REPORTS of the traditional family motor's demise are premature if the new Ford Mondeo is anything to go by.
An increasing army of SUVs and people carriers have eroded market share for traditional hatchbacks and saloons like the Mondeo that have increasingly been perceived as old fashioned.
But the third generation of Ford's flagship should ensure the fight is carried back to the enemy.
This is an exceptional car combining style with great driving dynamics as well as all the features needed to make it a practical choice for families.
The latest Mondeo boasts a new exterior - with the front and rear ends bearing more than a passing resemblance to an Aston Martin.
The 'Kinetic Design' styling gives a dramatic first impression as does its huge size.
Despite dwarfing its predecessor - especially widthways - the designers manage to give the new Mondeo a sleek look with the inside of the car also more comfortable and refined.
Ford have gone for a sporty and futuristic interior. It's easy to get comfortable behind a steering wheel that doubles as mission control for the car's many goodies.
There's also a screen mounted on the dashboard between the dials that gives the driver easy-to-see information.
The top of the shop Titanium X trim completes a range that starts with the Edge and works through Zetec and Ghia.
Features include dual zone climate control, cruise control, adaptive front lights, a power starter button, heated front seats, Sony radio/CD player with a six CD autochanger, 17-inch alloy wheels, electric folding door mirrors, and Ford EasyFuel capless refuelling.
There's also a host of electronics designed to keep you on the road, plus an army of airbags in case you come off.
The boot could house the three bears plus Goldilocks, while the Mondeo offers all occupants comfortable seats and a cavernous space. One problem though is visibility from the rear which can make parking a bit of a chore.
Running costs are acceptable, with the 2.0-litre diesel engine returning an average fuel economy figure just short of 48mpg, while keen servicing prices from Ford's UK dealer network keep running costs under control.
As with most modern oil burners these days, things are incredibly quiet under the bonnet - the engine barely raising its voice above a whisper.
Don't mistake this for a lack of get up and go though, as it takes the Mondeo from 0-62mph in 9.5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 130mph.
There are eight other engines to choose from, including five petrols and three more diesels.
Handling was always one of the Mondeo's main strengths and if anything that is improved on the new car.
It is equally adept on tight and twisty country lanes, the stop/start of the urban jungle, or cruising along the motorway - if you're lucky enough to find one without a traffic jam on it.
Nothing fazes the Mondeo thanks to its superb suspension control.
The body is much stiffer than the old car allowing corners to be taken with impunity.
The steering manages to combine lightness with accuracy, giving a tremendous amount of information to the driver and so inspiring confidence.
All in all, Mondeo man may find himself very much back in fashion.
FAST FACTS
Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCi Titanium X 5dr
Price: £21,645
Mechanical: 138bhp, 1,997cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 6spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 130mph
0-62mph: 9.5 secs
Combined mpg: 47.9
Insurance group: 9
CO2 emissions: 156g/km
BiK rating: 21%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles, 3yrs paint, 12yrs anti-rust