Jalopnik: 2008 Ford Mondeo

Ford Slashing Mondeo Price In China, But What Does This Have To Do With The Price Of Tea?

Matt Hardigree — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 10:40:00 EDT

There were 5 million domestically produced cars sold in China in the first half of the year, meaning that if you can't sell cars in China, you should get out of the car-selling business. And to that end, Ford is cutting the price of its 2008 Mondeo by approximately $3,000 to around $25,000, which is a huge drop in a hot market. Why the sudden change?

Given that the Chinese auto market has yet to cool, this is probably more a matter of the Mondeo not fairing well against the other sedans it is normally pitted against. At this price level it is competitive with the very similar 2009 Mazda6 and the Volkswagen Passat. Either way, Ford wants to take advantage of that thirsty market. [China Car Times]

2012 Ford Mondeo To Look Like Catfish, Take On Passat CC?

Wes Siler — Fri, 23 May 2008 10:40:00 EDT

Achtung Autobild! Lay off the blueberry schnapps. While the growing influence on European Ford design by their North American masters frightens us too, we don't think they'll go so far as to mandate that the 2012 Ford Mondeo Coupe look like our favorite fried fish. In fact, since it's already the best looking, best driving vehicle in its class, we're skeptical of the claim that Ford intends to build a four-door coupe version of the Mondeo at all, much less one that looks like this rendering from the always-quick-to-the-drawing Autobild. If we have one piece of advice for the Germans, it's to stick with the Goethe.

[via Autobild]

Ford Mondeo Titanium Gets That X Factor

Matt Hardigree — Tue, 06 May 2008 10:20:00 EDT

If we were in the market for a new Mondeo, which would mean we'd be living in another country, we'd probably go for Mondeo Titanium S five-door hatch, which comes both with sharp styling cues and a powerful TDCi diesel mill. We should say that's what we would have purchased. Now that we know there's a Titanium X model as the new flagship we're going to bite down on that. Though it isn't going to break any landspeed records with its 0-62 mph jog time of 8.4 seconds, all that style with a sporty suspension, standard six-speed manual transmission and a combined economy figure of 45.6 MPG in the EU combined cycle make for one supreme sedan. Press release and pics of the now passé Titanium S below.

SPORTING APPEAL FOR NEW FLAGSHIP MONDEO BRENTWOOD, Essex, May 6, 2008 - The multi-award winning Ford Mondeo is set to extend its premium sporty appeal with the introduction of a new flagship - the Titanium X Sport. Visually exciting, packed with standard equipment and powered by new premium diesel or five-cylinder petrol engines, the new Titanium X Sport is the most desirable Mondeo yet. Created in response to the recent surge in retail demand for top end versions of Mondeo, the new Titanium X Sport combines superb dynamics with premium luxury and a sportier new look. Available in five-door hatchback and estate body styles, Titanium X Sport models are designed to stand out from the crowd. Aggressively styled 18in alloys fill the wheel arches while twin chromed exhaust tailpipes and body-coloured side skirts complete the picture. The interior is also themed with sporty red stitching on the leather/alcantara seats, leather steering wheel and gear shift lever. Aluminium trim detailing is replaced with stylish piano black inlays. Customers can choose from two powerful and efficient powertrains. Existing five-cylinder 220PS 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol, or the new diesel, which is expected to account for the majority of sales. With 35PS more than its 2.0TDCi sister, the new 175PS 2.2-litre TDCi engine is among the smoothest units of its type combining swift, quiet acceleration of 0-62mph in 8.4 seconds and a top speed of 139mph with a combined economy figure of 45.6mpg. C02 emissions are low too at 165g/km. Generously specified, the Mondeo Titanium X Sport's standard equipment includes in-dash Sony six CD player, voice control, rain sensing wipers, automatic headlights, front and rear park assist, dual-zone climate control and Ford Power start button. Additional upgrades over the standard Titanium include advanced Bluetooth connectivity, bi-xenon lights, alloy pedals and sports suspension. Both engines come with six-speed manual gearbox and insurance groups are 12E for diesel and 14E for petrol models. Available to order now and priced from £23,355 (5 door) and £26,605 (estate) on the road, Titanium X Sport adds more premium appeal and choice to Ford's popular Mondeo.

[Source: Ford]

Ford Mondeo and S-Max Get New Diesel, Titanium S Option, American Lust And Envy

Matt Hardigree — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 10:45:00 EST

If you haven't noticed, it's Kinetic Design Friday. We've got your Ford Fiesta, your Ford Kuga, and now your S-Max and Mondeo. The biggest news is the new 2.2-liter four-cylinder TDCi Duratorq diesel engine for the Mondeo, S-Max and Galaxy. This advanced diesel features the third generation common rail and turbo system, allowing the engine to produce 175 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque while still maintaining low emissions. The Mondeo and S-Max also get a new Titanium S option, which provides additional styling queues such as side skirts, modified grille frames, new fog lamp kits and other touches on the outside. On the inside, the Titanium S models get specially stitched leather, brushed aluminum finishes and piano black surfaces. Full press release and pics below.

FORD EXTENDS LARGE CAR RANGE WITH NEW HIGH PERFORMANCE DIESEL ENGINE AND ADDED SERIES
Ford Mondeo, S-MAX and Galaxy customers now have even greater powertrain and series choices with the launch of a new high performance 2.2-litre diesel engine and sporty new versions of the popular 'Titanium' series.
Developed for performance, the new 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi is the largest displacement and most powerful diesel engine available in Ford of Europe's passenger cars. It gives a sustained 400 Nm of torque at 1,750rpm and 420 Nm of transient overboost provides the necessary power for brisk and confident overtaking manoeuvres. Maximum power of 175 PS is delivered at just 3,500rpm.
The engine has been developed and engineered by Ford and PSA Peugeot Citroën as part of the longstanding co-operation on diesel engines between the two companies. In its first applications with Ford, the engine has been specifically calibrated to provide performance, quietness and smoothness of operation in the company's large and luxury models - new Mondeo, Galaxy, and S-MAX.
"Exceptional quality and reliability are an accepted fact when it comes to our powertrains and this new engine is no exception," explained Nick FitzGerald, Chief Programme Engineer, Large and Luxury Products, Ford of Europe. "The power and torque available is equivalent to a much larger gasoline engine, but in diesel form gives improved like-for-like fuel economy."
New Unique Features
Delivering 400 Nm of peak torque - with a transient overboost of 420 Nm - the engine boasts two new features that are unique to this engine in the Ford line-up: A third-generation common rail and the turbo system with specifically-calibrated pedal mapping.
Third-generation common rail
This high-tech engine features Bosch piezoelectric injectors with seven-hole nozzles which use multiple injection capability and up to 1,800 bar of injection pressure.
Like other diesel engines in the Mondeo, S-MAX and Galaxy ranges, the diesel injection combustion process of the 2.2-litre provides five injections per combustion stroke. The time lapses between each injection are controlled electronically depending on the rpm and engine load, engine temperature and air intake temperature.
This combustion process enhances the premium feel of the vehicle, as it makes the engine very refined by reducing noise and vibration.
Turbo system and pedal mapping
A variable-geometry turbo ensures good efficiency and throttle response. Pedal map sensors that are specifically calibrated give the driver a sensitive and responsive throttle pedal feel, which contributes to an easy and convenient driving experience. The turbocharger is calibrated to offer superb responsiveness at low revs and seamless acceleration under part load conditions.
Good responsiveness at low revs contributes to good control in parking and manoeuvring situations. As the engine is switched off a throttle shut-down system lessens any vibration.
Performance and Emissions
The performance of this engine is demonstrated by its target acceleration figures; all Ford models using this engine can reach 100 km/h from a standing start in less than ten seconds.
A fully optimised combustion system also contributes to reduced emissions. The Mondeo, S-MAX and Galaxy models using this engine respectively emit 165, 176 and 179 g/km of CO2. "Given the power and torque, and therefore the acceleration of this engine, these figures are very reasonable indeed," said FitzGerald
The 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi engine is a Euro IV compliant engine equipped with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) which is designed and manufactured for zero-maintenance.
Uniquely, in Ford Motor Company products, the engine is equipped with an 'intelligent oil condition monitoring algorithm'. The system was developed by Ford engineers and is designed to ensure that the engine oil is maintained at optimal performance levels. An information lamp in the instrument cluster illuminates when the system recommends that the oil should be removed and replaced. This useful driver feedback is designed to give superior engine reliability and durability by tailoring the maintenance of the engine oil to the car's use. This is coupled to a 'variable' service interval of up to one year or 20,000km. Full technical specifications can be seen in the Technical Data section.
Sound Quality and Vibration
The best possible Sound Quality and Vibration (SQ&V) is an important aspect of all Ford powertrains and the new 2.2-litre diesel engine is no exception. The engine is fitted with balancing shafts to further diminish vibration.
Paired with Ford's acclaimed 6-speed Durashift manual transmission, this combination offers a powertrain with lots of torque - maximum 400 Nm at 1,750rpm - something that contributes to relatively few gear shifts and reduced driver fatigue. Twin pilot injections for the combustion process simultaneously optimise emissions, fuel economy and play a significant role in reducing the conventional noise of a diesel engine to contribute to the most pleasant acoustic behaviour.
"Conventional diesel technology is by no means dated thanks to the actions we take in developing the engines and calibrating them specifically to our range. Many drivers like the familiarity that a diesel engine gives them with the combined fuel economy, long service life and reliability and modern refinements in our portfolio where this engine will be available," explained Phil Lake, Chief Engineer, Powertrains, Ford of Europe.
Joint Ford and PSA Peugeot CitroënDevelopment
"The development of this engine has joined the skills, experience and techniques of engineers from Ford Motor Company and PSA Peugeot Citroën to achieve high goals and objectives for this engine," said Steve Adams, Ford of Europe's Vehicle Line Director for Large and Luxury cars. "Thanks to the utilisation of system engineering, and modern digital simulation, a team comprising 200 people from both companies have developed the engine in just three years. A further 300 people are now assigned to the production of this engine."
New Sporty Titanium S series for Mondeo and S-MAX
The Mondeo and S-MAX ranges have been expanded by the introduction of a new sporty Titanium S model. Based on the highly specified Titanium models, new features and elements have been added to give both cars even greater styling presence and a highly sporty character.
"The 'Titanium' series features and styling details complement perfectly the 'kinetic design' elements of both vehicles, and with over 50 per cent of customers ordering this series, we know it is a success," said Adams. "Now, with the sporty Titanium S we have added more overt styling elements and features to create a new and individual series derivative."
Exterior Styling
The Titanium S series is available on new Mondeo five-door and wagon bodystyles plus the S-MAX.
A standard, full body styling kit gives the vehicles a unique and sporty look. Side skirts and a rear spoiler are a standard feature on the S-MAX and are now offered as an option on Mondeo, and are finished in body colour.
The lower trapezoidal front grille situated in the body-coloured front bumper skirt has a lower grille frame in a contrast colour of silver or anthracite, depending on the body colour. The upper and lower grilles of the Mondeo Titanium S have a unique honeycomb design for series differentiation. A new front fog lamp kit also features bezels - on the Mondeo Titanium S models - in the contrasting shades. The body-coloured rear bumper skirt incorporates an integrated diffuser in a contrasting shade that surrounds the tailpipe finishers on the exhaust.
Tailored Technology
Standard sports suspension gives a 10 - 15mm lower ride height than the regular suspension, and the set-up is unique, offering more stability over uneven surfaces, less body roll and more direct steering thanks to the use of harder damper settings, stiffer springs and suspension bushes. The Sports suspension complements the sporty nature and agility of the Titanium S, as do the 18-inch alloy wheels.
For Mondeo Titanium S customers choosing the option of Interactive Vehicle Dynamics Control (IVDC) with Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD), the sports suspension is not required and subsequently not fitted.
Ford's enhanced Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) is also fitted as standard to Mondeo and S-MAX Titanium S models, and gives the driver the swivelling and cornering headlight functions. Additional Titanium S features have been tailored to each car line; the S-MAX, for example, gains privacy glass while the Mondeo acquires a standard Ford Power start button.
Interior Styling
Soft-touch surfaces to key contact areas and the use of piano black and brushed aluminium surfaces have already become a signature of the high quality materials and craftsmanship of the established Titanium series. With the new Titanium S, further detailed changes to interior components, materials and finishes give the passenger compartments a sporty feel that is characteristic of the new series.
A new 'Carbotex Sport' appliqué is used on the door spears and areas of the instrument panel. Piano black surface areas have been extended forward to surround the multimedia unit and in-car entertainment controls. The Sports seats are partially trimmed in leather and red thread used in a running stitch frames and divides into sections the seat squab and cushion.
The same red stitching is also applied to the gear shift gaiter, the armrest of the centre console and - for the Mondeo Titanium S - the interior door panels. The leather steering wheel trim has been divided into four areas and the positions where the driver's hands would most naturally fall are finished in a special perforated leather trim which extends around the toggle switches and thumb rests. Red stitching has been applied to the inner radius of the steering wheel in a substantial diamond design. The interior look is completed by black velour carpet mats that are edged by a red surround.
Further Personalisation
The Titanium S models still leave scope for customers to further personalise their cars through the creation of an 'S Upgrade Pack'. Applicable to both Mondeo and
S-MAX Titanium S, customers can select aluminium pedal covers, HID
Bi-Xenon units in place of the AFS headlights and Alcantara seat trim in place of the partial leather.
New Galaxy Titanium
Until now, the most luxurious Galaxy series available is the Ghia. The Galaxy Ghia model features additional chrome exterior styling, a full length overhead centre console and automatic headlights and windscreen wipers.
"Galaxy customers like the layout and technology that the car gives them but they have also been telling us that they like the modern 'techno' and contemporary elements of the successful Titanium series used in the Mondeo and S-MAX," said Adams. "What appeals is the high level of equipment, the unique styling features such as the brushed aluminium finishes, and the driver assistance features like the Ford Convers+ full colour instrument display."
Responding to this customer feedback, a new Galaxy Titanium series is placed at the same high level as the existing Ghia model in the range, and includes the same high levels of standard equipment:
• Automatic headlights
• Automatic wipers with rain sensor
• 'Quickclear' heated front windscreen for most European markets
• Cruise Control
• Power operated and heated door mirrors with puddle lamps
• Rear air conditioning
In addition, the technology and driver assistance features are further enhanced by new styling features; many of which will be familiar from existing 'Titanium' Mondeo and S-MAX models.
The use of brushed aluminium in areas where chrome is used on the Ghia model and machined 5-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels are the key exterior alterations.
Inside the Galaxy Titanium, sports seats finished in Alcantara trim and the integration of privacy glass enhance the interior ambience while the standard fitment of the Ford Convers+ display in the instrument cluster enhances interaction between car and driver.
Ford's Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) headlights are fitted, equipped with lights that swivel plus additional halogen cornering bulbs. Sports suspension has been added to reinforce the sportier appearance of the exterior styling.
"We believe our customers will appreciate the detail touches made to the interior and exterior of the Titanium S series in our large car range, the availability of the new Galaxy Titanium as well as the performance of the new 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi 175 PS engine." Said Adams.

Ford Mondeo Latest to Get Adaptive Cruise Control, Tech Coming to Lincoln for 2009

Travis Hudson — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 10:45:00 EST

The very European Ford Mondeo that may or may not be coming to the U.S. and is also loved by James Bond, is getting an ever-so-fancy feature: Adaptive Cruise Control, or ACC. For the 2009 model year, the Lincoln MKS will get the technology in the U.S.

ACC is the cruise control technology that protects against complete idiots. By mounting a radar unit behind the front grille, it can calibrate speed so that the vehicle can maintain a safe between the car ahead. The system is also capable of recognizing those jackasses who decide to randomly slow down on desolate stretches of interstate. If it spots one of those nitwits, it will slow your vehicle to match the other guy's speed.

While the lazy bastard in me is green with envy over ACC, but my bank account couldn't give a damn. ACC is a $2,000 option on the Mondeo (Lincoln MKS pricing has not been announced yet). Then again, it is a safety feature, and you can't put a cost on life.... Blah. Blah. Blah.[Gizmag]

Loder1899 Tweaks the Aston Martin Vantage Volante and Ford Mondeo

Matt Hardigree — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 10:45:00 EST

The Bavarian accessorizers at Loder1899 are showing off a little at this year's Essen Motors Show, bringing both an upgraded Mondeo and Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante. The Vantage gets the company's new 20-in "hyper-alloy" wheel, lowering-kit, and a new exhaust system good for a boost to 425 hp. The Mondeo gets mostly exterior upgrades, including a less-than-flattering carbon fiber hood, though a new engine management system and sport exhaust system is good for a 50 hp bump to 270 hp. Press release and high resolution shots below:

The Bavarian tuner presents innovative concepts for the Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante and the new Ford Mondeo

Loder1899 sends two luxury racers to the 2007 Essen Motor Show

For this year´s Essen Motor Show (1.-9.12.2007) the Bavarian Tuner Loder1899 presents the Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante and the new Ford Mondeo.

Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante

The newly created Loder1899 wheel Vertigo Viginti has its debut at the Essen Motor Show. The 20 inch wheel in hyper-alloy look has a fascinating design, and hamonizes perfectly with the luxurious form of the British racer.

Aerodynamic real carbon fiber accessories from one of Germany´s leading tuner Loder1899, embellish the latest Aston Martin. These elegant parts: front-lip, rear diffusor and engine cover are extremely light weight and of the highest quality.

In addition, Loder1899 sport exhaust system includes a stainless steel sport catalytic converter. At 4000 rpm the flap control opens, which allows the engine to breathe out more effectively. Thanks to this optimised exhaust system not only does the sound have more substance, but the power also increases from 385 hp to 425 hp. To finish off the look, the Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante´s beautiful and dynamic lines are displayed to their fullest by Loder1899´s 35mm lowering kit.

Loder1899 gears up the new Ford Mondeo in a special edition designer outfit
The Ford Mondeo shares the podium at this year´s motor show with the Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante. The frost white Ford Mondeo coolly holds its own with a body styling kit made out of real carbon fiber. The discreet front lip and the 35mm lowering kit accentuate the sporty lines of the new Ford bringing it closer to the street. The elegant roof spoiler, the rear skirt and the two branch stainless steel exhaust system (75x105mm), take care of a powerful finish. Rounding off the look nicely is the hand-polished Loder1899 bonnet in a special edition Stainless steel look in a silver, glossy finish.

The wheel/tire combination for the elegant Ford is the 9x20 inch alloy wheel Sins in a shiny, black finish. Alternatively Loder1899 offers the 9x20 inch design wheel W1 in a special edition Polish glam also in a black, glossy finish with polished spokes.

The standard 220 hp Ford Mondeo gains 50 hp, thanks to the up-to-the-minute motor management from Loder1899 and the sport exhaust system.

Loder1899 offers for both vehicles a 4-way adjustable sport suspension system. This enables the driver to adjust vehicle height, gradient, pressure level and strut compression to personal taste and requirements. [Source: Loder1899]

Paris Auto Show Reveal: Ford Mondeo X Concept

Mike Spinelli — Thu, 28 Sep 2006 07:15:00 EDT

The first near-production representation of Ford Europe's new kinetic design styling direction, introduced with Iosis concept in Frankfurt, hit Paris this morning in the form of the Mondeo X concept. Ford says the new Mondeo — which the concept hearkens — is crucial to its line, sharing architecture with the S-Max and Galaxy, and will be built in Genk, Belgium. It's also quite hot in person, though comes off somewhat like a Mazda6 clone in the photos. Don't be fooled.

Related:
More on the Ford Mondeo [internal]

Spy Photos: 2007 Ford Mondeo Sedan

Ray Wert — Sat, 23 Sep 2006 15:48:46 EDT

Ford's got the Mondeo wagon concept dropping like it's hot at the Paris Auto Show this next week (shameless reminder to bookmark the tag and RSS, kiddies!) — but as you can see above (and below the jump) from spy photos taken down in what looks like the Bahamas — the 2007 sedan's got many of the same stylin' features the concept'll be showing off, like the sideways teardrop taillights, chrome door handles and that freaky under-tail groovage. The only thing the sedan's missing is the concept's whole "kinetic design" language thing going on at the front end, but hey, FoMoCo's gotta leave something for next year, right? Oh wait, and the concept's a wagon — mustn't forget that, either.

2007 Ford Mondeo Sedan [FordEurope.net via Autoblog; also CarSpyShots]

More Mondeo: Ford's Prototype Midsize Wagon Revealed

Mike Spinelli — Fri, 22 Sep 2006 08:22:35 EDT

The rest of Ford's official Mondeo concept shots came down the pike last night, showing the company's proto-Mondeo in Paris-ready trim. It's the first production model to use Ford's new "kinetic design" language, introduced in the Iosis concept last year at the Frankfurt show, which designers say uses styling cues to express a car's driving dynamics. Ford says the road-ready version will come with a range of enginery, including a 1.6-liter Duratec, 2.5-liter turbo five and two diesels (1.8 liter and 2.0 liter). Ford's also touting a human-machine interface dealie that combines entertainment and nav functions (think iDrive with multiple knobs). Click through for more pics.

What Hath Iosis Wrought: Mondeo Wagon Concept for Paris

Mike Spinelli — Thu, 21 Sep 2006 09:19:02 EDT

A year ago, Ford unveiled the Iosis concept, which designers said would set the pick for the company's European styling direction. Next week in Paris, Ford's planning to show off the car most heavily influenced by the Iosis, that is, the redesigned Mondeo midsize sedan. This shot of a wagon version, which hit the intersplice sometime in the past 12 hours, likely portrays a proto-Mondeo show car, which shares similarities with the Galaxy and S-Max minivans that were Ford's pride of Geneva for the past two years. Now if only they'd stop designing US models around the sensibilities of our puritan countrymen.

Paris preview: Ford Mondeo Concept [Motor Authority]