion Hybrid features all the standard fare found on the 4-cylinder powered Fusion SEL, plus extras like the SmartGauge, eco-smart cloth seats, and 17-inch/15 spoke wheels. MSRP of Fusion Hybrid is $27,270.