Ford Mondeo Estate 2.0 EcoBoost

By Dean Gibson

June 2011

• Rating:
• Latest deal price: from £15,095 to £23,853

Hyundai’s new i40 has some formidable opposition in the estate car class, not least in the shape of the Ford Mondeo.

The recently facelifted family model is still on top of its game, and we’ve tried the flagship petrol version: the 2.0 EcoBoost Titanium X Sport, fitted with Ford’s Powershift twin-clutch gearbox.

One thing is for certain: the top-spec model certainly looks imposing, thanks to the large 19-inch alloy wheels and LED daytime running lights. Our car’s bright silver finish makes the most of the lines, too.

Inside, there’s plenty of space for five, while the vast boot has enough room for most. With the seats in place, there’s 537 litres on offer; fold them flat, and the capacity increases to 1,728 litres.

Titanium X spec is lavishly equipped. Climate control, rear parking sensors – essential on such a long car – and leather and Alcantara seats with red stitching are all standard. What’s more, owners who plan to carry heavy loads can specify self-levelling suspension.

On the road, the Mondeo is a spirited performer. The 2.0-litre EcoBoost petrol turbo engine delivers 300Nm of torque from as low as 1,750rpm, so acceleration is strong, with a 0-62mph time of 8.2 seconds.

Ford’s six-speed Powershift gearbox makes life easy, too. It provides quick, seamless changes, and the electronics do a good job of choosing the right ratio at the right time – unlike some autos, it doesn’t kick down unnecessarily, and relies on the engine’s torque for acceleration instead.

Sports suspension boosts the Mondeo’s racy credentials further, even in estate guise. Turn-in is sharp and there’s plenty of grip, and the Ford corners with the poise and agility of a hot hatch.

But the suspension also does a good job of absorbing lumps and bumps – so although this car rides on 19-inch alloy wheels, it’s a comfortable cruiser.