The Ford Fusion, which debuted back in 2006, has been Ford’s best mid-size car since, well, as long as I can remember. But to keep the model fresh, Ford will unveil the new 2010 model at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show.

Deep technical details are scarce at this point, but we do know that its powertrains have been updated for efficiency. The biggest news however isn’t what’s under the hood-it’s what’s behind that dashboard.

Slip behind the wheel of the 2010 Fusion Hybrid and you’ll spot a conventional, analog speedometer. But that’s where similarities to a conventional dash end. Start the Fusion and bright video displays pop up on either side of the speedometer.  Drivers can set the system, Dubbed Smart Gauge with Eco Drive, to display any of four different levels of information.

Look no further than that grill, and you can see Ford’s new 2010 Fusion has more than a few changes. Behind those blades, Ford will offer a choice of three engines, a 175 hp 2.5-liter Four Cylinder, a 240 hp 3.0-liter V6 and the top dog, a 263 hp 3.5-liter V6. But the most significant news is that all three will come paired exclusively to a 6-speed automatic that has been enhanced for fuel economy.

Ford says certain models can get up to a 10 percent boost in mileage from this transmission. The Fusion will also receive electric power steering and a deceleration fuel shutoff, which shuts off the gas flow when the driver eases off the accelerator. The system will premier on 3.0-liter Fusions but later in the 2010 model year, Ford will offer the system on the 2.5-liter Four Cylinder.

The fuel savings? About 1 percent. Hey, every percent counts these days. Want better fuel economy? A hybrid version joins the lineup next spring. Functionally similar to the Escape hybrid, the sedans enjoy numerous improvements that allow greater electric-only range-up to 47 mph-and should achieve nearly 40 mpg. But specs and fuel economy are only part of the story here.

At its most basic, the readout will provide fuel level and battery status. Step it up to “Enlighten” mode, and a tachometer appears, along with a visual simulation of the hybrid’s operating mode. In “Empower” mode, you’ll also see such things as engine and battery power output, as well as a display indicating the amount of power being sucked up by accessories-like the vehicle’s air conditioner and headlights.

There’s a lot of WOW factor in the 2010 Ford Fusion.  If a new car is on your horizon, this gives you something to keep on your radar.