Can a particular car model decide a political election? Hardly, actually. Unless it's a Ford Mondeo. More specifically, its British owner, the "Mondeo Man." The term "Mondeo Man" was popularized by a phrase used by then-Labour leader Tony Blair at the Labour Party conference in October 1996.
Simply put, a “Mondeo Man” has worked hard in his life and has gradually transformed from a left-wing voter to a conservative voter. And these are the people Tony Blair chose for Labour. The classic middle class, in Germany it might be a “Passat man” or a “Touran man”. In Italy it might be a “Giulia-Giuseppe” or a “Tipo-Toni”. Why are we telling you all this? Today we are talking about the second generation of the Ford Mondeo. Ford itself considers it a facelift of the original model and calls it the Mk3. Anyway, …
Ford launched the then-new Mondeo in October 2000. At 4,75 to 4,83 metres long, it was considerably larger than its predecessor. Although the front end was inspired by the Focus, many critics felt that the overall impression was more restrained and grown-up. The two biggest weaknesses of the previous model, the limited rear legroom and the uncompetitive diesel version, were addressed by a 50 mm longer wheelbase and the new Duratorq diesel engine. However, the chassis and suspension remained unchanged, so the Mondeo lives up to its predecessor's reputation as a class-leading performer in terms of handling and drivability.
After the VW Passat (B1996) interior set the standard in 5, Ford paid close attention to the interior of the second-generation Mondeo, and was the first major manufacturer to respond to the new standard set by Volkswagen. Ford abandoned the rounded, American-style interior of the first generation and developed a more sober, refined, “Germanic” design using higher-quality materials.
This Mondeo has greatly simplified the trim levels, with 'only' the LX, Zetec, Zetec S, Ghia, Ghia X and ST trim levels available in the UK. However, a mid-cycle facelift in 2003 saw the introduction of several new trim levels. The Titanium and Titanium X are now positioned between the Zetec S and Ghia, with the ST220 above the ST.
Passive safety is a key strength of the 2000 Mondeo, as with its predecessor. With an even stronger body, Ford is introducing the so-called “Intelligent Protection System” (IPS), which uses a series of sensors to decide which combination of safety devices (conventional front passenger airbag, side airbags and curtain airbags) will be best used in a given accident.
To enhance active safety, all models are fitted with anti-lock brakes and electronic brake-force distribution, with Electronic Stability Program (ESP) available as an option. Ford's marketing at the time claimed that the Mondeo was "one of the safest cars". However, Euro NCAP tests of the Mondeo between 2000 and 2007 showed that it provided less protection than most of its main competitors.
Ford has therefore changed the design of the vehicle body. However, the above-average risk of injury to the driver's chest in a frontal collision remains even after the new crash tests, as the first and second generation Mondeo are based on the relatively outdated CDW27 platform, which is related to Mazda's GE platform, developed in the late 6s. For example, the floor assembly of the first Mazda XNUMX and the Jaguar X-Type is closely related to that of the Mondeo. Some of the same engines are also used in all models. The Mondeo is available in three body styles: The Mondeo has two versions: Notchback, Hatchback and Tourer (hatchback).
The Turnier is the best-selling version in Germany. The top model is the sporty ST220 with a 3,0-liter V6 engine with 166 kW (226 hp). This is enough to overcome the 100 km/h mark in 7,6 seconds. Every Mondeo comes with air conditioning and disc brakes on all wheels, and Ford offers a 12-year rust warranty. However, the Mondeo is not immune to corrosion.
The first major facelift was carried out in June 2003, when more than 1 parts were replaced on the exterior, interior and engine. The radiator grille and lower window line received chrome frames, the fog lights were now trapezoidal, and the side indicators were white. The taillights and exterior mirrors were also redesigned.
The interior features higher quality materials, a redesigned dashboard, and improved ride comfort and noise. The most powerful TDDi engine ever offered has been replaced by two new TDCi diesel engines. Two new engines were added in September 2004: a three-litre V6 petrol engine with 150 kW (204 hp) and a 2,2-litre diesel engine with 114 kW (155 hp).
In September 2005, further minor changes were made to the front and rear, with slightly modified taillights, clear glass side indicators and reflectors along the lower edge of the bumpers. From January 2006, a particulate filter was fitted as standard to the 2,0-litre diesel engines. Production of the second generation Mondeo ceased in Europe in March 2007 and in Vietnam towards the end of 2009.
