2013 Ford Fusion named Green Car of the Year

LOS ANGELES - Big news from the LA Auto Show. The 2013 Ford Fusion has been named Green Car of the Year courtesy of Green Car Journal.

The Fusion beat out several finalists including the 2013 Dodge Dart Aero, Ford C-MAX, Mazda CX-5 SKYACTIV and the Toyota Prius c.

Significant reduction of petroleum use and CO2 emissions and overall environmental impact were cited as reasons why the 2013 Ford Fusion received the honor. The vehicle is also priced to encourage high sales volume, furthering environmental efforts.

"We are very honored that the all-new Ford Fusion has been recognized as the Green Car of the Year by the Green Car Journal," said David Mondragon, Ford general marketing manager. "From EcoBoost to hybrid and plug-in hybrid offerings, the new Fusion is delivering best-in-class fuel economy all wrapped in a dynamic package."

The 2013 Ford Fusion has five powerplant choices. Three efficient gasoline internal combustion engines including two with EcoBoost technology, a 47 mpg hybrid, and a plug-in hybrid that's expected to top 100 mpg.

"The 2013 Ford Fusion approaches the market with a 'game-on' attitude," said Ron Cogan, editor and publisher of the Green Car Journal and CarsOfChange.com, and president of the nonprofit Green Car Institute. "There's no overstating the importance of what Ford has done. Many have long envisioned new car showrooms where a desired model could be purchased with one of many distinctly different and efficient powertrains, selected to satisfy a buyer's particular needs and desires."