Both the 2020 Ford Fusion Plug-In Hybrid and Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid combine interior luxury with a green commute. Choosing between them can be tough, so we’re here to help. Our side-by-side comparison takes a close look at each model.
Standard Luxury: 2020 Ford Fusion Plug-In Hybrid
For interior style, the Fusion Plug-In Hybrid takes a solid lead. Its only trim model, the Titanium, puts an emphasis on luxury, with standard features that include leather upholstery and remote engine start. Inside, comfort abounds. This Ford hybrid includes automatic climate control, rear air vents, and a heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Unlike the Fusion, the Honda Clarity Plug-In doesn’t roll out the red carpet with its Base trim model. If you want all-out luxury, you have to upgrade to the top-trim Touring model. It includes upscale touches, like a synthetic suede interior and leather seats.
High-Tech Safety: 2020 Ford Fusion Plug-In Hybrid
Every Fusion Plug-In Hybrid comes standard with a list of driver safety aids. Many of these features can actually steer you clear of danger – including lane departure mitigation and pre-collision warning with automatic braking and pedestrian detection. This Ford hybrid also includes automatic high-beam control and a blind-spot monitor, helping you safely manage your surroundings.
The Honda Clarity Plug-In also comes standard with a similar range of safety aids. However, some of these systems, like the forward collision warning system, have a reputation for being overeager, needlessly alerting you to non-dangerous situations. You want this technology to help you stay out of trouble, but it can be irritating when it’s alerting you to nonexistent issues.
Smoothest Ride: 2020 Ford Fusion Plug-In Hybrid
In addition to a well-appointed cabin, the Fusion Plug-In Hybrid delivers a smooth, quiet ride. It’s the kind of performance that will remind you of a big European luxury sedan. From the driver’s seat, you have access to plenty of power, making it easy to achieve cruising speed.
The Honda Clarity Plug-In is also quick to accelerate, though it’s slower to speed up as you reach highway speeds. This four-door sedan feels very comfortable on even pavement. However, when you hit a bumpy road, the Clarity Plug-In suspension fails to smooth them out, cutting back on ride comfort.
Best EPA Ratings: 2020 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid
When it comes to their gas ratings, the 2020 Ford Fusion Plug-In Hybrid and Clarity Plug-In Hybrid both earn 42 mpg combined. Using a combination of gas and electricity, the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid is a bit thriftier, earning 110 MPGe. The Fusion Plug-In Hybrid earns 103 MPGe, an excellent second-place showing.
The 2020 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid gives you a little bit more mileage, but the 2020 Ford Fusion Plug-In Hybrid delivers much more than a green performance. It’s luxurious, high-tech, and seriously smooth. In short, the Fusion Plug-In Hybrid is the total package.