Model tested: Ford Mondeo 2.2 Titanium X 5dr
Price: £23,855 (£15,695 - £25,645)
Date tested: July 2008
Road tester: Adrian Higgins

Overall rating: 85%
The Mondeo finally gets the looks to square up to German rivals – with an ever-improving stable of good quality models, that oval badge is starting to look more appealing.

1. Looks
The new Mondeo looks miles better than its predecessor. Influenced by German rivals, the Mondeo now looks like a genuine alternative - from its cool-looking triangular rear cluster to its angled headlights.
8/10

2. Looks inside
The great design continues inside with the Human Machine Interface, a digital display which is easy to operate and looks modern. Dark plastics and silver dominate the interior, providing an upmarket environment.
8/10

3. Practicality
The four door saloon offers 535 litres of boot space; the hatchback offers 528-1448 litres while the estate can manage 542-1733 litres. There's plenty of room inside for people as well as luggage, with ample leg and shoulder room.
9/10

4. Ride and Handling
The latest version delivers great dynamics in spades; it's a very talented car with the ability to make your drive entertaining as well as functional.
9/10

5. Performance
Our 175bhp 2.2-litre TDCi with a six-speed manual gearbox can manage 0-60mph in 8.4 seconds and a 139mph top speed.
8/10

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6. Running Costs
The 2.2-litre diesel Mondeo we drove gives the best of all worlds, producing 165g/km of CO2 (£145) and returning 45.6mpg.
9/10

7. Reliability
Ford is the ninth most reliable manufacturer according to the Reliability Index and the Mondeo, now 15 years old, has a good record. Some models use existing engines and gearboxes which will also help reduce the likelihood of any problems.
8/10

8. Safety
The Mondeo carries a five-star EuroNCAP rating and comes with ESP, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Emergency Brake Assist and seven airbags.
9/10

9. Equipment
All Mondeos have ESP and Emergency Brake Assist, Ford Easy Fuel (which stops you putting the wrong fuel in), trip computer, cruise control and leather steering wheel. The range-topping Titanium X also has 17-inch alloy wheels, front foglights, dual-zone air conditioning, adaptive front lights and alcantara/leather trim.
8/10

10. X-Factor
Exterior looks. A full year after its launch and a Ford Mondeo is still turning heads? Says it all.
9/10