Before the trip ...
You always get into Ford cars with a certain sense of uncertainty and anticipation of new experiences. Interestingly, different models of this brand not only differ in formal terms (class, interior, interior trim, engine size or wheel radius) - for different cars from Ford, be it extremely large Expedition, stylish Focus II, sports Cougar or imposing Mondeo, like different characters, demeanor on the road, the attitude to the driver, which the cars of this brand certainly have. In the homeland of Ford in America they say: “Car with an attitude.”
Ford Mondeo impresses with its appearance: solid hind wings, give away German, some kind of Mercedes solidity, the rise of the contours somewhat resemble another German hit - WV Passat. The similarities end when the front fenders begin to form a recognizable profile of Ford sedans and are crowned with the familiar "smiling" grille. Other external details that can not be overlooked and which add solidity to the car are alloy wheels and large door openings, as if created for those who, due to their nature or public position, are not used to stooping.
On road
We tested the version of Mondeo with a 2.0 liter engine with a manual gearbox and I must say that the car even with such an engine shows high throttle response, but there are still 2.2 liters; 2.5 l; 3.0 L! A clear grab, fast acceleration and rapid movement without loss of control - this is the credo of Mondeo in speed. Owners of foreign cars with power steering are familiar with the problem when it is required to hold the steering wheel with both hands at the speed of the GUR's hypersensitivity. At Mondeo, a patented electric power steering is used to solve this problem, which is designed to reduce the sensitivity of control response at high speed. The dry weather during the test, unfortunately, did not make it possible to assess the behavior of the car on a snowy or icy road. We simply note the impeccable operation of the brakes, directional stability, smooth movement. A strong point is also a good insulation of the cabin. The negative aspects include the work of the clutch, which, in our opinion, is somewhat harsh and may require getting used to.
Interior
The interior of Mondeo is calm and stylish. High-quality porous plastic front panel, which is nice to touch, interior fabric, durable and also tactilely pleasant. The driver’s space is ergonomic: regardless of the driver’s dimensions and the corresponding seat settings: you can easily reach the gearshift lever, handbrake, radio console, air conditioning deflectors - in general, everything that drivers like to touch and adjust periodically in order to feel like full owners . The instrument dials are recessed inwards and covered with small visors on top for better readability in bright light, it does not matter the sun or oncoming headlights. The front panel extends forward, forming a significant space between the driver and the windshield, which fills the cabin with “air”, creates space and, therefore, a feeling of comfort for those who are driving and for passengers.
For the benefit of those who are located in the back seat, there is also a decent space reserved. The minuses include a too small, somewhat sports steering wheel, not very suitable for this car. Although the size of the steering wheel for some time not only a matter of taste, but also fashion. In the interior, on the whole, a thoroughbred character, thoughtfulness and reliability reign. Separately, I want to note the decorative trim and inserts in the cabin, which once again confirm that "the devil is in the details." Depending on the configuration, the linings can be classic - “wood-like” - they give the cabin a calm, somewhat conservative look, and can be metal - the atmosphere of the cabin instantly changes with them, the car looks like endowed with some kind of cosmic energy in the hi-tech style.
Summary
Ford Mondeo has 4 basic modifications, 5 engine types (including diesel) and about 40 additional options to choose from. Moreover, the run-up in the price of modifications is significant: if the basic Ambient can find a master for 59 thousand dirhams, then the more advanced Trend will cost 65 thousand. For a packed Gear with a leather interior and a full range of available options, you will have to pay 75 thousand. However, such a marketing strategy seems to be very competent - because it allows you to essentially sell several cars under the Mondeo brand in the segment, from a city family car to a “packaged” business class on a common platform.
However, even if we ignore the modifications, the Ford Mondeo itself is so harmonious that it will be equally comfortable for a successful young man with his beloved girlfriend, a father of a family with children and households, or a representative of the business community meeting business partners at the airport. As in the rest and for everyone else, for whom not only a spacious car will be valuable, but a spacious car with an attitude.
