Ford brings its tippy-top trim level to a hybrid

Ford has discovered that a lot of people will pay top dollar for the very best -- and so it gave the fancy stuff a name and extended it across the lineup. It's called the Titanium trim level, and now Ford is taking the notion to a surprising new place.

It's creating a Fusion hybrid Titanium. It's the first time it has added the tippy-top luxury trim level to a hybrid.

Until now, the Titanium top-of-the-top idea has worked great on pickup trucks and smaller sedans. But Ford figured out that people who are willing to spend more for a hybrid probably aren't reluctant to go for luxury touches as well..

Fusion Hybrid Titanium has been priced at $32,995, a healthy premium on the base Fusion price of $22,495. For the extra dough, buyers get a 10-way power seat, 18-inch wheels, chrome touches, 12-speaker sound system, Ford's latest infotainment and just about any other extra they could conjure.

Fusion Hybrid arrives early next year. The Fusion Hybrid SE on which the Titanium is based starts at $1,575 less than it outgoing 2012 counterpart.

"Traditionally, car buyers have had to compromise when selecting between class-leading efficiency, premium amenities and value," said Samantha Hoyt, Fusion Marketing manager. "The new Fusion Hybrid Titanium lets customers have it all."