Ford Mondeo Diesel (MB) upgraded

By Alborz Fallah | May 10th, 2010

Ford Australia has today announced the upgraded Ford Mondeo Diesel. The MB Mondeo is equipped with the blue oval’s latest diesel powertrain, which delivers more power and torque whilst using less fuel.

The upgraded Mondeo will be powered by the new 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine that achieves fuel economy figures of 5.9L/100km, 0.1L/100km better than the Toyota Camry Hybrid. This means Ford beats the Prius for outright fuel economy with the Fiesta Econetic and now beats the Camry hybrid as well.

The 2.0-litre delivers a very impressive 120kW of power (16% more than its predecessor) and 340Nm of torque (six percent more) and is mated to the Getrag built PowerShift six-speed dual-clutch transmission system (used in numerous diesels).

The combination of a six-speed dual-clutch smooth shifting automatic gearbox with an impressive diesel engine will mean strong competition for Japanese cars such as the Mazda6 diesel and Toyota Camry Hybrid.

“Ford Australia is set to introduce a variety of new models, technologies and innovations over the next 12-18 months, further strengthening our product portfolio and delivering affordable, state-of-the-art features focused on fuel economy, safety, driver comfort and convenience,” said Ford Australia Vice President Marketing, Sales & Service, Beth Donovan.

Ford Australia is also taking Mondeo diesels seriously with the introduction of four new diesel models – LX TDCi hatch, LX TDCi wagon, Zetec TDCi wagon and Titanium TDCi wagon.

“The new powertrain not only delivers significant reductions in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions compared to the prior generation engine, but at the same time generates more power and improved high-torque performance.” Ms Donovan said.

The 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engine showcases the latest technological innovations from Ford, the major changes to the engine include:

Next-generation combustion system design with a lower compression ratio, increased combustion chamber diameter and reduced swirl
New higher-pressure common-rail fuel injection systems with advanced multi-hole injectors
Smaller, low-inertia variable-geometry turbochargers

From the inside airducts will now be standard on Zetec models (previously only on Titanium variants) and from the outside the new Mondeo will gain roof rails standard on all wagon variants with the ones on LX variants finished in black (Silver finish on on Zetec and Titanium).

“There has been a growing acceptance of diesel technology within the Medium car segment over the past few years and Mondeo has played a key part in that evolution, with diesel-powered models now accounting for more than half of all Mondeos sold,” Ms Donovan said.

The Ford Mondeo Diesel is expected to go on sale early in the third quarter with diesel engines available across the entire range and bodystyles.

2010 MB Mondeo – Manufacturer’s List Price*

	Price ($)
*Hatch*
LX	30,540
LX TDCi	34,540	New model
Zetec	35,740
Zetec TDCi	39,240
Titanium	42,740
Titanium TDCi	46,240
*Wagon*
LX	32,390
LX TDCi	36,390	New model
Zetec	37,240
Zetec TDCi	40,740	New model
Titanium TDCi	47,740	New model

	Current MB Mondeo TDCi	New MB Mondeo TDCi
Fuel Economy & Engine Performance	All variants	LX hatch	LX wagon, Zetec & Titanium
ADR 81/02 combined cycle (L/100km)	7.3	5.9	6.2
CO₂ emissions (g/km)	193	157	165
Max. Power (kW)	103	120	120
Max. Torque (Nm)	320	340	340

Vibe

“fuel economy figures of 5.9L/100km, 0.1L/100km better than the Toyota Camry Hybrid. This means Ford beats the Prius for outright fuel economy with the Fiesta Econetic and now beats the Camry hybrid as well.”

There goes Toyota’s marketing campaign!

Camry lover

But, the Toyota is still more environmentally-friendly as it does not emit the heinous emissions that diesels do.

My Toyota dealer said diesels have no future as they will not meet future European emissions standards.

If you want green motoring, Toyota hybrids are the way to go.

Dennis

Camry Lover,

Euro 6 is not until 2014. So that’s another 3 years of selling Euro 5 diesels.

Current Diesels should be Euro 6 compliant with the AdBlue additive.

tekkyy

emission tests (like crash tests) simulate very specific situations
the manufacturers simply beat it

diesels should stay around for a while
Camry lover

Denis, I should have stated “long-term” future. What about Euro 7 and beyond?

Mad Max

So you think all those Euro diesel manufacturers that have sepent hundreds of millions of dollars developing diesel technology are just going to walk away from diesel engines? And Europeans are going to start buying petrol engines while paying substantialy more for the the fuel? Go back to your Toyota dealer and tell him to get real. Like he would know anyway. Diesel engines will meet Euro 7 and Euro 8 without a worry. Diesels with Urea technology and the next phase of particulate filters will be so much cleaner. Diesel powered hybrids are the thing of the future.

filippo

So I guess your Toyota dealer told you that Prados and Landcruisers will no longer come with diesel engines? How about the diesel Yaris, Auris (Corolla), Urbancruiser and Avensis available in Europe? Are they to be discontinued as well? Or could it be that he was just trying to sell you something?
The Oracle

I reckon you are just stirring the pot and seeing what reaction you can get. Or maybe, you really are that silly!
JP

So, you are trusting the dealership that sells the Camry Hybrid, who will always tell you what you want to hear, and that their product is better than the competition???

I’ve been to a toyota dealership who tried to tell me the Corrolla was a hot hatch, and in the class of the 3MPS, XR5, Golf GTI etc…

Camry lover

The Corolla is a “hot hatch” in Levin trims.

The previous model even offered a Sportivo variant.

Nath746

Toyota Corolla is NOT a hot-hatch… It only just gets 100kW from its 1.8 litre engine and 175Nm of Torque… A Hot hatch has lots of power and lots of torque but is in a small car. The Corolla is a small car but it is NOT a hot hatch!
Abscess

It is if you set it on fire.
Dennis

Camry Brainwashed Lover,

The Levin is not a Hot Hatch…

A hot hatch model version is suppose to be quicker than the base model.

Jabba the Hut

Toyota’s “green” dribble fails to mention the power use and pollution in making those batteries and the major issue of disposal. They will be contaminating some “disposal site” for many ,many years after their death.

Don’t tell half a story. I ain’t a fan of the ecotec Fiesta one bit but this car makes sense. Unlike Camry lover!

Camry lover

Toyota ensures that all hybrid vehicles are manufactured to the highest environmental standards.

See the Toyota website for more details.

Nath746

Camry lover,

Are you just someone who works for marketing at toyota? the Ford Clearly uses less fuel than the Camry Hybrid, and is more environmentally friendly. if you scrap a diesel powered car, you just get metal which can be recycled, if you scrap a hybrid then you end up with battery acids that can not be recycled…

Dr Batt Flattery

How about, you get off your toyota inspired cardigan and blinker wearing toyota horse and realise, they are the worst looking, most expensive (long and short term) dullest and more boring vehicles on the planet.

The Battery manufacturing process for the ‘Hydrid’ system creates the equivilant pollution of running a V12 Aston Martin for 5 years…..

So jump back into your Toyota dealership, all sit round the walking frame parking zone, and have a cup of tea.

Smithy

How I wish I had thought up that name. LOL.

Simon

With the perky engine and powershift gearbox it’s going to steal lots of sales from mazda’s diesel 6.

tekkyy

yeah powershift is the unique attraction against the competition

5.9L is of course excellent for a large car
though as a diesel the figure is not a show stopper

Andrew M

As a diesel figure it IS still a show stopper.

5.9L is on par with the much smaller Focus diesel.
It is also 1L less than the smaller Cruze diesel.

Its is even 1L less than the small buzz box vehicles like Yaris and Fiesta.

Look how much more car you get for the economy.

This is on par economy wise with BMWs offerings…..and thats saying something

Able

Finally the wagon is available in diesel, high-specs and roof rails! Now I’d like a manual please…or the 2.2TDCi

TonyB

Agree Able on all points – especially having the wagon available in top spec. And what did happen to the 2.2l diesel?

Devil’s Advocate

It is not as if PSA (Pegueot, Citroen and Ford Europe) don’t have a 2.2L diesel that would bolt straight in. I would actually like to see how well the Mondeo would go if had the Mazda 2.2L diesel mated with that DSG gearbox. Or that gearbox in the Mazda. Either/or!!!

Rhys

Why would Ford use a PSA 2.2L when they have there own modern 2.2L?

Devil’s Advocate

Because Ford is a major partner in the development of PSA’s later diesel engines. Plus the 2L diesel in the Focus and Mondeo is and always has been a PSA engine that shares very little other than maybe some ancillaries etc with the 2L Mazda MZR-CD that was in the previous Mazda6/3.

The 2.2L in the Mazda6/3 is also a Mazda engine that has very little to do with Ford as well. So in other-words, the PSA 2.2L is Ford’s own modern diesel that was developed in collaboration with Peugeot and Citroen. Confusing isn’t it!

Simon

Going against popular sentiment sounds like you want the mazda 6 because it is manual only, also comes with great drive and dynamics.

Andrew M

Thats a massive gain…..

5.9L is 25% better than previous. Thats massive!!! Normally we only see these gains when they add an electric motor (hybrids).

Ford are really going after beating Toyotas economy on Equivalent models.
Jon

Why no manual when European Ford sells more manual car than auto?

Able

Unfortunately this isn’t Ford Europe, so we’re all deemed to be lazy

Camry lover

No, that’s just derogatory.

The correct reason is safety: automatics are safer as they do not role back on hills and stall.

John of Perth

Camrylover

you are sprouting a lot of rubbish. Autos safer than manuals – what a lot of crock.
Truancy Officer

Your an idiot Camry Lover!

Camry lover

Please refrain from hurling offensive remarks at other users such as myself. I find that comment to be rude and highly offensive.
snerd

People, you’re bring trolled. Just Don’t Look.
Camry lover

I beg your pardon.

Mad Max

So how do they drive them in Europe? Do they have lots of accidents from roll backs? And why is a diesel engined manual worse at this than a petrol engine one? Please explain as I don’t understand…
Ray Stone

Your comments confirm why you drive a Camry. What are you doing on a car site anyhow. You’ve own a toaster with 4 wheels, except the toaster is more interesting.
Andrew M

Actually I would rate a properly driven manual as safer.

With a manual gear response is instant.
Its far easier to get the engine to help with the braking in a manual than an Auto.
Plus the driver being more involved in the driving can only keep them more alert in comparison to those driving “point and shoot” style

Sumodog

As someone who drives manual cars ( i’ve had my wagon for five years and coverted it to manual from auto) i can say that manual is great to drive, gives you connection and control and rewards skill.
For people who don’t enjoy driving and struggle to keep within marked lane let alone enjoy advanced cornering automatic is obviously a safer choice.
They can do they make up while they are talking on the phone and eating their morningcereal. Try that in manual tranny car …
Camry lover

Exactly Sumodog, at least you have some sense.

This list highlights the inherent safety benefits of an automatic transmission. While driving, I have to:
* Manoeuvre though the torturous city roads

* Watch out for erratic truck drivers

* Watch out for erratic provisional license holders

* Watch out for small children and animals

* Constantly keep an eye on the speedometer to ensure that I don’t break the law

* Occasionally keep an eye on the fuel consumption readout to ensure that I am being socially responsible with my fuel usage

* Constantly scan for red and orange traffic lights to ensure I have enough time to stop

Now having to change gears for myself is just another distraction that could be potentially dangerous and lead to a crash. We do not need another distraction on our roads.

I have had one bad experience with a manual transmission so far, and that was one too many. My wife was stopped on a mild hill, and an erratic P-plater rolled back onto my wife’s beautiful, elegant and prestigious Lexus ES 300 while we were having a relaxing drive.

The rude P-plater stated that my poor wife was at fault because she did not leave enough of a gap to allow for a manual transmission to roll back, but my wife politely and correctly pointed out that engaging the parking brake would have been enough to hold the vehicle while gently accelerating off the hill, and then disengaging the park brake.

The damage caused to my wife’s automobile was not major, and thankfully the insurance company sided with our point-of-view. It’s just shocking to think how much worse that accident could have been.
Truancy Officer

Camry Lover,

By the sounds of it mate you shouldn’t even be on the road.
You sound dangerously underskilled!
Camry lover

No Truancy Officer, my wife and I are very skilled and safe drivers.

We always take care on the roads and remain courteous to other road users.

Our commitment to the speed limits just highlights our level of attention to safety.

Please explain how watching out for the above-mentioned hazards demonstrates bad skill? I would have thought the opposite.
Ray Stone

Camry Lover – a Camry and a Lexus ES300 – read V6 Camry and you have the gonads to admit this in a public forum. Mate, give it up you’re getting bashed from all sides. Bet you’ve got the box of tissues on the back shelf.
Can anyone explain how you reach those from the front seat. Maybe they just add to the beautiful, elegant and prestigious aura of the Lexus.
Andrew M

Camry dude,

Who looks at the gear stick when changing gears??

Thats what your whole argument revolves around, and it is false.

It may be even said since Automatic drivers have less to do they may become complacent.

Some of the less driver involved roads (straight stretches)are more deadly than the windy ones where the driver is a little more involved
Camry lover

Ray Stone, for the record, my wife stores the tissues in the glove compartment for ease of access.

The rear parcel shelf is for our hats.
Camry lover

Ray Stone, would you care to explain your vexation with the Hybrid Camry and the Lexus ES 300?

I believe both cars to be thoroughly excellent in all regards, and my wife and I are very proud owners.
Ray Stone

Camry Lover. You’ve had your fun today, good one. Haven’t got time to chat anymore, gotta go polish the Lada.
The Oracle

” my wife stores the tissues in the glove compartment for ease of access.
The rear parcel shelf is for our hats.

You know, I’m scared that he may be telling the truth. I think I saw them both parked at the local bowls club the other day.

Jon

Safety? Not really, I have driven a manual car for 25 years, never had any accident. Mondeo wagon is not the same size as the Falcon wagon. Ford Australia sells manual Fiesta and Focus, so why not Mondeo? I agreed what ‘Able’ said

Nath746

People who can’t drive cars with a Manual Transmission whould be stripped of their license (people with only one leg would be excepted). If you know how to drive a manual car correctly, you can do a hill start without using the handbrake and without rolling back (i know, i have done it with a 1.5 tonne trailer).

A Manual Car is actually safer than an automatic one, because if your brakes fail then you can still stop without having to use the handbrake which can be dangerous.

Kris

If the Mondeo was a slow seller previously, this should help pick things up. Finally, a decent diesel engine to get things moving a bit better, plus an excellent DSG style gearbox. The new engine/gearbox combo should definitely help Ford steal some sales away from the Mazda 6 and Hybrid Camry.

Simon

You know what? I almost find it offensive that the Hybrid Camry is compared to either the Mondeo or Mazda 6 diesels. The only comparison is in fuel consumption, and as mentioned, the Mondeo is giving it a lesson.
Both Mondeo and Mazda 6 have exceptional dynamics and personality. The Camry is a generic plastic box on wheels.
It is only Toyota’s spin department that is so successful in helping think it is anything more.
Who says they aren’t affected by marketing? The masses are proving to be gullible!

Camry lover

I also find it offensive that the Hybrid Camry is compared to the Mondeo as they are different cars.

Also, the Hybrid Camry has exceptional dynamics and personality too.

The front-end styling echos the elegant Prius, which features a unique, non-derivative design.

The larger size of the Camry compared to other mid-size rivals also gives it “personality” among its class.

Andrew M

Ill tell you what, Ive got to give you a wrap for being able to keep a straight face for so long. You have been doing this for how long now, yet still un cracked.

I gotta give it to you

The Oracle

Yes Andrew, he is either totally deluded or he would be an awesome competitor in a poker game.

Jon

I think they sell the Mondeo wagon a bit faster cos the aged Falcon wagon will be no more this year.

Muse

I’m sure it’d sell well – if it didn’t have a Ford badge on it.

Trouble

Wow don’t get me wrong Ford boys – it looks like a decent car and I hope it sells well. But there’s a huge prejudice against Ford products in this country that will not work in it’s favour.

What I’m saying is that the Focus, Fiesta should be selling twice the numbers that they are at the moment because they’re good cars. But I’m guessing the whole half-a$$ed ‘Ford’s are $hit’ mentality that people have will not be working in Ford’s favour.

Can you imagine how these cars would sell if they had a Holden badge on them? Or a Hyundai badge? or BMW?

lm

it would be nice to see this updated engine in the ford focus tdci powershift

Simon

Amen brother (or sister)!

For that matter, an AWD focus with these goodies. Get them torqs to the tarmac in a hurry

http://www.caradvice.com.au Jim Goose senior

Since Australia is much less populated than Europe,and has less conjested roads(outside the cities),you’d think more manuals would sell here. The Mondeo wagon is an attractive beast though,certainly an improvement on what its replacing! I wish they were built here. The diesel is a good idea,but a manual is also required.

Simon

Most Aussies live and commute in cities. It’s still a cultural thing, most people like a easy drive, even those that love their driving are happy for a good auto in the peak hour grind. It a trade off if you can’t afford a separate driver’s car.

Duck

No manual for mondeo
No auto for mazda6
UM… interesting

cfc

Makes the decision between the two easy then…
mmmm

when mazda get their new sky diesels and skydrive (auto) out next year I’ll bet they switch to auto only in the diesel wagon, maybe the hatch too though they could keep the manual hatch for a ‘sports’ diesel.
Jon

I think Ford and Mazda hate each others!

Holden man

All you people whinging about it not having a manual….. the “powershift” gearbox is virtually like a manual (as it has no torque convertor) anyway with much faster shifting and i suppose its sportier than a auto.

Having driving a EVOX with the twin clutch (SST) gearbox as well as a few VW’s with there DSG, i reckon the new dual clutch gearboxes are the best of both worlds….sportiness of a manual with the ease of use like a auto as long as they can iron out the shift harshness when trundling around town.

http://www.caradvice.com.au Jim Goose senior

Holden Man,I have no interest in Powershifts or clutchless manuals,etc. I’m oldschool and believe a car should be fully auto,or standard manual. To my knowledge the market has never asked for these other silly gearbox setups. So why are we getting them? Seriously,nobody I’ve ever spoken to even know how they work,let alone want them in their cars. Theres nothing quite like a standard 5-speed on a winding,hilly country road………

Camry lover

Hello Jim Goose Snr, could you elaborate on why direct-shift transmissions are “silly”?

I don’t like manual transmission as they are difficult to drive and are very unsafe, but direct-shift transmissions have an advantage in performance automobiles in the sense that they match the performance advantages of a standard manual, but offer the ease-of-use, safety and comfort of an automatic transmission.

I have not driven a high-performance sports car with a direct-shift transmissions (like the Volkswagen Golf GTI), but are the direct-shift transmissions much different to operate than a standard automatic?

Devil’s Advocate

How are manuals unsafe? They provide much better engine braking than automatics and give you much more accurate throttle control/response etc. If manuals were so bad then why do race cars have them? If your excuse was like above where they could “role [sic] back on hills and stall” then that is a driver incompetence issue and nothing to do with the car being a manual. Given a steep enough hill an automatic would roll back as well…

Mad Max

Agreed 100% DA. CAMRYLOVER is just an incompetent driver.
Camry lover

Devil’s Advocate, thank you for pointing out my shocking attention to grammar in that post.

Using “role” as opposed to “roll” in that context is almost unforgivable considering my level of education, but I will admit it was late at night and I did not bother to proof-read my post.

If an administrator could amend that error for me, that would be of great appreciation.
Camry lover

However, your comment regarding my driving incompetence was rude and offensive at the least. Please refrain from making personal attacks on this community-oriented site. Everyone is entitled to his or her opinion, but a line must be drawn at personal attacks.

Cyber-bullying is a major problem, so please do your part to ensure everyone can have an enjoyable time while reading Car Advice.
Devil’s Advocate

I am sorry if you took offence Camry Lover however I didn’t say you personally were incompetent. A driving test is competency based assessment and includes a “hill start” as part of the criteria. If you can not conduct a hill start then you are “not yet competent” in that assessment criteria and could fail your driving test. It is a basic component of the skills required to drive a car safely ie throttle/brake/handbrake/clutch control that has an application in more than just a hill start. If you can drive a manual properly then you will not stall or roll back, millions of people the world over have managed to do that. (Just like the millions that can’t!!)

It is the driver that makes the manual “unsafe”, not the transmission. If a person can’t do something properly, like hill start a manual without rolling back and/or stalling, then they are “not yet competent” at that task ie incompetent, just like I am incompetent at making a sponge cake. I am sure that with practice and the correct tuition that incompetence can turn into competence…
Camry lover

Devil’s Advocate, I appreciate your courtesy and thank you for your apology.

You are correct in stating, “It is the driver that makes the manual “unsafe”, not the transmission”.

However, many drivers of manual transmission vehicles do not have the skills required to maintain a steady hill start.

The requirement may be in the driving test, but that only applies while to a provisional license holder. Once they have progressed to a full license, they are free to drive a manual transmission vehicle regardless if they actually possess the skills required to do so.

That is why feel manuals can be unsafe. If the driver has been taught the skills necessary, then they are completely safe, but I have seen too many near misses based on people driving a vehicle beyond their level of driver training.
Jon

Completely agreed with DA. My car is manual, can still on hills and move up easily without probs. Auto car is not!

Andrew M

Actually I would rate a properly driven manual as safer.

With a manual gear response is instant.
Its far easier to get the engine to help with the braking in a manual than an Auto.
Plus the driver being more involved in the driving can only keep them more alert in comparison to those driving “point and shoot” style.

Hill starts are also part of an Automatic driving licence test proving as devil says, it is possible to roll back in an auto

http://www.caradvice.com.au Jim Goose

Another advantage for manuals-they help to keep (most) drivers of the phone! In city traffic,I could never(and havn’t tried) juggle a phone in one hand with the gearknob in the other whilst steering the car with my knee. In autos however you could probably just get by….but your focus is still largely where it shouldn’t be.

Kieran

Camry Lover, what sort of bullsh*t have you been fed? Manual transmissions are unsafe, are they? I’m sorry, but ALL cars roll back on steep enough hills. Now, I’m not going to say that either is safer than the other, but to say that a manual isn’t safe because of rollback on hills is just ridiculous; that’s what your handbrake is for! Stop undermining people’s intelligence. Manual transmissions are not hard to use properly, and they’re easier to fix if something goes wrong. Furthermore, the famous “runaway Toyotas” wouldn’t have been a problem in a manual – just put the clutch in and coast to a stop. And if you don’t have the co-ordination to hill-start properly, use your handbrake.

Nath746

One of my close friends has a 7 year old son who drives his old ute around the paddock most days. He is ver good, and would trust him driving my car around the small dirt roads near his paddock.
This young boy is able to do what many other drivers on our roads these days are not. He can do a hill start (his ute is an old Falcon ute, with the 4.1L carby engine and a manual transmission) without rolling back and without using the hand brake (yes, this is normal for someone who has got a full licence and has been driving for a few years, but for a 7 year old boy…)
Do you, Camry Lover, rate your driving skills lower than this 7 year old boy?
I asked him the other day if he wanted another car as his falcon is getting a bit unreliable and rusted – some days it doesn’t start and won’t start. I have got a small collection of old cars in my paddock (about 7 or 8). Most run well, but others are just for parts. I asked him if he wanted one of the cars, which was an automatic. To which he replied “Automatics are for lazy people”.

Nath746

MANUALS ARE NOT UNSAFE, THEY ARE SAFER THAN AN AUTOMATIC!!! if your brakes fail in your automatic car, you can not stop unless you use the handbrake (which is dangerous). In your manual car you can stop with the gears and the clutch. If i see you driving your silly automatic car and your brakes fail, im going to laugh at you from my manual car!

Sumodog

Not really .Computer controlled clutch manuals are manuals for people who really wanted auto in the first place. Even though they are mechanically a manual tranny they are really an auto. No clutch = no skill required.
lazybones

“the “powershift” gearbox is virtually like a manual” Yeah like silicon implants are virtually the real thing. Give me a stick and a cluch any day of the week. you can keep the electronic nanny shift.

Jon

Yeah, but it is still automatic, not manual cos it has 2 pedals, not 3.

Joe

In Europe Ford have a range of diesel engines available for the Mondeo from 1.8 litre to 2.2 litre. Ford Australia,in the end, must have decided that having this new Super-economy(Econetic?) 2.0 litre diesel was worth more from a marketing perspective than having the Super-torquey 2.2 litre diesel would have been.

This Hybrid-beating fuel economy is fantastic and I\’m sure that the 6 speed Powershift Dual Clutch gearbox works a treat but that 400+ nm of torque would have been nice.

Where does this leave the Petrol-Hybrid engine right now? If a conventional state of the art Turbo Diesel motor mated to an equally state of the art Dual Clutch gearbox can offer hybrid equaling economy with better driving characteristics and lower costs(and the ability to tow) what now for Petrol-Hybrid technology and marketing?
Bob

Having just driven a current TDCi Mondeo with conventional 6-speed auto, I was absolutely blown away by the economy of the car and especially the performance. The owner has done 3,400km so far, with an average speed of 48km/h and long-term average fuel economy of 7.1L/100km which is a very impressive number in my books.

If the new one’s 25% more economical, or even 20%, then the 5.9L/100km average looks well and truly real-world possible and even more impressive. Can’t wait to read a drive review!!
Shak

Now i can see the reasoning behind dropping the Falcon wagon.If the euro import can offer all this, the Falcon wagon really has no purpose. Good on you Ford
ohsotorque_

I recently went around to all the major car manufacturers and requested a brochure of their medium/large cars.

I received a few manufacturers brochures (Toyota, Nissan, VW) within 2 days, and most of the others came within a week (Mazda, Subaru, Mitsubishi, Holden, Hyundai, BMW, Audi).

However Ford was the only one to take 2 months to send a simple brochure. Wtf?

I could’ve bought a car and finished the 1k free service in that time, not good enough Ford.

Radbloke

You know about this wonderful new invention called the internet, right? It can be used to do many things, including printing vehicle brochures from the manufacturers website.

Shak

You cant actually do that anymore. They just offer you an E-brochure that has half of the information.2 months is way too much.

Andrew M

I agree,
Internet brochures are no excuse, and 2 months is ridiculous.

Ford has a shocking sales department, and its no wonder they are struggling to attract a new genre of customers.
I could list similar “slack” traits of Ford sales people over the years, but I have stuck it out because I believe in their product.

On the flip side though, I have found a very good Service centre.

But yeah, their sales people have no idea what they are selling

Camry lover

Andrew, I have heard similar stories of Ford’s service. For that reason among others (such as reliability), I am to scared to buy anything but a Toyota or Lexus.

Most Australians would share this opinion, as Toyota sells more automobiles than any other automaker.
ohsotorque_

There’s a few reasons why I request mail brochures. Primarily because it gives a comprehensive overview of every aspect of the vehicle, with significant more detail than a summed up e-brochure (which KIA only provides).

Also I like to assess every company’s marketing and the effort they spent into designing these brochures which is reflective of their product, likewise the cover letter from the Marketing Director of Australia of every brand gives me an indication of the people who represents these manufacturers.

For example, the Audi & BMW brochures were stunning. You can tell from the brochures alone that their product stood out a mile. Their brochures were incredibly thick, more like books (Audi’s had 102 pages).

As well as 3-5 days after I received most of my brochures, most manufacturers customer service department would give me a ring and ask if I had received the brochures and inquired whether I would like a test drive or any other form of assistance.

Ford was the ONLY standout from this and I was very surprised. They’ll probably take the effort to call me in another 2 months time, ridiculous.
Andrew M

Ha ha ha ha ha ha

Ok Ill feed you one since you are being a good sport…..
Here goes….

But Oh wait Camry dude, you must be forgetting Toyotas problems with sticking throttles and failing brakes!!!
Oh my god thats terrible!!!!

blah blah blah, Toyota is no better if not worse, blah blah blah.

Hows that for a stirring reply??

Joe5619

Each to their own experience I guess… I recently bought my first Ford product in Dec09 & could not be happier with my entire new car buying experience with Ford.. The whole process with top class customer service from Ford!!! Much better that any other new car I have bought from other makes…

Camry lover

Joe, it’s good to hear a positive story about Ford customer service for once.

Ford must be in the process of revamping their customer service.

Andrew M

You have to teach me that pretend like you care trick sometime Camry dude

Camry lover

Hello Andrew M, for the record my screen name is “Camry lover”. I would never use the screen name “Camry dude” as it is too colloquial for my tastes.

If you could give me some courtesy by referring to me by my desired scree name, that would be appreciated.

Moreover, where did you get your deranged “pretend like you care” philosophy? I was simply pointing out that Ford is possibly “revamping their customer service” amid the criticism that they have received.

I thought that was a pleasant anecdote as Ford has been getting a lot of negative press lately, and as an Australian automaker, it would be terrible if jobs were lost due to their local manufacturing demise.
Andrew M

Ok Camry Dude, I will call your name properly now.

Oh damn it, I did it again. Oh well Ill try to remember next time
Chinese driver

Andrew, I do not find you amusing at all.

Hung Low

Well twice I requested ones from Holden that I never received!

laurie

hmm so Ford doesn’t want the Mondeo to have the Turbocharge petrol engine [ 150Kw ] that’s going into the Falcon next year scared it will steal sales from the Falcon?

laurie

Long Live the Load lugger

At last a load lugger story,

Mondeo has got the 2.0l Ecoboost (in Europe)which is going into the mighty “star fire” Falcon, Aus should see it early next year (Falcon First, then Mondeo in March)

The Oracle

I’m suprised that none of the Hyundai/Kia fanboys have popped up and lectured everyone on how much better the R series diesel is. Do you think they are hiding because of the higher fuel consumption their beloved R series has compared to other 2L turbo-diesels?
Poison Eagle

I am not a Korean fanboy of any kind, and I can see that the R series IS ahead of the competition in power delivery, economy only suffers marginally because of the heavier weight of Santa Fe/ ix35, give credit where credit is due- Ford should be at least matching their figures. If Ford has lower RPM peak/more torque than I stand corrected. As for the Camry hybrid; where are the batteries sourced from? The manufacturing process and ridiculous half-life would more than offset the sooty diesel emissions (which are still quite bad truth be told). Bring on a Flex fuel HCCI PHEV and I’ll get on board.

The Oracle

Check the real world economy conmpared to similar vehicles, such as Tiguan, X-Trail, Koleos, CX7 and so on. The R series powered vehicles have better acceleration, but the economy suffers, quite a bit. It must be the tuning/boost that Hyundai give the engine. Perhaps other manufactures don’t boost/stress the engine to the same degree in the interest of economy, emmissions and durability. Time will tell. I wasn’t specifically meaning to compare an AWD SUV with a sedan/wagon, just commenting on the results achieved in the applications it has been used for to date.

I’m not sure if I would like to drive a FWD Hyundai with all that torque from the R series. With the third class engineering of Hyundai’s suspension tuning, the thing would change lane everytime you stepped on the pedal. It would surely give the traction/stability control a busy time!

Camry lover

Don’t be fooled by the stereotypes.

Front-wheel drive is an excellent layout as it is much safer in the wet.

Rear-wheel drive is the domain of professionals as it can easily fish-tail out of control.

The Oracle

Yeah, right. Do you make this up or are you just gullible?
Why is FWD safer in the wet and why do you say the RWD can “easily fish tail out of control”? Only an incompetent driver who has experienced this through their own lack of skill would say this. You must be speaking from personal experience of losing control.

Also, please enlighten us as to the definition of a “professional” driver and why they only should drive RWD cars. Does this apply to ALL RWD cars ever made? RWD cars have had many features to prevent skids for years, starting with LSDs for the last 50 years or more through to traction and stability control. I know Toyotas are not as safe as other makes, but I believe that you can get these features on many of their cars too. They just don’t work very well on them, because of the poor engineering of current Toyotas.

Camry lover

Hello, it is a well known fact that front-wheel drive has better traction in the wet and snow (granted, the latter is not widespread in Australia).

In previous years, when all cars were rear-wheel drive, too much throttle response could cause the rear wheels to slide slightly from left-to-right (only by a couple of centimetres). When Toyota began their transition to front-wheel drive I was a little skeptical as I had heard that it was an inferior layout to rear-wheel drive. However, when it was pointed out to me that front-wheel drive significantly reduces wet weather traction issues, I was “converted” to front-wheel drive straight away.

With modern-day vehicles fitted with traction and stability controls, the wet weather issues of rear-wheel drive are less of an issue. But the problem is still attainable by those irrational individuals that must turn these vital safety aids off.

A modern-day rear-wheel drive Lexus or Mercedes-Benz with traction and stability controls are very safe, but those older cars without such features should not be driven by non-professionals in the wet.

Also, if a rear-wheel drive vehicle is driven too fast around a corner, then a fish tail can be induced and a horrific crash could be the result. This is the result of oversteer, which is not very forgiving for the non-professional driver with the advanced skills required to regain control. A front-wheel drive car is no where near as affected by this oversteer, and is therefore safer.

Now, many may ask, “why would anybody be driving too fast around a corner?” Well, my answer would be that they shouldn’t, but it still happens anyway. Additionally, sensible drivers may also be needing to suddenly swerve to avoid a collision, and the rear-wheel drive oversteer could cause the driver to have an accident anyway.
The Oracle

So Camry Dude,
Thanks for the lecture on driving dynamics. However, I think all of your points are very doubtful. How about quoting some independent references for your statements.

I liked your one about rear wheels sliding from side to side, but you know what CD, the side to side wiggle has happened to me most often when driving a FWD car. Have you ever heard of torque steer? The worst offender that I have driven in recent years has been a Toyota Aurion.

Yes, a V6 Camry!! And that is with moderate acceleration on a dry road and don’t try to tell me otherwise CD, you weren’t there!

But we all know about how poor the suspension tuning and dynamics are witn modern Toyotas. They have been shown in numerous recent cases to be inferior and unsafe.
Camry lover

A Carsales reference supports my thesis.

Car Advice does not allow URLs to be posted, but if one was to do a Google search for:

“”Driving Wheels – Front, Rear or All-Wheel Drive?” carsales”

Then you should find the article I am referrring to. The author is Joe Kenwright.
The Oracle

Camry Dude,
I read it and there is nothing to say that FWD is inherently superior method of drive. He lists the pros and cons of each, including AWD.

Anyway, I’m bored with your nonsense. Catch you later.

crap on camry

hey camry dude, i’ve been having a good laugh reading your comments, keep it up. we have just bought a mondeo zetec hatch petrol and love it. lucky its an auto , take to long to get anywhere if you roll backwards down every hill.

Andrew M

Yes, emissions wise Diesels still do have a little way to go, I say bring on the LPG which is something in the order of 90% less particulates etc.

At least diesels give good drivability though I suppose, and are much cheaper to run than Hybrids

In my view, LPG still beats them all, and the funny thing is it costs the least to develop/produce. This Hybrid tech for eg costs an absolute arm and leg to even come up with a drive train concept
Damian

Yeah, I’ve heard some of these Korean advocates claim that their diesels are even better than the premium Euro offerings of the same displacement, from the likes of BMW and Audi. Somehow, I doubt the real world validity of such far-fetched claims.

svd

LPG engines do not achieve the economy figures of a diesel since the engine must operate within a range of airfuel ratios that allow ignition from a sparkplug and not so slow burning that the charge is still burning going out the exhaust. On the other hand a diesel is assured of combustion as the compression ignites the fuel so it can be as lean as you like.
Does anyone know what conditions are placed on the running of the engine when a hybrid powered vehicle is subject to an ADR fuel consumption test? I seems to me that the hybrid would actually cheat this test in part as the battery would be fully charged and the test is of relatively short duration.

Andrew M

True that LPG vehicles do have higher consumption, but its countered by lower price and cleaner emissions.

Running costs will still be lower in an LPG vehicle

The Oracle

I firmly believe that the economics of diesel cars don’t stack up. The lower consumption takes too many years to payback the extra fuel cost and the higher initial purchase price.
However, one of these 18-24 months old would be well worth considering. By all accounts they are a fine drive, roomy, well made and equipped and have a durable and gutsy engine. I’m happy to let someone else pay for the depreciation, while I pick up a near new car, with warranty, at a substantial discount. Then I could take advantage of the fuel economy. My work means that I do a lot of driving and with my car allowance paying the bills, it might then be financially attractive. I will probably be looking for a new car mid next year, so this is one that will be on my list.

Tom

Then don’t focus on the economic benefits, focus on all the abundant torque diesel engines provide that makes overtaking an absolute breeze. The fuel efficiency is just an added bonus in my view.

The Oracle

Well I agree, let someone else pay for the extra purchase price and the depreciation and I could benefit from the driving experience and better fuel economy. As I said, I’ll do the sums when the time comes. Diesels are more attractive as a near new secnd hand car.

svd

So why are manufacturers using diesels or going to diesels and claiming they are doing so for emmissions reasons (Mitsubishi being 1 of the most recent)?

http://Pagini Luv Local

Beats me, no matter how much make up you put on a diesel, it is still a dirty fuel.

http://www.apple-i-pad.fr Ipad

The Oracle is right about “The lower consumption takes too many years to payback the extra fuel cost and the higher initial purchase price”.
Diesel is not anymore competitive .
svd

Diesel engine as an engine and disregarding the fuel produce NOx (Oxides of Nitrogen) as an emission which petrol engines also emit. To overcome this some exhaust gases are channeled back into the engine to lower the combustion temperatures. Because a diesel engine is more fuel efficient there is a lower overall NOx value than that from an equivalent Petrol engine. Soot from a diesel is burnt off in the particulate filter in the same manner as the emmisions from a petrol engines catylitic convertor.
If diesel engines emit higher emissions it is because of impurities in the fuel and not the engine itself. This is based on the fact that when LPG is converted to diesel fuel as distinct from supplementary gas supply, these engines produce very low emmissions.
Reklaw

I’m interested in the new Mondeo, but like most European cars, I’m a little worried about how they will handle the hot weather. I live in the Tropics and have my doubts on their reliability. Anyone able to offer any advice about their European’s in the heat?

The new Mondeo really does tick all the boxes. We have tried everything else in the range, and nothing can compete in terms of size, comfort, mod cons and fuel efficiency. I really want it to be good up north.
TomR

We test drove a 2L Diesel Ford Mondeo station wagon. Both my wife and I were very impressed. We were keen on the Skoda, but the Mondeo is way better. Suspension was excellent. The diesel engine was a delight. So easy to use and the quick chaning gearbox gave it some character. Just need to work on the finial prices.