Designed to appeal to the eco-conscious buyer, the Ford Fusion Hybrid and the Honda Clarity Hybrid are cars worth comparing. With the option to plug in or use gas back-up, these cars are the wave of the future to clean up our air and have the security of a gas-powered mode. Two different cars - both hybrids. Let’s take a look at both.
Design and Safety Feature Comparisons
The 2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid's long list of strengths help it remain one of the best choices in the options of hybrids. Its standard Ford Co-Pilot360 protection package, with blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, pre-collision assists with automatic emergency braking, rear view camera, and adaptive cruise control makes this model a step above most; all while retaining its affordable base price. Its upscale cabin design that remains quiet at highway speeds, makes it a strong competitor in its class of hybrids. Its well-weighted steering and agility lets it tackle twists and turns with composure and you don't have to sacrifice comfort either with Fusion’s smooth ride.
Honda’s 2020 Clarity Hybrid is surely a competitor to the Fusion Hybrid, but lacks some of the strengths of the Fusion. It offers similar driver assist technology comparable to the Fusion with standard automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Their LaneWatch system is part of their safety package; but it can be distracting as it displays a camera image of what’s in your blind spot as soon as you flip on the turn signal. It comes with a few limitations, such as limited cargo space and less legroom in the back seat, and a dated infotainment system. If you are used to other Honda sedan rides, you might also find the ride quality to be a little too soft with slow acceleration and handling.
The base Fusion Hybrid comes well-equipped with an excellent SYNC 3 infotainment system, an 8-inch touch screen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, a Wi-Fi hot spot, navigation, two USB ports, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and a nine-speaker stereo. An 11-speaker stereo, a 12-speaker stereo, and HD Radio are available.
There is no comparison to the Fusion with Clarity’s dated infotainment system. While it offers an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an eight-speaker sound system, its interface needs work and is hard to use when moving with its distracting touch-sensitive buttons. The infotainment is one of its biggest drawbacks and is a bit of a letdown in this Honda sedan.
The Fusion Hybrid pricing begins at $28,000 for the SE to $34,595 for the Titanium Hybrid with 43/41 city and highway MPG. With a full charge, the Fusion plug-in hybrid has an estimated driving range of 26 miles. Put that full charge with a full tank of gas and that range jumps to 610 miles. Conserve your energy and drive efficiently with features like regenerative braking, EcoSelect and EcoCruise. These eco-conscious advantages come standard.
The Honda Clarity Hybrid is offered in three fuel source versions – plug-in hybrid, electric, and fuel cell; though there is limited availability in all but the plug-in hybrid. It’s starting price begins at $33,400 for the Plug-in Hybrid to $36,600 for the Touring Plug-in Hybrid. In the gas engine it delivers 42 mpg in combined city/highway driving. The Clarity offers a 47-mile electric driving range and gasoline kicks in when the batteries run low, providing an estimated 340 miles of total driving. If you are looking for the Fuel Cell; you are looking at an upward starting price of $58,490 – Note, this model is currently only offered in California.
Overall
Two different hybrids, catering to the eco-conscious buyer. For the price and what you’re offered, the Ford Fusion Hybrid is your best bet as Honda’s Clarity struggles to find its place in a class of hybrid and electric cars