The 2008 Ford Fusion SEL combines distinctive styling, affordability, and a long list of standard and premium features. Ford's hope is to continue to attract buyers in a competitive marketplace for mid-size sedans, and the automaker appears to be gaining ground as drivers respond in a positive way to vehicles like the Fusion SEL.

Safety features like antilock brakes and a tire pressure monitoring system are now standard on the Fusion SEL, as are more upscale features such as electronic automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with controls for the audio and speed systems, heated exterior mirrors, an upgraded cloth interior, and 17-inch wheels with performance tires. A six-speaker AM/FM stereo system with an in-dash six-disc CD player and an MP3 input jack is also included.

Standard power comes in the form of a  160-horsepower, 2.3-liter inline Duratec four-cyclinder engine, which links to either a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission.

The Fusion SEL is available with either a power moonroof or an upgraded eight-speaker Audiophile AM/FM stereo system. Other options include the Ford Sync communications connectivity system, which enables hands-free access to cell phones and MP3 players (due late in the 2008 model year), and an optional Sport Appearance Package with a number of exterior and interior upgrades.