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Top 12 best cars for the money

4. Best mid-size car – Ford Fusion

Courtesy of Ford/File
With a starting price that’s less than many other midsize cars, plus better-than-average long-term ownership costs, the mid-size Ford Fusion combines value with a great ownership experience.

  • By Jamie Page Deaton Contributor

Most midsize cars are known for performance that’s better suited for sitting in traffic than seat-of-your-pants driving. However, reviewers say that the 2012 Ford Fusion is one of the rare mid-size cars that’s actually fun to drive. An IIHS top safety pick, the Fusion can not only help passengers survive an accident, but it also has features that can prevent one in the first place. For example, Ford’s MyKey system allows parents to set limits on things like speed and the radio volume for new drivers. The Fusion also has available all-wheel drive (something typically not found in this class), making it a sure-footed option for winter weather.

With a starting price that’s less than many other midsize cars, plus better-than-average long-term ownership costs, the Fusion is a reviewer favorite for combining value with a great ownership experience. 

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Mark Sappenfield
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