Classy Mondeo glides along

The Ford Mondeo has a nice solid feel to it

There was a time when the two words ‘Mondeo man’ when used together was a term of derision, but let me tell you the new Ford Mondeo is nothing to scoff at.

It’s a real classy looking car, long and sleek with a hint of muscle on the outside, with eye catching front LED lights.

Inside, the cabin is large and nicely finished and the boot is also big enough to carry golf clubs or a buggy.

Tall people will find the Mondeo a pleasant experience as there’s oodles of leg room both back and front.

The model I was driving had a cloth interior with leather steering wheel and chrome finishes on the door handles and on the gearstick.

It was also very well spec-ed, with cruise control, speed limiter, nicely designed CD/Radio in the centre console, and Bluetooth.

I really liked the voice recognition facility which allows you to change the radio station, operate the CD player, turn up or down the temperature, or phone someone through your voice at the touch of one button.

The five-door six-speed manual 1.6l diesel model I was driving also had parking sensors back and front, electric mirrors and stop/start technology.

Like most Fords, the Mondeo has a nice solid feel to it. it drives well in an urban situation and motorway driving is a doddle.

It’s also very economical, falling into the Band A tax bracket.

In fact, there’s very little to dislike about the Mondeo.

It is very big, both in length and in width, so parking, even with the sensors, can be a little bit challenging.

I also thought the sound system could have been better.

Overall though, the Ford Mondeo is a nice strong comfortable car that glides along at high speeds and looks classy enough to be a head turner.

The entry level Style model is available in Ireland from €25,745, with the top of the range Titanium available from €29,995.

The Zetec model costs from €28,445, with optional full size spare wheel, power mirrors and daytime running lights in the Zetec I was driving bringing the total cost to €28,785.

Tech Spec
Engine: 1.6 TDCi 115PS Manual diesel
Acceleration: 0-100kph in 11.9s
Maximum Speed: 190kph
Combined fuel consumption: 4.3l l/100km
CO2 emissions: 114g/km
Annual road tax: €104 (Band A)/€160 (2012)

For more please visit ford.ie or Ford Ireland on Facebook

A version of this article first appeared in Metro Herald