LARGE FAMILY CARS:This is a car that in many cases will be put through a lot of miles and hard work, so it needs to be strong and it feels really well made.
Price:€25,925 - €41,270
NCAP Crash Test:*****
Seats:5
Doors:4/5
Engines:1.6, 2.0, 1.8D, 2.0D and 2.2D litre
Trim levels:LX, Zetec, Ghia, Titanium X
Quality and reliability: ****
This is a car that in many cases will be put through a lot of miles and hard work, so it needs to be strong and it feels really well made.
Performance: ****
There is not a bad engine to choose from the units on offer - best of all being the 2.0-litre 138bhp TDCi which really suits the car, but even the 108bhp 1.6-litre petrol engine is more than adequate. Many will go for the 1.8-litre diesel, which comes in two guises, with 100bhp and 123bhp. The FlexiFuel petrol version is good value, thanks to a VRT rebate.
At the wheel: *****
There is a good driving position and plenty of adjustments to the seating and steering wheel.
This is a cracking car to drive, with truly class leading driving dynamics but not at the cost of comfort. It's without a doubt the best car to drive in its class, although the Opel Insignia runs it close.
Space and comfort: *****
Ford has worked hard on this car's refinement and it has paid off.
Noise and vibration is down to a minimum and the suspension is superb at soaking up bad bumps on the road.
This is a huge car, with more than enough room front and rear and with an enormous boot.
Safety: *****
Mondeo achieved a very high five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, getting 35 points, making it one of the highest-rated cars by the organisation. All cars come with ESP as standard and seven airbags.
Running costs and depreciation: ****
Previously Mondeo wasn't as strong as some of its rivals at the end of its life for keeping its value, but this new one should have a strong start. The range of engines is vast and there is something for every budget. The 1.8-litre diesels are frugal to run.
THE CONCLUSIONS:
For:looks, quality, space, safety - it has the lot
Against:Opel Insignia
Irish Times verdict:the best family car on sale in Ireland? For now yes, but Insignia is coming
Best buy:1.8 TDCI 125PS Zetec