15 Apr 08
I had deliberately opted for the Mondeo in an attempt both to return to the real world of middle-of-the-road motoring families and to, ahem, save more than few bob on fuel costs. Trouble is, having lashed about in the Focus for quite some time, I am once again entirely attuned to traditional hatchback handling and ride qualities, the shock of transition from the R-Class and Disco diesels having been entirely absorbed during use of the Focus.
For all that, the Mondeo has proved something of an instant hit.
The product of Ford's new 'Kinetic' design philosophy, the Mondeo estate is a good looking car all over. Local, knee-jerk detractors of the Blue Oval have already been heard to mutter that 'it looks just like any other Ford', but I personally think this is a Good Thing, and my only gripe with the couture of this fetchingly ice-blue specimen is the cumbersome lattice-work of the radiator grilles, which would look a deal better blacked out.
On board, swathed in a blend of Alcantara and leather trim, without a hint of the ghastly wood which I know is available to those who aspire to living in Baden-Baden, the Mondeo is instantly comfortable, with perceptibly more rear seat room and, naturally, a capacious loadspace. As we've come to expect from Ford the driving position is first class. Remind me to tell you sometime about my personal experience of the 'Old Person Suit' the designers use to ensure ease of access and seating comfort for even the most senior of citizens...
