Back on Oct. 23, we called the Ford Fusion a "quiet winner" and a "sleeper" after noticing just how many glowing reviews the midsize sedan (hybrid version and otherwise) was receiving. Well, looks like the cat's out of the bag now: The Fusion has just been named Motor Trend's Car of the Year.

Like the entertainment industry, the automotive world does suffer from a bit of awards overdose, but the Motor Trend trophy still carries serious cachet (expect to see Ford roll out some new spots with the iconic golden calipers trophy). And considering the Fusion beat out almost two dozen competitors -- including the best-selling Toyota Camry (the Fusion currently ranks No. 10, though it's been the top-selling domestic vehicle since it's reintroduction in March) and popular Honda Accord -- Ford has a reason to brag.

Undoubtedly contributing to the car's success is its impressive gas mileage: The automatic version of the nonhybrid Fusion S gets 27 mpg -- 2 mpg better than a similarly equipped Camry or Accord.

The new Fusion is a major redesign (making it eligible for the award) from the Fusion that was first introduced in 2005. The new version got a new engine, new transmission, new front and rear sheet metal, and a new interior.

Clearly, the investment paid off in a big way.