Ford Mondeo 2.0 Ecoboost Titanium (A) Facelift Review
08 Jun 2011|32,291 views
The current fourth generation Mondeo has been around for a little over three years and during this time, the car has established itself to be a worthy competitor to its German compatriots.
With each new generation, Ford has inched its build quality closer and closer to the Germans. And the gap has never been closer than with the latest model.
The model's success overseas is clearly defined. Especially in the UK, where Ford has always had a dominant market share. The car even won itself a Car of the Year award on the planet's most popular motoring show, Top Gear.
An impressive NCAP rating of five stars out of five further deepens the quandary as to why the brand isn't as popular here as it should be.
With each new generation, Ford has inched its build quality closer and closer to the Germans. And the gap has never been closer than with the latest model.
The model's success overseas is clearly defined. Especially in the UK, where Ford has always had a dominant market share. The car even won itself a Car of the Year award on the planet's most popular motoring show, Top Gear.
An impressive NCAP rating of five stars out of five further deepens the quandary as to why the brand isn't as popular here as it should be.
 |
Exterior
On the outside, the Ford Mondeo hasn't undergone any dramatic alterations except for a few minor nip tucks. The most obvious differences appear in the front where the car has been given a brand new hood that comes with a pair of subtle crease lines to create interest. The grille as well as lower bumper also sees some minor changes.
 |
The most notable frontal change though is the inclusion of the day time running lights that seem to be the 'in' thing for every car lately. So much that even cabbies in their blue Sonatas are taking to adding them too. Thanks to a certain manufacturer hailing from Ingolstadt for this motoring trend.
The car also sees some minor changes in the rear taillight lenses but these aren't obvious to the observer unless you're parked next to the older 2.3-litre Mondeo.
In addition to the Wagon bodystyle, Regent Motors is also offering the Mondeo in a hatchback configuration. Although hatchback here doesn't equate to the Mondeo losing its rump. The hatchback model gets a tailgate that lifts together with the rear windscreen (think: Audi A5 Sportback). Besides a much wider aperture for your cargo, the hatchback is pretty much the same as the sedan.
While the redesign has been minor, the subtle nip tucks have given the Mondeo a higher level of sleekness and sophistication.
Interior
The inside of the Mondeo positively shines with the excellent build quality that has been put in at the Belgian factory which reminds us that Belgians are better than just making waffles. A tap around the interior is always returned with a solid report. Everything feels well put together with no flimsy switches or levers to speak of.
The front passenger seats feel comfortably supportive and are more than adequate to keep you comfortable for long journeys up North. The driving position in the Mondeo is excellent with the wheel comfortably adjusted to your liking.
The car also sees some minor changes in the rear taillight lenses but these aren't obvious to the observer unless you're parked next to the older 2.3-litre Mondeo.
In addition to the Wagon bodystyle, Regent Motors is also offering the Mondeo in a hatchback configuration. Although hatchback here doesn't equate to the Mondeo losing its rump. The hatchback model gets a tailgate that lifts together with the rear windscreen (think: Audi A5 Sportback). Besides a much wider aperture for your cargo, the hatchback is pretty much the same as the sedan.
While the redesign has been minor, the subtle nip tucks have given the Mondeo a higher level of sleekness and sophistication.
Interior
The inside of the Mondeo positively shines with the excellent build quality that has been put in at the Belgian factory which reminds us that Belgians are better than just making waffles. A tap around the interior is always returned with a solid report. Everything feels well put together with no flimsy switches or levers to speak of.
The front passenger seats feel comfortably supportive and are more than adequate to keep you comfortable for long journeys up North. The driving position in the Mondeo is excellent with the wheel comfortably adjusted to your liking.
Wrapped in soft touch leather, the wheel is comfortable to hold. Buttons for the speed limiter and cruise control are located on the wheel for easy access. Controls for the audio are also replicated here with the buttons finished in tasteful aluminium.
New to the 2011 Mondeo is the command interface system integrated between the two instrument dials. The full colour display lets you control the audio, Bluetooth, vehicle settings and trip computer using simple page menu interface system. The system also shows a detailed trip computer that even shows how economical your driving is using a five-petal scoring system.
Like the previous Mondeo, this one gets the capable Sony audio console hooked up to an 8-speaker system. The system comes with CD as well as USB/AUX-in functions that let you pump tunes through its capable speakers. Interestingly though, the USB/AUX-in jacks are located on the passenger side glove compartment which would require you to use a longer cable to access these functions.
The gearlever in the Mondeo does seem a tad longer than necessary and while it allows for comfortable gearchanges, it does stick out enough to remind us of the excessively long stick shift in the Koenigsegg.
It's in the rear where you get a sense of how spacious the Mondeo really is. Even with an equally tall driver in the front seat, I could still stretch out comfortably in the rear with more legroom than I needed.
Luggage space is also available in spades with the boot boasting 535 litres with the seats up and 1448 litres with the seats down.
New to the 2011 Mondeo is the command interface system integrated between the two instrument dials. The full colour display lets you control the audio, Bluetooth, vehicle settings and trip computer using simple page menu interface system. The system also shows a detailed trip computer that even shows how economical your driving is using a five-petal scoring system.
Like the previous Mondeo, this one gets the capable Sony audio console hooked up to an 8-speaker system. The system comes with CD as well as USB/AUX-in functions that let you pump tunes through its capable speakers. Interestingly though, the USB/AUX-in jacks are located on the passenger side glove compartment which would require you to use a longer cable to access these functions.
The gearlever in the Mondeo does seem a tad longer than necessary and while it allows for comfortable gearchanges, it does stick out enough to remind us of the excessively long stick shift in the Koenigsegg.
It's in the rear where you get a sense of how spacious the Mondeo really is. Even with an equally tall driver in the front seat, I could still stretch out comfortably in the rear with more legroom than I needed.
Luggage space is also available in spades with the boot boasting 535 litres with the seats up and 1448 litres with the seats down.
 |
While the Mondeo might lack the premium feel that the Germans possess, it however matches them in build quality. Considering how much potential the current model is showing, we can't help but feel that the next generation might stand a good chance of knocking the Germans off their pedestal.
The Drive
The biggest change for the Ecoboost though is under the hood. While the older Mondeo chugged around in a Naturally Aspirated 2.3-litre lump, the new car gets a 2.0-litre turbocharged unit that gives much improved power and efficiency.
The new lump boasts a massive power and torque increase of 42bhp and 92Nm more than the older 2.3-litre. Bringing the new performance figures to 203bhp and 300Nm. Despite the huge amount of torque available, the engineers have opted to deliver this power in a measured manner.
The large sedan's acceleration is helped by the torque kicking in at maximum at just 1750rpm which makes the turbo lag hardly noticeable. If you happen to observe a similar performance in the Volvo S60 2.0T, that's because both cars are driven by the same lump. Thanks to a common parts bin for both Volvo and Ford.
Helming the ponies for these opposing sedans is a similar Powershift dual clutch gearbox that affords the large sedan smooth shifts. However the Ford shares the similar issue of missing paddle shifters with the Volvo.
The Drive
The biggest change for the Ecoboost though is under the hood. While the older Mondeo chugged around in a Naturally Aspirated 2.3-litre lump, the new car gets a 2.0-litre turbocharged unit that gives much improved power and efficiency.
The new lump boasts a massive power and torque increase of 42bhp and 92Nm more than the older 2.3-litre. Bringing the new performance figures to 203bhp and 300Nm. Despite the huge amount of torque available, the engineers have opted to deliver this power in a measured manner.
The large sedan's acceleration is helped by the torque kicking in at maximum at just 1750rpm which makes the turbo lag hardly noticeable. If you happen to observe a similar performance in the Volvo S60 2.0T, that's because both cars are driven by the same lump. Thanks to a common parts bin for both Volvo and Ford.
Helming the ponies for these opposing sedans is a similar Powershift dual clutch gearbox that affords the large sedan smooth shifts. However the Ford shares the similar issue of missing paddle shifters with the Volvo.
Manual shfting (though quite unnecessary in this large and comfy sedan) can be attempted using the gearshift. Push down for upshifts and away for downshifts which is interesting as it differs from most manufacturers but feels more intuitive.
Handling of the mid-sized sedan is impressive as with most of Ford's models given their long experience in motorsports. Despite the noticeable bodyroll due to its softer sprung suspension, the steering was still sharp and communicative. Making the car more agile than its size might suggest.
Testament to the car's build quality, the cabin maintains a serene atmosphere in cruise mode. Keeping much of the road and wind noise out.
The new lump under the hood's claim of improved fuel economy is also impressive Gaining an extra 2km/L over the older engine bringing the new figure to 12.8km/L.
Conclusion
Compared to the German and Japanese makes, the Ford seems to present itself as a value for money package. German-like build quality coupled with high equipment levels that include bi-xenon, auto lights/wipers and Bluetooth telephony, the Mondeo starts to look pretty good.
Add its NCAP five star rating into that list and you get a compelling choice for an executive sedan.
Handling of the mid-sized sedan is impressive as with most of Ford's models given their long experience in motorsports. Despite the noticeable bodyroll due to its softer sprung suspension, the steering was still sharp and communicative. Making the car more agile than its size might suggest.
Testament to the car's build quality, the cabin maintains a serene atmosphere in cruise mode. Keeping much of the road and wind noise out.
The new lump under the hood's claim of improved fuel economy is also impressive Gaining an extra 2km/L over the older engine bringing the new figure to 12.8km/L.
Conclusion
Compared to the German and Japanese makes, the Ford seems to present itself as a value for money package. German-like build quality coupled with high equipment levels that include bi-xenon, auto lights/wipers and Bluetooth telephony, the Mondeo starts to look pretty good.
Add its NCAP five star rating into that list and you get a compelling choice for an executive sedan.
The current fourth generation Mondeo has been around for a little over three years and during this time, the car has established itself to be a worthy competitor to its German compatriots.
With each new generation, Ford has inched its build quality closer and closer to the Germans. And the gap has never been closer than with the latest model.
The model's success overseas is clearly defined. Especially in the UK, where Ford has always had a dominant market share. The car even won itself a Car of the Year award on the planet's most popular motoring show, Top Gear.
An impressive NCAP rating of five stars out of five further deepens the quandary as to why the brand isn't as popular here as it should be.
With each new generation, Ford has inched its build quality closer and closer to the Germans. And the gap has never been closer than with the latest model.
The model's success overseas is clearly defined. Especially in the UK, where Ford has always had a dominant market share. The car even won itself a Car of the Year award on the planet's most popular motoring show, Top Gear.
An impressive NCAP rating of five stars out of five further deepens the quandary as to why the brand isn't as popular here as it should be.
|
Exterior
On the outside, the Ford Mondeo hasn't undergone any dramatic alterations except for a few minor nip tucks. The most obvious differences appear in the front where the car has been given a brand new hood that comes with a pair of subtle crease lines to create interest. The grille as well as lower bumper also sees some minor changes.
|
The most notable frontal change though is the inclusion of the day time running lights that seem to be the 'in' thing for every car lately. So much that even cabbies in their blue Sonatas are taking to adding them too. Thanks to a certain manufacturer hailing from Ingolstadt for this motoring trend.
The car also sees some minor changes in the rear taillight lenses but these aren't obvious to the observer unless you're parked next to the older 2.3-litre Mondeo.
In addition to the Wagon bodystyle, Regent Motors is also offering the Mondeo in a hatchback configuration. Although hatchback here doesn't equate to the Mondeo losing its rump. The hatchback model gets a tailgate that lifts together with the rear windscreen (think: Audi A5 Sportback). Besides a much wider aperture for your cargo, the hatchback is pretty much the same as the sedan.
While the redesign has been minor, the subtle nip tucks have given the Mondeo a higher level of sleekness and sophistication.
Interior
The inside of the Mondeo positively shines with the excellent build quality that has been put in at the Belgian factory which reminds us that Belgians are better than just making waffles. A tap around the interior is always returned with a solid report. Everything feels well put together with no flimsy switches or levers to speak of.
The front passenger seats feel comfortably supportive and are more than adequate to keep you comfortable for long journeys up North. The driving position in the Mondeo is excellent with the wheel comfortably adjusted to your liking.
The car also sees some minor changes in the rear taillight lenses but these aren't obvious to the observer unless you're parked next to the older 2.3-litre Mondeo.
In addition to the Wagon bodystyle, Regent Motors is also offering the Mondeo in a hatchback configuration. Although hatchback here doesn't equate to the Mondeo losing its rump. The hatchback model gets a tailgate that lifts together with the rear windscreen (think: Audi A5 Sportback). Besides a much wider aperture for your cargo, the hatchback is pretty much the same as the sedan.
While the redesign has been minor, the subtle nip tucks have given the Mondeo a higher level of sleekness and sophistication.
Interior
The inside of the Mondeo positively shines with the excellent build quality that has been put in at the Belgian factory which reminds us that Belgians are better than just making waffles. A tap around the interior is always returned with a solid report. Everything feels well put together with no flimsy switches or levers to speak of.
The front passenger seats feel comfortably supportive and are more than adequate to keep you comfortable for long journeys up North. The driving position in the Mondeo is excellent with the wheel comfortably adjusted to your liking.
Wrapped in soft touch leather, the wheel is comfortable to hold. Buttons for the speed limiter and cruise control are located on the wheel for easy access. Controls for the audio are also replicated here with the buttons finished in tasteful aluminium.
New to the 2011 Mondeo is the command interface system integrated between the two instrument dials. The full colour display lets you control the audio, Bluetooth, vehicle settings and trip computer using simple page menu interface system. The system also shows a detailed trip computer that even shows how economical your driving is using a five-petal scoring system.
Like the previous Mondeo, this one gets the capable Sony audio console hooked up to an 8-speaker system. The system comes with CD as well as USB/AUX-in functions that let you pump tunes through its capable speakers. Interestingly though, the USB/AUX-in jacks are located on the passenger side glove compartment which would require you to use a longer cable to access these functions.
The gearlever in the Mondeo does seem a tad longer than necessary and while it allows for comfortable gearchanges, it does stick out enough to remind us of the excessively long stick shift in the Koenigsegg.
It's in the rear where you get a sense of how spacious the Mondeo really is. Even with an equally tall driver in the front seat, I could still stretch out comfortably in the rear with more legroom than I needed.
Luggage space is also available in spades with the boot boasting 535 litres with the seats up and 1448 litres with the seats down.
New to the 2011 Mondeo is the command interface system integrated between the two instrument dials. The full colour display lets you control the audio, Bluetooth, vehicle settings and trip computer using simple page menu interface system. The system also shows a detailed trip computer that even shows how economical your driving is using a five-petal scoring system.
Like the previous Mondeo, this one gets the capable Sony audio console hooked up to an 8-speaker system. The system comes with CD as well as USB/AUX-in functions that let you pump tunes through its capable speakers. Interestingly though, the USB/AUX-in jacks are located on the passenger side glove compartment which would require you to use a longer cable to access these functions.
The gearlever in the Mondeo does seem a tad longer than necessary and while it allows for comfortable gearchanges, it does stick out enough to remind us of the excessively long stick shift in the Koenigsegg.
It's in the rear where you get a sense of how spacious the Mondeo really is. Even with an equally tall driver in the front seat, I could still stretch out comfortably in the rear with more legroom than I needed.
Luggage space is also available in spades with the boot boasting 535 litres with the seats up and 1448 litres with the seats down.
|
While the Mondeo might lack the premium feel that the Germans possess, it however matches them in build quality. Considering how much potential the current model is showing, we can't help but feel that the next generation might stand a good chance of knocking the Germans off their pedestal.
The Drive
The biggest change for the Ecoboost though is under the hood. While the older Mondeo chugged around in a Naturally Aspirated 2.3-litre lump, the new car gets a 2.0-litre turbocharged unit that gives much improved power and efficiency.
The new lump boasts a massive power and torque increase of 42bhp and 92Nm more than the older 2.3-litre. Bringing the new performance figures to 203bhp and 300Nm. Despite the huge amount of torque available, the engineers have opted to deliver this power in a measured manner.
The large sedan's acceleration is helped by the torque kicking in at maximum at just 1750rpm which makes the turbo lag hardly noticeable. If you happen to observe a similar performance in the Volvo S60 2.0T, that's because both cars are driven by the same lump. Thanks to a common parts bin for both Volvo and Ford.
Helming the ponies for these opposing sedans is a similar Powershift dual clutch gearbox that affords the large sedan smooth shifts. However the Ford shares the similar issue of missing paddle shifters with the Volvo.
The Drive
The biggest change for the Ecoboost though is under the hood. While the older Mondeo chugged around in a Naturally Aspirated 2.3-litre lump, the new car gets a 2.0-litre turbocharged unit that gives much improved power and efficiency.
The new lump boasts a massive power and torque increase of 42bhp and 92Nm more than the older 2.3-litre. Bringing the new performance figures to 203bhp and 300Nm. Despite the huge amount of torque available, the engineers have opted to deliver this power in a measured manner.
The large sedan's acceleration is helped by the torque kicking in at maximum at just 1750rpm which makes the turbo lag hardly noticeable. If you happen to observe a similar performance in the Volvo S60 2.0T, that's because both cars are driven by the same lump. Thanks to a common parts bin for both Volvo and Ford.
Helming the ponies for these opposing sedans is a similar Powershift dual clutch gearbox that affords the large sedan smooth shifts. However the Ford shares the similar issue of missing paddle shifters with the Volvo.
Manual shfting (though quite unnecessary in this large and comfy sedan) can be attempted using the gearshift. Push down for upshifts and away for downshifts which is interesting as it differs from most manufacturers but feels more intuitive.
Handling of the mid-sized sedan is impressive as with most of Ford's models given their long experience in motorsports. Despite the noticeable bodyroll due to its softer sprung suspension, the steering was still sharp and communicative. Making the car more agile than its size might suggest.
Testament to the car's build quality, the cabin maintains a serene atmosphere in cruise mode. Keeping much of the road and wind noise out.
The new lump under the hood's claim of improved fuel economy is also impressive Gaining an extra 2km/L over the older engine bringing the new figure to 12.8km/L.
Conclusion
Compared to the German and Japanese makes, the Ford seems to present itself as a value for money package. German-like build quality coupled with high equipment levels that include bi-xenon, auto lights/wipers and Bluetooth telephony, the Mondeo starts to look pretty good.
Add its NCAP five star rating into that list and you get a compelling choice for an executive sedan.
Handling of the mid-sized sedan is impressive as with most of Ford's models given their long experience in motorsports. Despite the noticeable bodyroll due to its softer sprung suspension, the steering was still sharp and communicative. Making the car more agile than its size might suggest.
Testament to the car's build quality, the cabin maintains a serene atmosphere in cruise mode. Keeping much of the road and wind noise out.
The new lump under the hood's claim of improved fuel economy is also impressive Gaining an extra 2km/L over the older engine bringing the new figure to 12.8km/L.
Conclusion
Compared to the German and Japanese makes, the Ford seems to present itself as a value for money package. German-like build quality coupled with high equipment levels that include bi-xenon, auto lights/wipers and Bluetooth telephony, the Mondeo starts to look pretty good.
Add its NCAP five star rating into that list and you get a compelling choice for an executive sedan.
Photos by Benjamin G, Kline
Car Information
Ford Mondeo 2.0 Ecoboost Titanium 4dr (A)
CAT B|Petrol|13km/L
Horsepower
179kW (240 bhp)
Torque
340 Nm
Acceleration
7.5sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Ford Mondeo
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