The Mondeo has always been a great handling car, but time doesn't stand still. Just when the other car makers thought they had caught up, Ford delivers a simply superb car.
The hit movie 'Casino Royale' gave us the first glimpse of the new Mondeo with no less than James Bond (or 'Seany-Boy' to you and me) behind the wheel. Even without 007 the new saloon, hatchback and estate versions all cut a serious dash.
The front of the car is very smart despite having a higher bonnet profile. This was done to improve pedestrian crash safety. The high shoulder-line gives the side profile a strong look, while the rear of new Mondeo is modern and fresh with nice boot lid creases that mirror tail light lines.
The Mondeo is a match for the excellent VW Passat in the looks department and to many eyes more daring.
It is built on a new platform that is found on the Galaxy and S-Max (European Car of the Year) so it is no surprise the cabin is huge and airy. The build and materials used are improved upon also.
The general feeling is one of class. The steering wheel is just one example of how Ford has been clever reducing manufacturing costs as it is shared with the S-Max and Galaxy. The driving position is fully adjustable and near perfect. However I did find myself positioned a shade too close to the steering wheel when the seat was adjusted for the three pedals.
The engine range is comprehensive with even a green Flexi-fuel-vehicle version on the way. Due early next year, it will be Ford’s third FFV following Focus & C-Max. The entry-level Mondeo uses a 1.6litre petrol engine. This engine is essential in the Mondeo class because of our ridiculously high taxes.
With 110bhp on tap the four-cylinder moves the large car quite well and more importantly it comes with a 25,000 asking price. Mondeo is serious value for money.
The 1.8 litre diesel is perhaps the real diamond, as it is quick but thrifty too. The larger 2-litre diesel cost more, but is more thrilling.
Since 2003 the diesel share of the car market has grown from 18% to 27%. The petrol range topper features the engine from the very powerful Focus ST. It's quick, enough said.
Adaptive suspension is an option on higher end models if the standard suspension set up doesn't fulfill your needs.
The system has three settings, namely Comfort, Normal and Sport. Comfort irons out the bumps (like a big Citroen) while the normal setting is a misnomer as it is above the norm and of course sport mode stiffens up the experience. Mondeo handles Irish roads remarkably well and completely outclasses its rivals when it comes to driving dynamics.
The ride quality is so good, it shames many a car costing twice as much, I kid you not!
ESP is now standard right through the range as it is with the VW Passat. ESP reacts to situations where traction is lost at the road wheels and intervenes by applying the brakes to individual wheels as needed to help alleviate a loss of control or skid. Mondeo’s Euro NCAP score is terrific too.
Ford expects Mondeo sales to reach 7,500 in 2008.
The new Mondeo is simply the best car in its class, it really is that good.
Michael Sheridan
