Despite spy shots revealing a possible hybrid version and rumors hinting at a more powerful 4-cylinder engine, the 2009 Ford Fusion returns unchanged, but for a few extra features and some tweaks to its front grille and exterior lamps.

The front-wheel-drive midsize family sedan, touted for its interior room, available AWD option, and low price, merges the sporty platform of the Mazda6 with more practical features associated with a family car. Two big safety additions this year include optional stability control for all three trims and standard traction control on the top-line SEL. Though most of its rivals offer stability control as standard equipment, the 2009 Focus continues to earn high crash-test scores (four and five stars), and the available AWD for the SE and SEL trims adds an extra bit of security. ABS brakes, a tire monitor, and dual front-side and side curtain airbags for both rows are also standard.

The 2009 Fusion returns with two engine choices. Standard on the base S and midlevel SE is a 2.3-liter inline four that delivers 160 hp and 156 lb-ft of torque. It comes matched with either a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. Optional on the SE and standard on the SEL is a 3.0-liter V6 that puts out 221 hp and 205 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed automatic is its only transmission. Those seeking more power may wish to wait for the proposed 2.5-liter, 170-hp inline four.

The Fusion continues to lag behind its rivals (Accord, Camry) in fuel economy, rating only 20/28 for the inline four and 18/26 for the V6. A hybrid version, based on Ford's hybrid SUVs, appears to be in the works. Both powerplants feel anemic for a midsize sedan, though its Mazda6 platform does increase its fun factor, with responsive steering and handling. Reviewers feel the addition of a manual transmission for the V6 might increase the sporty feel overall. An optional Sport Package adds a sport suspension, larger 18-inch wheels (16-inch are standard), a deck spoiler, two-tone upholstery, and colored foglights.

Other new features for the 2009 Fusion include standard satellite radio on SE and SEL trims and standard Ambient Lighting for the SEL. This feature offers a choice of seven colored lights to illuminate foot wells. All trims feature full power accessories, remote entry, and cruise control. The SE upgrades to a 6-CD changer, power driver's seat, and wheel-mounted audio controls, while the SEL gets leather trim and the Sync communication/entertainment interface. The interior of the Fusion offers plenty of adult head- and legroom, with comfortable and supportive seats that sit high for good visibility. The instrument layout can be inconvenient for drivers, forcing them to take their eyes off the road for too long. The rear seats split-fold 60/40, along with a fold-flat front passenger seat to accommodate longer objects that cannot fit in the already roomy 15.8-cubic-foot trunk.