We video test the brand-new Ford Mondeo Trend wagon.
The new Ford Mondeo range was only shown to most New Zealand and Australian journalists at a launch in Adelaide last week, but we at Company Vehicle were able to get our hands on a pre-launch Trend station wagon to give you our first impressions of this important Ford fleet model.
And the big news is that it is frugal as well as powerful, while at the same time offering European flair and style in a versatile package.
Indeed, the turbo-diesel version is producing economy figures better than comparable hybrid vehicles, while the petrol versions offer six-cylinder performance from economical fours.
Our test car came with the high output 177kW version of the EcoBoost petrol engine, although it’s also available with the 132kW/400Nm TDCi diesel. Both versions
get Ford’s latest-generation PowerShift dual clutch six-speed automatic transmission.
The Mondeo’s standard and optional features list includes an array of driver assistance features not found on most other mid-sized cars.
Most important, for me, are the inflatable rear seatbelts – a world first – which in an event of a crash deploy over an occupant’s torso and shoulder in 40 milliseconds.
There’s also a lane keeping system, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and for those who hate parking, Enhanced Active Park Assist. And in stop-start traffic, Active City Stop can help avoid or mitigate rear end collisions at speeds up to 40 km/h.
Other features include MyKey, which sets limits and guidelines for young drivers, the driver impairment monitor, which uses a camera to observe driver behaviour and fatigue, and if there is an accident, Emergency Assistance will attempt to connect with emergency operators and provide GPS location coordinates when paired with a mobile phone that is in range.
Sync2 voice control allows easier access to audio, navigation, climate control and connected devices, including smart phones, and the modern interior features an eight-inch high-resolution colour touch screen.
The Trend model featured here has 17 inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, adaptive cruise control, 10-way power and heated front seats with power lumbar support, driver seat memory, auto headlamps with auto high beam, rain-sensing wipers, and partial leather seats, dual-zone climate control, leather-rimmed steering wheel and gear shifter, one-touch open/close windows, cloth and partial leather seats, 60/40 split rear seats, and driver lumbar support.
Other features include Bluetooth with audio streaming, as well as satellite navigation with “one shot” destination entry via voice control.
Other features include Bluetooth with audio streaming, as well as satellite navigation with “one shot” destination entry via voice control. The Ford Mondeo range starts from a competitive $43,990 + ORC and with high specification levels and smart fuel economy figures, an excellent fleet vehicle.
John Oxley, managing editor Company Vehicle.
