Ford Fusion Earns Autoweek's Highest Honor: Named Best in Show at North American International Auto Show +VIDEO

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DETROIT - January 12, 2012: Just days after being revealed to the world, the new Ford Fusion is already bringing home awards. The Autoweek editorial staff has chosen Fusion for its Best in Show award at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS).

The selection is based on one compelling measurement -- the car people will remember most five years from now.

"It's very rare for a midsize sedan to win Best in Show," said Autoweek Editor Wes Raynal. "I think it's the first of a lot of awards the Fusion is going to win this year."

Watch the complete Ford Fusion Press Conference at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show

Fusion brings alive the next generation of more expressive vehicles from Ford. It is the first sedan to offer gasoline, hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions -- each expected to deliver top fuel economy and an engaging driving experience.

"I've been with the company for 13 years," said J Mays, Ford chief creative officer, "and I can truly say this is the best car ever to come out of the design and engineering center in Dearborn. We are delighted for the entire global design team, because this really was a global effort."

Fusion is being revealed in North America in S, SE and the range-topping Titanium series, and points to the next Ford Mondeo for world markets.

Smart, sleek and fresh, the new Fusion is set to change how people think about midsize sedans, elevating the game with jaw-dropping fuel economy and the smart technology and refinement typically found in cars costing thousands more. From its groundbreaking design to its enhanced craftsmanship, Fusion is setting a higher standard.

The all-new Fusion will be on public display -- along with other award-winning Ford vehicles -- in Detroit's Cobo Hall through Jan. 22