Ford made only a few upgrades to the Fusion midsize sedan for 2008, but many drivers will consider those upgrades significant, especially those who value safety features. Antilock brakes are a standard feature on all 2008 Fusion models, as is a tire-pressure monitoring system, joining other safety features like dual-stage front airbags and side curtain airbags.

Late in the 2008 model year, Ford will make its Ford Sync communications connectivity system available as an option. This system enables hands-free access to cell phones and MP3 players through the car's audio system. Also new for 2008, Ford offers the Fusion with an optional Sport Appearance Package, which includes a black chrome grille, a unique spoiler, color-keyed fog lamps, a sport-tuned suspension, red seat inserts, and red stitching on the seats, steering wheel, and console.

Other options for 2008 include a color-configurable ambient interior lighting system, which enables drivers to customize the color of the lighting in the front and rear footwells.

Ford offers the 2008 Fusion in S, SE, and SEL trim packages, with either a 160-horsepower, 2.3-liter inline-four-cyclinder engine or a 221-horsepower, 3.0-liter V6. The four-cylinder engine links to either a standard five-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic, while the V6 links only to the automatic transmission.

In addition, SE and SEL models of the Fusion can be equipped with an optional all-wheel-drive system, making the Fusion the only vehicle in its class to offer all-wheel drive.