Special Mondeo For NEC

The Thunderbirds live stage spectacular is the main attraction on Ford's British Motor Show stand - but there's also a Mondeo making a big noise.

Auto Express Car Reviews

26th May 2004

This striking special edition appears alongside the new ST TDCi, and combines the style of the sporting flagship with the luxury of the Ghia version. The as yet unnamed model is tipped to be called the Ghia Special Edition.

As you can see, chrome trim and an ST220 bodykit have been added, plus 17-inch alloys. Inside, cutting-edge Bluetooth wireless technology and grey Alcantara trim feature. The model is designed to bring Ford's saloon - now nearly four years old - back into the spotlight ahead of newer rivals. At the NEC, the black five-door will come with a version of the ST220's 3.0-litre V6 unit, detuned from 223bhp to 201bhp. Replacing the ageing 2.5 V6, this gives 0-62mph in 7.9 seconds - only 0.4 seconds slower than the ST220.

There's also a more economical diesel model. It comes with the same new 2.2-litre oil-burning powerplant as the ST TDCi. This delivers 153bhp, and Ford engineers reckon the car can return 46.3mpg and complete the 0-60mph sprint in around 8.7 seconds. Both special editions go on sale in October, with prices approximately ΂£21,000.

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