New Mondeo family shapes up

	The Mondeo is set to be one of the most distinctive cars in the family class

What do you think? Is this a great estate? Ford certainly hopes so because, following on from our spyshots of the new Mondeo hatchback in issue 908, Auto Express has pulled off another sensational scoop, with pictures of the blue oval's next load-carrier.

This is the fresh Mondeo Estate and, thanks to our exclusive main picture, not only can we reveal it for the first time, but also the face of the new model. As you can see, the Mondeo is set to be one of the most distinctive cars in the family class. Its front end draws inspiration from the sporty S-MAX MPV - complete with the now trademark gaping lower air intake and large headlights.

Further styling cues include crease lines which run along the bonnet to the edges of the grille - details that have been taken directly from the Iosis concept - while chunky wheelarches and a rising waistline continue the dynamic look in profile. The Estate features an extended tail, steeply chopped back window plus rear lights also drawn from the S-MAX. And with a longer wheelbase than its predecessor, it should be very practical, too, offering even more space.

In addition to tactile, soft-feel materials for the dashboard and centre console, the Mondeo Estate is likely to have a twin-height boot floor and a clever system of partitions - similar to Vauxhall's FlexSpace layout - to maximise load space. As with the hatch, the Estate will get improved safety kit including knee airbags, tyre-pressure monitors and adaptive cruise control.

The driving experience will feature sharp steering and a compliant ride. This will be enhanced by Ford's active suspension system - which is likely to be self-levelling on the Estate. The engine line-up will mirror the hatch's, with 1.8, 2.0 and 2.2-litre turbodiesels as well as 1.8 and 2.0 petrols.

The range will be topped by a mighty 225bhp 2.5 five-cylinder turbo. Most variants will boast six-speed manual boxes. Engineers are putting the finishing touches to the Mondeos ahead of their debut at September's Paris Motor Show.

Prices will start at around £17,000 when the roomy newcomer goes on sale in 2007.