Mondeo TDCi

Although economical, the blue oval's oil-burners lacked refinement compared with the latest efforts from VW and Renault. But the firm knows it can't let rivals reap the rewards of higher diesel sales. In the UK, they are likely to rise from around 20 per cent now to 30 per cent within three years. And with diesel-powered company cars now preferred for their low-er emission tax ratings, Ford has seen the need for a clean, economical and refined performer.

The new Mondeo TDCi 2.0-litre has 130bhp, and the 330Nm of torque at 1,800rpm is 16 per cent greater than the outgoing diesel, the TDDi. However, the TDCi also benefits from a unique overtorque system that regulates the quantity of fuel injected as well as boost from the turbo to reduce lag and ensure a smooth delivery of power. Starting the Mondeo TDCi produces a familiar, though brief, diesel rattle, and at idle the clatter doesn't suggest any new-found silkiness. At low speed the engine remains noisy, but in higher gears and with turbo boost kicking in, something remarkable happens.

The TDCi becomes exceptionally smooth and quiet before powering into an ultra-refined, high-speed cruise that would match any petrol-powered sporty executive saloon. Performance figures impress too, with a top speed of 124mph and fuel economy promising to be 47.9mpg. An emissions rating of 156g/km puts the TDCi in the 15 per cent tax bracket for company car buyers. Ford is also offering more value by including emergency brake assist, an automatic and time-sensitive security relock, wash-wipe when reversing and the new Telematic integrated in-vehicle communication system.

Although it has been a little late in modernising its oil-burning engines, Ford has eventually come good with the new TDCi arguably one of the most impressive diesels yet.

Despite healthy sales in the mid-size sector, Ford has sorely lacked a quality diesel engine to cap the new Mondeo range, especially with the emissions-based tax system being introduced in spring. Finally stung into action by the thought of VW's bulging Passat Pumpe Duse order book, the blue oval now has an oil-burner to be proud of. Its new Duratorq line-up is headed by the 2.0-litre turbodiesel, a powerplant that is both strong and super-refined. As the old saying goes, it's better late than never...

At a glance

* New 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi-engined Mondeo on sale in UK from early January

* Priced from