Ford Fusion Sport 2.7L EcoBoost Buyer's Guide

Written by Curtis Castiglione

To the average commuter, the Ford Fusion is the quintessential background vehicle. It is the car you see idling in rental-fleet beige at airport terminals or blending seamlessly into a suburban bank parking lot. However, that anonymity is precisely why the 2017–2019 Ford Fusion Sport stands as one of the most effective undercover performance sedans ever mass-produced.

Choosing the right performance sedan matters because most drivers want a vehicle that balances daily usability with the power to handle highway merges and weekend drives with ease. The Fusion Sport offers a high-performance experience without the high-performance price tag—or the unwanted attention from law enforcement and enthusiasts alike.

Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Ford Fusion Sport

When shopping for a used Fusion Sport, you need to look beyond the standard midsize sedan checklist. This is a specialized machine with components that differ significantly from the base models.

1. Engine Architecture and Durability

The heart of this 'sleeper' is a 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged V6 EcoBoost. Unlike standard aluminum engines, this block is constructed from Compacted Graphite Iron (CGI). This is the same rugged metallurgy used in Ford’s Super Duty diesel trucks, designed to withstand massive cylinder pressures. While the engine is robust, buyers should listen for top-end noise during a cold start, which can indicate rare valve-guide wear in early 2017 models.

2. All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and the PTU

The Fusion Sport comes standard with an AWD system to manage its staggering 380 lb-ft of torque. When inspecting a vehicle, ask for service records regarding the Power Transfer Unit (PTU). In high-performance Fords, the PTU fluid can degrade over time due to heat. A well-maintained PTU is the difference between a long-lasting drivetrain and a costly repair.

3. Adaptive Suspension and Pothole Mitigation

One of the Sport’s standout features is its continuously controlled damping. It features a unique pothole mitigation system that detects the edge of a pothole and stiffens the shock absorber instantly to prevent the wheel from dropping too deep. During your test drive, the suspension should feel firm and planted, never bouncy or loose.

4. Maintenance History: The Plastic Pan Issue

Early 2017 models were known for oil seepage because they utilized a plastic oil pan with RTV sealant rather than a traditional gasket. Look for oil spots under the car or residue around the bottom of the engine. Most were fixed under warranty, but it remains a vital check for any high-mileage example.

Top Model Recommendations

While the Fusion Sport was only produced for three years, there are slight differences to consider based on your budget and goals.

Best Overall: 2019 Ford Fusion Sport

The 2019 model was the final year of production and benefited from all the lessons learned during the previous two years. It features the most up-to-date Sync 3 infotainment software and generally has fewer reports of the early-build oil pan issues.

• Pros: Most refined build quality; updated exterior styling; standard Co-Pilot360 driver-assist features.
• Cons: Highest resale price on the used market; shorter remaining factory warranty.

Best Value: 2017–2018 Ford Fusion Sport

If you want the most horsepower per dollar, these years are the sweet spot. You get the exact same 325 hp engine as the newer models but at a significant discount due to depreciation.

• Pros: Lowest entry price for 300+ horsepower; identical performance specs to the 2019; high availability.
• Cons: Higher likelihood of the plastic oil pan leak; very early 2017 builds may require hardware updates for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Best for Enthusiasts: High-Mileage 2017 (The Project Base)

The 2.7L EcoBoost responds incredibly well to aftermarket tuning. Enthusiasts often look for well-documented 2017 models to use as a project car. With a simple software tune and an upgraded intercooler, these cars can easily push toward 400 horsepower.

• Pros: Massive performance potential; AWD handles power upgrades better than front-wheel-drive rivals.
• Cons: Modifications will void warranties; increased wear on the 6-speed transmission.

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros

• Exceptional Sleeper Status: Blends into traffic effortlessly.
• Massive Torque: 380 lb-ft provides immediate passing power.
• Standard AWD: Excellent all-weather traction and 'dig' launches.
• Comfort: Quiet cabin and adaptive dampers make it a great GT cruiser.

Cons

• Fuel Economy: Expect 17–20 MPG in combined driving.
• Weight: At 4,100+ lbs, it feels more like a cruiser than a track car.
• Dated Interior: The cabin design is functional but looks older than modern rivals.
• Specialized Maintenance: Specific 2.7L parts are pricier than base Fusion parts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Ford Fusion Sport reliable? Generally, yes. The 2.7L EcoBoost is a truck-grade engine built for durability. The main concerns are the oil pan seepage and the PTU fluid life. If these are addressed, the car can easily cross the 100,000-mile mark.

Does it require premium fuel? To achieve the advertised 325 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque, Ford recommends 93-octane fuel. While it will run on 87-octane regular, the engine computer will pull back timing, resulting in a noticeable drop in performance.

How does it compare to a Honda Accord 2.0T? The Accord is lighter and more fuel-efficient, but it is front-wheel drive, which leads to significant wheel spin under hard acceleration. The Fusion Sport is heavier and thirstier, but it is much faster off the line and more stable in snow or rain thanks to its AWD system.

Final Verdict

The Ford Fusion Sport 2.7L EcoBoost is a rare gem in the used car market. It provides a level of 'under the radar' performance that is increasingly hard to find in an era of flashy, over-styled sports sedans.

It isn't a lightweight track-day weapon, but as a high-speed, comfortable, and discreet daily driver, it is nearly peerless for the price. If you want a car that can outrun most sports cars at a stoplight while looking like you are just on a grocery run, the Fusion Sport is your best bet. Just be sure to check the service records for oil pan and PTU maintenance, and you will own one of the best performance bargains of the last decade.