Mondeo gets facelift and hybrid estate 23 | 01 | 2019
FORD HAS REVEALED a refreshed version of its Mondeo for 2019. In addition to getting a new eight-speed automatic gearbox, diesel engine and additional driver assistance features, the family favourite also gets a new hybrid estate. The new models will be available in Scottish showrooms from March, with prices starting at £21,995. The Mondeo Estate Hybrid is priced from £28,000. (Related: M-Sport reveals 2019 WRC Fiesta livery)
Mondeo buyers now have the choice of a new diesel engine. Replacing the older 2.0-litre TDCi, Ford’s new EcoBlue 2.0-litre engine is offered in two states of tune; 148bhp and 187bhp. Though the carmaker has yet to announce fuel figures, CO2 emissions for the 148bhp and 187bhp are 127g/km and 133g/km respectively. Both outputs can be mated to an al-wheel drive system. The range also includes a 163bhp 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol engine.
The Mondeo Estate Hybrid uses the same 2.0-litre petrol engine and electric motor combination already found on the saloon hybrid. Capable of delivering 184bhp, the electric-only facility allows only for very short distances. The system though has been recalibrate, and Ford says the power delivery is now smoother and more efficient than previously.
Frustratingly, the hybrid estate isn’t as practical as petrol and diesel powered versions simply due to the battery pack being housed user the boot floor. Stowage drops to 403 litres, increasing to 1508 litres with the rear seats folded flat.
The new look benefits from subtle design teaks, including a new grille, more aggressive looking front bumper, redesigned taillights, plus a new chrome or satin silver strip spanning the width of the tailgate.
At the front, Ford has elected to emphasise a greater visual difference between the Mondeo’s various trim levels. That means while the grille on the Titanium model receives horizontal chrome slats, the ST-Line gets a black finish, with the flagship Vignale cars receiving the ‘flying-V’ grille.
Inside the cabin, automatic models have been updated to feature the new rotary gear selector from the latest Focus. This comes as a result of the new Mondeo getting Ford’s latest eight-speed automatic gearbox, which in turn benefits from the new adaptive cruise control system with complete stop and go ability.
The 2019 model also gets an updated speed limited function which works with the Mondeo’s traffic sign recognition software. Via the car’s Intelligent Speed Limiter, the Mondeo’s maximum speed is automatically adjusted to match the changing speed limits. However, the system only slows the car down; the driver must accelerate when the speed limit increases.
Elsewhere there are a host of new exterior colour options and alloy wheels on the options list, plus the new ‘free space’ in the centre console has allowed designers to add a new USB port.
On-sale in March, the entry-level saloon in Zetec trim will cost from £21,995, with the new Mondeo Estate Hybrid — available only in Titanium and Vignale trim — starting from £28,000.
Related: Ford reveals lightweight GT
Keep up-to-date with all the latest news by following us on twitter.com/Scotcars
Jim McGill