Ford has announced pricing for the stop-start system on the 2013 Ford Fusion.

Usually a system fitted to hybrid vehicles, the Fusion is the first non-hybrid midsize sedan available with stop-start technology, which cuts the engine at a standstill to save gas.

Ford claims the system improves real-world fuel efficiency by about 3.5 percent overall, but as much as 10 percent for drivers who predominantly drive in the city.

Unfortunately, the system isn't likely to make much of an impact on the EPA window sticker, as EPA testing doesn't replicate stopped traffic to any great degree. However, if you regularly commute in heavy traffic, you'll know how much time you spend not going anywhere, while the engine merrily consumes your hard-earned fuel.

Stop-start won't affect the Fusion's projected 37 mpg highway figure, but it should be quick and unobtrusive in city traffic.

Equipped to the 1.6-liter EcoBoost-powered Fusion, the engine switches off when you come to a stop. As soon as you release the brake pedal, the engine fires up, allowing you to continue. This reduces both fuel consumption and emissions.

Ford now says it has the widest selection of fuel-efficient powertrains in the midsize segment--two gasoline EcoBoost engines, a normally-aspirated four-cylinder, a hybrid estimated to reach 47 mpg, and the upcoming 100 MPGe 2013 Ford Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid.

While the Fusion is the first non-hybrid midsize to gain stop-start tech, we've seen it on non-hybrids before--Kia was the first mass-market brand to offer it in the U.S, on the 2012 Kia Rio.

And the price? Ford is offering its Auto Start-Stop system for only $295--not bad, considering the technology is $400 on the Kia Rio--and Ford says that along with the efficient EcoBoost engine, it could save you as much as $1,100 in gas over five years, over its mid-size competitors.

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