Ford Mondeo 2.0 EcoBoost (240ps) Titanium 5-door

Ford's Mondeo took a big step towards the premium sector when the new model was launched in 2007 and three years on it's time for a revised version to carry on that work. New engines, new styling and new technology have all been added to further the appeal.

The Ford Mondeo started to turn the tide for the 'Blue Oval' when it hit the market in 2007, with a considerably more premium look and feel setting the trend for the latest generation of models from the popular manufacturer. With the premium manufacturers upping their game in response to the Mondeo's increasingly luxurious appeal and sub-premium rivals also unveiling stylish and well built models in the years since its launch, Ford has revised the Mondeo to keep it one step ahead.

Subtle exterior revisions include new LED lighting, a trapezoidal grille and increased chrome around the window-line. Inside, the instrument and control layout has been heavily revised and there are new material and colour options available.

Ford has been hard at work developing new tech for the range, too. Lane departure warning, automatic high beam deactivation, driver weariness alert and smart new instrumentation are all available. Reversing cameras and a blind spot notification system also mean the revised Mondeo has a technically advanced feel to support the increasingly premium ambience inside.

There are changes under the bonnet, too, with two new engines designed to bolster fuel economy and performance. A new 2.2-litre DuraTorq diesel offers impressive performance combined with CO2 emissions that will benefit drivers in terms of taxation, while a new 2.0-litre turbocharged EcoBoost petrol unit combines with the PowerShift twin-clutch automated manual transmission to provide a 19 per cent reduction in emissions over the old 2.3-litre petrol automatic combination with a 50 per cent increase in power.

Our verdict on the Ford Mondeo 2.0 EcoBoost (240ps) Titanium 5-door

An accomplished all-round package, the revised Mondeo looks, feels and goes even better than the impressive previous generation. The styling changes are reserved from outside but the ambience is improved within and the new equipment available means the model remains at the cutting edge. The 237bhp turbocharged petrol unit offers strong performance allied to respectable fuel returns. Yet, even without the high performance unit, the Mondeo feels great to drive and proves extremely comfortable.

Costs

Ford has driven down its actual purchase prices to make the Mondeo considerably more competitive on price, while generous specification for higher trim levels adds value. Models will need to be carefully spec'd to ensure a decent return in residual value but the more efficient engine options will drive down cost of ownership without having to sacrifice performance. Additions such as the adaptive grille that can limit drag and save fuel when additional cooling is not required shows commitment on Ford's part to reducing running costs.

Space and practicality

Space is not an issue within the large Mondeo, and even in the five-door version folding the rear seats flat offers up a large load bay. The saloon model is no longer available in the UK, but buyers can opt for the very large estate if required. Storage options in the front are adequate with a very deep glovebox and room between the front seats for additional items.

Controls and display

A simplified centre console design is neat and intuitive and the main switchgear all feels sturdy and slickly engineered. The main instrument cluster is now dominated by an excellent colour display that offers a wide range of pictorial and text information in an easy to read and pleasant to view manner. The revised model's controls and displays are a real triumph.

Comfort

Excellent ride quality benefits driver and passengers and the Mondeo's interior feels very large. Head, shoulder and legroom are all very generous and the seats are supportive and well bolstered. Road and engine noise remain at very low levels on the road while climate control and electric windows are expected of a car in this segment.

Car security

All of the usual security features are in place, from remote central locking to an advanced alarm system. For added convenience, a 'keyless-go' system is available. The Mondeo also contains plenty of covered storage inside the cabin and the boot contents remains concealed.

Car safety

Adding to the built in crash safety cell, full array of airbags and ESP systems comes a raft of intelligent tech designed to make the Mondeo a safer car on the road. A lane departure warning system vibrates the wheel to alert drivers to a drifting situation, a Driver Alert system warns drivers when they are letting their attention slide by monitoring the vehicles behaviour and Blind Spot Assist proves highly effective at alerting to the presence of vehicles within the immediate vicinity. The Mondeo can even dim its own headlamps to prevent blinding oncoming traffic.

Driver appeal

With an even more powerful petrol engine under the bonnet, the Mondeo is an even more rewarding car to drive. AN excellent chassis is predictable and responsive, with a nimble feel to the steering. The Mondeo feels large on the road and is occasionally a little difficult to place on B-roads, but the new 237bhp EcoBoost engine is sharp and powerful, responding quickly to throttle input with smooth delivery across the rev-range. The PowerShift transmission is equally silky and competent in full auto or manual mode.

Family car appeal

Ford offers an excellent range of MPV's, but the Mondeo is perfectly capable of serving as a dual purpose family and business car. The rear will easily accommodate three growing children and the boot is large enough for pushchairs and the like. Safety is also well catered for, offering peace of mind for parents.

First car appeal

It's unlikely that the Mondeo will appeal to the first time driver. It's a big car, by novice standards, and will cost a fair bit to run even with the more economical engine options available.

Quality and image

Ford continues to be associated with mainstream, volume products, but the rapidly improving quality and upmarket appeal of its products has not gone unnoticed by car buyers. The improvements to the Mondeo make it feel like an even more quality product and, although the badge remains less desirable than some of the traditional and mostly German premium manufacturers, the Mondeo's quality in terms of build and ability rivals the best.

Accessibility

The Mondeo proves to be a practical and versatile car. Accessing the cabin is easy from both front and rear doors and the large hatch requires minimal effort to operate. The saloon model is no longer available in the UK, but the hatchback rear offers greater access anyway.

Stereo and ICE (In car entertainment)

Ford's premium sound system offers excellent sound quality through a 265-watt, eight-channel, ten-speaker configuration, plus a 17-litre boot located subwoofer. Naturally for a car competing in the business sector, Bluetooth and sat-nav are available or present depending on trim level choice. Drivers will not be left short of business or leisure tech options.

Colours and trim

The Mondeo's exterior has seen some subtle revisions to the grille and lights, with running lamps incorporated into the fog light units among the biggest changes. It still loos good in more reserved silvers and dark colours, though. Inside, the black satin effect centre console is among the revisions - it's subjective whether it's an improved design but it certainly looks and feels upmarket. LED lighting adds a premium ambience and part Alcantara interiors are very welcoming.

Parking

The Mondeo feels like a big car, but speed dependent steering weight and decent visibility make it a reasonably easy vehicle to manoeuvre. A rear view camera is now available with a clear picture displayed on the central screen and the automated manual six-speed PowerShift transmission copes well with low-speed, stop-start driving and is quick to select reverse.

Spare wheel

Space saver fitted as standard.

Range information

Petrol engine options - 1.6-litre (118bhp); 2.0-litre (143bhp); 2.0-litre (200bhp); 2.0-litre (237bhp). Diesel engine options - 2.2-litre (197bhp); 2.0-litre (161bhp); 2.0-litre (138bhp); 2.0-litre (113bhp). Transmission options: five-speed manual gearbox, six-speed manual gearbox, six-speed PowerShift twin-clutch automatic gearbox.

Alternative cars

Vauxhall Insignia Vauxhall's rep car has similarly upmarket appeal

Honda Accord Under-rated Japanese model also strong on tech

Mazda6 Great looking and good value hatchback and estate

BMW 3 Series A strong range of engines and huge badge appeal