New Ford Mondeo Wagon Hybrid (HEV) – The Image of Refinement.
New Ford Mondeo Hybrid – The Image of Refinement.
As befits a car that pioneers technology, the new Ford Mondeo is available as a Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV). By combining the benefits of both electric and petrol power, the Mondeo Hybrid provides outstanding efficiency and refinement, along with rewarding performance and driving range. Regenerative braking, an innovative SmartGauge with ‘Brake Coach’, plus other sophisticated systems, help further maximise the Mondeo HEV’s power and efficiency. The revisions to the Mondeo include a new front bumper, a different grille for each trim level, and a metallic strip through the cars revised tail-lights.
Ford SmartGuage With EcoGuide;
The Ford SmartGauge with EcoGuide uses intelligent design and an intuitive interface to help you drive more efficiently. A high-resolution LCD screen on the dashboard displays real time driving information, including fuel and battery power levels, while an on-screen animation shows the driver when they are driving most efficiently to help maximise their savings. Smart engineering in the new Mondeo Hybrid means there’s no need to charge the car at the mains. Regenerative braking recaptures energy usually wasted when the brakes are applies, and then uses it to charge the battery. Secondly, the petrol engine powers a generator that sends energy back to the battery. This enables the Mondeo HEV to switch to electric power when needed, in order to maximise efficiency.
Bodystyles & Trim Levels;
The new Ford Mondeo HEV is available in either 4-door Saloon, or 5-door Wagon (estate) bodystyles, with petrol power provided by a 2.0-litre engine, which is linked to an electronically-controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). With a combined power output of 187bhp, and 173Nm of torque, the Mondeo Hybrid is capable of sprinting from 0-100km/h in 9.2-seconds. For to satisfy the needs of internal combustion engine customers, the new Mondeo is also available with a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine with 150bhp in 4-door, 5-door and wagon bodystyles. There are three trim levels in the Mondeo Hybrid – Titanium, ST-Line, and range-topping Vignale, while the Mondeo diesel is also available in entry-level Zetec specification.
Car On Review;
My review car was a Mondeo Titanium Estate Hybrid, which was finished in ever-popular Moondust Silver metallic paintwork. Standard ‘Titanium’ features include 16” alloy wheels, power-folding door mirrors, SYNC 3 with an 8” touchscreen, parking sensors front & rear, keyless entry, cruise control with speed limiting device, traffic sign recognition, and lane keeping aid, along with many more comfort, convenience and safety features. A wide array of optional extras, and special value packs, are available across the entire Ford Mondeo range, along with a choice of up to 11 colour options. Once on the move, the Mondeo Hybrid swaps between the electric motors and petrol engine seemlessly, while the CVT (automatic) transmission is well matched to the powertrain. When in Hybrid mode, the Mondeo is very quiet inside, proving that the Mondeo’s engineering progress is driven by hybrid technology. The Mondeo’s striking, contemporary design enables the car to stand out from the crowd, while the cabin of the car is constructed of high quality material for ultimate durability and practicality. The Mondeo Hybrid is a very capable car to drive through bends, as it possesses great dynamic ability – something Ford cars have been renowned for over the last two decades now. A composed ride, strong brakes, and a compliant suspension set-up ensure that the Mondeo Hybrid handles in a natural and responsive manner at all times.
Boot Space & Pricing;
With the rear seat backs in place, the conventional Mondeo Estate has a 525-litre boot, but the electric technology in the Mondeo Hybrid cuts this figure to 403 litres – which is still an acceptable load area for this type of car. However, this figure can be dramatically increased by folding the rear seats flat when the need arises. The new Ford Mondeo Hybrid range is priced from €34,830 for the 4-door ‘saloon’, while the 5-door ‘wagon’ is priced from €35,997.
Visit www.ford.ie for further information.
