Introduction
First introduced back in the early 1990s, the Mondeo replaced the Sierra and was an indirect replacement for the Scorpio – two well-sized family models that established themselves on the saloon car market.
But since then the Mondeo has proven to be a more-than-capable option in the market, and in its current fourth generation guise it’s larger and more advanced than ever.
One of the largest advancements was the addition of a petrol-hybrid powertrain, which looks to improve the model’s efficiency compared to normal combustion engine options.
We try out the hybrid to see whether it can be an able replacement for the more conventional power options.
Performance
For the Hybrid, Ford pairs a naturally-aspirated 2.0-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor, which together develop 184bhp and 173Nm of torque. The powertrain includes a CVT transmission that comes with a manual mode for more control.
With that package installed, the Mondeo Hybrid can go from 0-60mph nine seconds flat and reach a top speed of 116mph. To replenish the battery, the Mondeo uses regenerative braking to recover the kinetic energy normally lost in the process.
Ride & Handling
The Mondeo is known as being a well-balanced large family car that is well-suited to the rigours of long distance driving, as well as pootling around towns. But with Ford adding extra weight with its hybrid system along with the low rolling resistance tyres, the Mondeo Hybrid doesn’t feel as sharp as its conventionally-powered siblings.
The steering feels heavier when compared to the standard Mondeo and there is much more body roll than before – meaning it can struggle for grip more often. Driver engagement is better in the regular Mondeo as it is much like other large hybrid hatchbacks.
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Interior & Equipment
As with the regular Mondeo, cabin space on the Hybrid is rather good, with plenty of storage bins and compartments throughout. Passenger room is also excellent as there is lots of head and legroom for those throughout the car.
One downside with the Mondeo Hybrid, though, is the boot. With the additional electrical equipment on board, boot space compared to the standard hatch is down by 158 litres – with the load space now measuring 383 litres. A more practical estate version of the Mondeo Hybrid is on the way though, so a more spacious package is on the way.
The Mondeo Hybrid is only offered on two of the model’s trim levels – Titanium Edition and Vignale – but both come with an impressive level of specification. On the Titanium Edition, Ford fits the Mondeo with 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights and front wipers, leather upholstery, the Sync 3 infotainment system with eight-inch touchscreen, DAB radio, satellite navigation and a series of safety assistance systems.
The Vignale option is the more premium of the two, and it comes with additional chrome detailing, active noise control, 19-inch alloy wheels, LED adaptive lights, a rear view camera and a Sony audio system.
Cost
Prices for the Mondeo Hybrid start from £28,005 – about £6,000 more than the starting price of the standard Mondeo in Zetec Edition spec. The Vignale Hybrid offering sits just below the standard Vignale option at £31,425.
Where most people will hope to make up money is with the change to a Hybrid powertrain, and Ford claims the Mondeo can achieve 58.9mpg and emit 108g/km CO2.
Verdict
The Mondeo itself is a quality option for those needing lots of space in a stylish package, but the Hybrid version just misses the mark in a few key areas. The economical difference in electrified power compared to standard combustion options isn’t that large and the overall feel of it on the move isn’t particularly inspiring. That being said, the overall practicality of the model is still good despite the loss of a significant chunk of room in the boot and there is lots of passenger room still inside.
