The AWD model is closer in weight & the engines made 280whp on the stock tune. While it's base price was 40 grand 10 years ago, you can find a 2013-2014 for less the base price of the Fusion Sport while having the option to get a CPO warranty when they are out of warranty. New cars don't just compete with new cars.
Also the Fusion Sport is a mid $3x,000 car. The Dodge Charger R/T, Chevy SS, Subaru STI, Infiniti Q50 3.0T, Focus RS (at MSRP), Cadillac ATS/CTS, (both selling for much lower than MSRP) and plenty more all compete in the Performance Sedan category. To me, it's between the Chevy SS, Fusion Sport, & Focus RS.
The Chevy SS has more power and LS3 reliability with a HUGE aftermarket. The Focus RS looks to be a factory tuner car that will perform well & hold it's value great. The Fusion Sport does put down great numbers, but if numbers defined a great car then the Genesis R-Spec Coupe would be amazing.
The Infinti's have a great lease deal, and the motor is underrated with tuning up to 400HP is easy.
I just want a reliable and sporty 4 door car that isn't a bulky Taurus SHO or a bland Charger.
The Fusion Sport has serious potential, but potential can be wasted