Sturdy and cheap

The problem with the ford fusion tdci is the second adjective in the headline; it just feels that Ford has tried to trim costs by reducing plastic quality. So, while the Fusion retains Ford's impeccable build quality and sturdiness, and looks impressive from the outside, the inside, particularly the dark shade on the dashboard, feels positively down-market.

But here is the dichotomy: most cars which feel so wrong inside are usually quite wrong to drive as well, but not so the Fusion tdci.

The diesel engine, borrowed from the Fiesta, does not feel out of place in the Fusion. In fact, the slightly shorter car (though they do share the same wheelbase) seems slightly more agile than the Fiesta.

The car is zesty at low speeds, handles beautifully, thanks to its large, wide tyres and is a pleasure to drive in city traffic.

The problem with the 1399cc diesel engine is, however, the complete lack of high-end grunt-it produces only 68 horsepower. While the engine will get you moving to 70-80 kmph with ease, after that it starts straining, and chances are that you will run out of road before you can get past 120 kmph.

The 1298cc DDiS engine on the Suzuki Swift churns out 75 horsepower, though the Fusion is a bit less demanding on fuel.

2007 Ford Fusion TDCi

Engine: 1399 cc

Power: 68 PS @ 4000 RPM

Torque: 160 Nm @ 2000 RPM

Length: 3989 mm

Wheelbase: 2486 mm

Kerb Weight: 1180 kgs

Price: Rs 6.59 lakh
(ex-Delhi)

This lack of grunt feels annoying when you are on a highway, and especially compared to the manically peppy petrol option the Fusion has. Ford India's Managing Director Arvind Matthew says Ford will not be bringing in a larger diesel engine, though a 1600cc tdci does exist in its stable. This may primarily have to do with price. The Fusion tdci, which has lost a bit of length and comes in at under 4000 mm and has a diesel engine below 1400cc (just!) is eligible for the lower rate of excise for small cars. That is quite ironic, because the Fusion does not feel like a small car. Rear seat legroom is decent for a car in its class, but because of its shape, boot space is particularly impressive. Don't expect the Rs 6.59 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) price-tag to get you any toys, though. This is a car you would want to buy if you drive a substantial distance every day, and do not get the occasional urge to press the accelerator. But one humble request to Ford: please change the plastics. It just feels wrong in an otherwise nice car.