Photo by Kyran O’Brien
The stylish new Ford Mondeo offers a tempting fusion of comfort and performance that makes it more than worth the wait writes Geraldine Herbert
What is it? Despite appearing at motor shows in the US way back in 2012 a decision by Ford to relocate production of their Mondeo from Belgium to Spain delayed its arrival here by almost three years. In that time rivals have made ground on the old Mondeo in terms of interior quality, technology and engine efficiency. So, is the new Mondeo good enough – not only to fend off niche models and rivals – but also to make up for lost time?
Who is it aimed at? Cars such as the Ford Mondeo are facing increasing competition from crossovers, compact SUVs and MPVs for a slice of the family market.
Styling? On the outside the Mondeo is a sleeker looking car than the previous version and sports the new Aston Martin lookalike front grille.
Under the Bonnet? Our test car was the 115bhp 1.6-litre TDCI engine and while this is the most road-tax-friendly of the models, emitting just 109 g/km of CO2 while managing 3.6 litres per 100km or 78mpg, it does feel underpowered. As a result this economy rating may not be replicated in real-life commutes, so the two-litre diesel might be the better option. If you don’t fancy a diesel there is also a 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol option to consider, the most powerful engine available in the current line up.
What about inside? Inside it is stylish, but the quality throughout could be a little better. Space is good for the driver and front passenger and in the rear, where there is more than enough room for three adults. At 550 litres the boot is huge and particularly useful, as it is well shaped for easy loading of those awkward items.
On the Road? The Mondeo has always been the car of choice for the keener driver and the new model won’t disappoint. On the road it is fun, sporty and the steering is very nicely weighted. The new suspension design has reduced road noise along with increased sound proofing to block out tyre and wind noise, so it is a lot more refined than before.
And Safety? The Mondeo is crammed with technology to keep you safer including a pedestrian detection as part of the anti-collision systems, LED headlamps and inflatable rear seatbelts which expand in the event of a crash, like an airbag, to spread the force of the impact across a wider area to reduce injury. The Mondeo also gets Ford’s SYNC system with Emergency Assistance, a voice-activated technology that enables drivers to keep their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel, and can directly connect vehicle occupants to local emergency services operators after an accident .
Options? Stand spec on the Mondeo is high and includes: 16” alloy wheels; front fog lamps; quickclear windscreen; day-time running lights; trip computer; MyKey; SYNC; cruise control; leather steering wheel / gear lever; power front and rear windows; and Auto Start Stop. Our test car, the Titanium version added extra features such as 17” alloy wheels; chrome door-line; auto lights and wipers; power-fold mirrors; front and rear parking sensors; Lane Keeping Aid; Traffic Sign Recognition; SYNC Gen 2; 8” touchscreen; sport seats; and auto dimming mirror.
Will it break the bank? Available in two trims initially, Zetec and Titanium, prices start from €28,995 for the Zetec and from €31,495 for the Titanium.
Verdict? The Mondeo is a really good blend of comfort and performance and once again is unrivalled when it comes to handling and driving – nothing in this class approaches the Mondeo’s ability to tackle a bend. There are cars in this market that are more economical and those with classier interiors but while you can’t please all of the people all of the time, Ford has come pretty close with the new Mondeo.
Why you’ll buy one? Handling; Styling; Price
Why you won’t? Rivals have better quality inside;
Rivals
Watch our video review below (Video Filming by Kyran O’Brien)
Ford Mondeo Titanium 1.6TDCi
Engine: 1560cc, 115bhp @3,600, 270NM @1750
Max speed: 192km/h
0-100 kph: 12.1 seconds
Emissions (Motor Tax) : 109 g/km (€)
Model price range: €€28,995 –
No of Doors: 5 doors
Euro NCAP : 5 stars
Fuel type: Diesel
Fuel Economy (combined cycle): 3.6 l/100km (78mpg)
Boot Capacity Seats up (down): 541 Litres (1437)
Car Seats: 2 Isofix fittings in the rear
Length: 4871mm
Width: 1852mm
Height: 1482mm
Wheelbase: 2850 mm
For more information on the new Mondeo check out Ford.ie the Ford Ireland Facebook page or follow them on twitter here
Geraldine Herbert
25th March, 2015
