Fusion

In California, car buyers do seem to like the Ford Fusion Hybrid and Eneri Plug-in Hybrid.

Ford could start selling a plug-in hybrid in Europe pretty soon, according to at least one of its executives. Whether it's willing to do so is another story. But if the market perks up, so will the company.

Consumer Reports seems to be taking on a different tactic than it did a few months ago on fuel economy. The publication took Ford and the US Environmental Protection Agency to task for overstating mileage ratings on the C-Max and Fusion hybrids in late 2012. Then, earlier this year, CR

Ford Motor Co. bested forecasts for second quarter earnings with brisk sales of its Fusion sedan and Escape SUV, as well as increased pickup truck sales and diminished losses in recession plagued Europe.

Ford Motor Co. reported better-than-expected first quarter earnings thanks in part to a brisk business the automaker is doing with its Ford Fusion family sedan, which won AOL Autos Car of the Year honors for 2012.

Simply put, that extra mass is protective--it helps to protect the occupants from injury.

A lot happened at this year's North American International Auto Show in Detroit. One way to sum it up: there will be stunningly beautiful hybrids coming our way. Detroit always has been the place for automakers to show off their latest and greatest, and now that includes the latest generation of hybrid and electric vehicles. Here are our favorites: