Ford today announced that the all-new 2006 Fusion mid-size sedan -- the latest salvo in the company's plan to recapture car market share -- will undercut the competition with a starting price of $17,995. Fusion models equipped with a V-6 and class-leading 6-speed automatic transmission begin at $21,275. All prices include destination and delivery charges.

Photo: http://www.fordvehicles.com/assets/images/2006fusion/photo_gallery_large_1.jpg

From the affordable I-4 'S' model to a top-of-the-line V-6 'SEL', Fusion provides extensive consumer choice in the mid-size segment. The most affordable Ford Fusion is the I-4 equipped 'S' model, which has a base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $17,995.

Major standard equipment includes:

* 2.3-liter Duratec 23 I-4, producing 160 horsepower and mated to a smooth-shifting 5-speed manual transmission

* Signature 3-bar chrome grille with integrated "Ford" oval

* Four wheel power assisted disc brakes and 16-inch wheels with all- season Continental "ContiProContact" tires

* AM/FM stereo with single CD/MP3 player with four speakers

* Power door locks with remote keyless entry and power windows with driver's door one-touch down function

* Five-passenger seating with rear 60/40 spring-assisted fold-down seats

* Air conditioning, speed control and tilt and telescoping steering wheel

* Enhanced side impact intrusion protection system and Ford's exclusive Personal Safety System(TM) featuring occupant classification for first-row passengers

A top-of-the-line Fusion SEL adds fog lamps, 17-inch aluminum wheels on Michelin "Pilot HIX MXM4" tires, automatic temperature control, premium six- CD/MP3 6-speaker stereo, upgraded wood or piano black interior trim and a leather wrapped steering wheel with redundant audio and climate controls. With the optional 5-speed automatic transmission, it will be priced under $20,500.

Customers wishing for more power can upgrade to the optional 221- horsepower, 3.0-liter Duratec 30 V-6 and class-leading 6-speed automatic transmission starting at $21,275 for the Fusion SE model.

Fusion's three trim levels, two powertrain choices, three wheel and tire packages and four distinct audio systems -- including a host of other available features and options -- allow for owners to customize the vehicle to their personal tastes. In particular, Ford made sure that customers could specify both the I-4 and V-6 versions of the car with the same slate of available options -- realizing that engine choice should not dictate how richly optioned a car can be.

Available options on the 'S' model of Fusion include a 5-speed automatic transmission, Safety and Security package (incorporating seat-mounted side air bags, first- and second-row side air curtains and an anti-theft perimeter alarm) and four-wheel anti-lock brakes.

Fusion SE models add the availability of 16-inch machined aluminum wheels, premium 6-speaker six-CD/MP3 stereo or an upgraded Audiophile, 8-speaker six- CD/MP3 stereo, leather seating surfaces with contrasting stitching and a power moonroof. Traction assist is also available on V-6 versions of the Fusion SE.

Those opting for the top-of-the-line Fusion SEL have the additional choice of heated leather seating surfaces and a Premium Package (incorporating heated outside mirrors with puddle lamps, automatic dimming rear view mirror, compass and automatic headlamps.)

Mid-Size Competitive Comparison

The new 2006 Ford Fusion will be one of the most competitively priced cars in the mid-size sedan segment, both in I-4 and V-6 versions. A comparison of Fusion's mid-size sedan competitors shows:

                                                  I-4 Manual        V-6 Automatic
    2006 Ford Fusion                 $17,995            $21,275
    2006 Hyundai Sonata          $18,495            $21,495
    2005 Honda Accord             $18,510             $24,465
    2005 Chevrolet Malibu         $19,825            $21,890
    2005 Toyota Camry              $19,735            $23,070
    2005 Nissan Altima             $19,880            $23,880