THE NEW Mondeo has been the best thing from Ford since the Cortina.
The previous Mondeo was never in the old legend-in-its-own-lifetime class, but the latest Ford top saloon has got to take the honours, especially in its 2.5i V6 24v Zetec S version fitted with the new Durashift 5-tronic gearbox.
There is something about the new Mondeo that gives it that elusive X-factor. It is a heady mix of stunning style, a highly individual interior and handling properties many opposition manufacturers would die for.
Ford has had a chequered career with certain models in recent years - the executive market reeled from its withdrawal of the Scorpio, the Cougar coupe could have done better and the latest Fusion model sits somewhat uneasily in the range.
But there are certain vehicles that have totally polished the blue badge. In addition to new Mondeo they are the Ka, Fiesta and Focus.
Cheesy as it may sound, the introduction of the new Mondeo could have signified a return to the old Cortina name, because this is the only model since the great old car that could have carried it off. Volkswagen did it with the Beetle, so why can't Ford jump on the name resurrection bandwagon?
On the road, the Zetec S is one of those cars you just do not want to get out of. It's a total sparkler
People who pull back from buying a car like this because they think it is the tool of the company rep should think again. This is a highly individual and totally rewarding car.
At £20,145, the Zetec S auto is not cheap - with all the bells and whistles fitted, my test car came out at £22,195. You can get an X-Type Jaguar for under £20,000, but it is a question of which image you want to cultivate.
Mondeo is Ford through and through with rail-riding handling that would not be out of place on cars costing double its price. After the long saga of the sorry Sierra, Ford has finally got it right again in the sector that counts.
FAST FACTS
Ford Mondeo 2.5i V6 Zetec S Auto
Price: £20,145
Mechanical: 170bhp, 2,544cc, V6 petrol engine driving front wheels via five speed Tiptronic auto transmission.
Max speed: 134mph
0-60mph: 10.4 secs
Combined mpg: 26.4
Insurance group: 15
CO2 emissions: 254g/km
BiK rating: 32%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 12yrs anti-rust