Ford did a very smart thing several years ago when it based its mid-size sedans on the dynamic Mazda6 architecture. From my first drive, it was obvious engineers had taken the best traits of the ‘6 and combined them with a roomier cabin and upscale trim that made the Fusion (and similar Mercury Milan, Lincoln MKZ) excellent alternatives to cars like the Honda Accord, Chevy Malibu, and Nissan Altima. Considering the re-style and re-engineering that are coming for 2010, Ford is poised for greater success.

Ford is quite good at contributing relatively minor investments to improve models beyond their means. Much of the new Fusion’s exterior is carry-over, but the bold chrome grille and power dome hood look like they could just as easily come from the 2009 F-150 as a mid-size family car. It does look very good, however. Interior trim is also refined and upgraded.

New for 2010 is a hybrid version – the first gas/electric passenger car for the Blue Oval team. Ford expects the Fusion Hybrid to rate at least 5-MPG better on the highway than the Toyota Camry hybrid, or about 40 MPG. Running with an improved version of the Escape Hybrid’s system, the Fusion hybrid can operate up to 47 mph on pure electricity and allow up to a 700-mile range on city streets.

A new dashboard features a center speedometer with configurable LCD displays on each side to coach drivers on the best ways to conserve fuel and to get vital information about the car’s performance. Said Derrick Kuzak, Ford V.P. for Global Product Development, “With the new Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan hybrids, we are now able to offer even better range of travel on battery power at a greater speed, thanks to a more efficient, seamless transition between the battery-powered motor and gasoline-driven engine. These new hybrids will exceed expectations on all fronts – fuel efficiency, comfort, convenience and overall drivability.”

Ford is genius at evolving vehicles over long periods of time while keeping them current and relevant. Now available with an enhanced hybrid system and cool styling, it is going to be tough competition for the Saturn Aura, Toyota Camry, Chevy Malibu, and Nissan Altima hybrids.