2013 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ

2013 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ

2013 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ

2013 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ

2013 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ

Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ midsize sedans. Both will use the new “CD4” platform, a chassis that looks set to become the backbone of Ford’s global lineup of vehicles. The Euro-look of these test mules is nothing but a clever disguise.

The Fusion, MKZ and Mondeo will be the first to share this chassis. Powertrains are rumored to consist of 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter inline-4 engines, both featuring Ford’s EcoBoost turbocharging system. A hybrid is also a certainty, although it’s too early to know if Ford will stick with the 2.5-liter Duratec 4-cylinder and nickel-metal hydride batteries of the current model. We think this is highly unlikely, given that the new Fusion’s engines are being downsized.

The styling of the next-generation Fusion is said to borrow heavily from the new Focus and the Taurus sedan. This means a more dynamic look—or “Kinetic” to use Ford’s lingo—with a bold and elegant front end (like that of the Focus) mixed with the solid-looking profile and rear-end treatment found on the Taurus. The Fusion’s current chrome grille is also likely to be significantly revised—a Ford designer recently told us the grille with three chrome bars had served the company well, but it’s time for a change.

Look for the next Fusion and MKZ sedans to arrive in early 2012, for the 2013 model year. Soon thereafter, the Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX crossover vehicles will jump to the CD4 platform, followed by the Taurus, MKS and several other Ford products around the world.