The Fusion Energi shares the bloodline of its siblings, the Fusion and the Fusion Hybrid. But the Energi aims to impress on its own merits. As a plug-in hybrid, the Energi means gasoline-free driving for short distances when the car’s 7.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack is fully charged. The EPA’s electric-only driving distance estimate is 21 miles. Re-charge times are 2.5 hours using a 240 volt outlet and 7 hours via a 120-volt outlet. For drivers who want help getting the best fuel economy, a dashboard driving coach (SmartGauge with EcoGuide) provides instantaneous fuel economy read-outs and other information on a 4.2-inch LCD screen.

Power is provided by a 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle 4-cylinder (141 horsepower at 6000 rpm/129 pounds-feet of torque at 4000 rpm) and an 88 kW electric motor that equates to a combined system output of 188 horsepower. During a one-week test drive, the Energi’s firm suspension presented confident ride and handling attributes. As a further compliment, the sedan’s rack and pinion with electric power-assisted steering was sharply responsive. The 3,913-pound curb weight Energi has an estimated 100 mpg equivalent combined highway/city rating for electricity +gasoline, and a 43 mpg combined highway/city rating for gasoline only. MSRP of the 112.2- inch wheelbase Fusion Energi SE is $38,700.