Ford Mondeo review (2014-2022)

Driving position

With its large central console and high window line, the Ford Mondeo’s interior feels like it almost wraps around you, giving the impression that you’re actually in a cockpit.  

The seats are also big and comfy, and although you’ll have to move them manually on entry-level cars, they’re extremely supportive.

Moving up the trims brings electrical adjustment and sports seats, which are even more supportive on long trips and twisty roads. 

Tech and features

The dashboard itself is clear and easy to understand, with all the controls laid out in a logical manner. 

Though it would be easier to adjust the cabin temperature by twisting a knob instead of repeatedly having to press a button. 

The materials used inside feel designed to last, if not as luxurious as some others, such as the Honda Accord or Mazda 6.

The good news is that rattles and squeaks will be largely absent, and the Mondeo will bear the brunt of a busy family’s life without much trouble.  

As you move up the range to Ford's ST-Line and top-spec Vignale models, some of the surfaces on the seats, steering wheel, handbrake and gear lever are swathed in leather, which increases the feel-good factor quite considerably. 

Even entry-level cars come with an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system that can mirror your smartphone using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. They also have dual-zone climate control, cruise control, and parking sensors at both ends.

Vignale versions get a 12-speaker Sony audio system as standard.  

Engines and power

As you’d expect from a car aimed at business drivers who frequently have to travel long distances, the Mondeo is tremendous on the motorway.

No matter which engine's under the bonnet, it absolutely chomps through miles, and you’ll get to the far end of your journey feeling pretty much as fresh as when you first sat down. 

Handling and ride comfort

You might expect such a comfortable long-distance machine to feel out of its depth on a twisty backroad, but it’s nothing of the sort.

The Mondeo steers well, feels genuinely nimble, and is a lot more sporty than it looks. 

Only in town do you become aware of the Mondeo’s size, as it can feel quite large in tight car parks.

Still, the parking sensors take the worry out of such moments. 

The Mondeo has this area well and truly covered. For a start, the two occupants up front get loads of space to stretch out in, and then there’s room behind them for three adults to feel perfectly comfortable. 

It’s a family car that actually fits a family.  

Boot space

Add in the massive boot, and you’d have to say that the Mondeo has it all well-sussed. 

The Mondeo’s boot is accessed through a huge hatchback (unless you choose the hybrid model, which has less space and is a saloon only).

Rear seats

The seats fold down easily, and the central ski hatch is useful for transporting longer items and rear passengers simultaneously. 

If you want something that can get close to the space the Mondeo offers, you’ll need to look at a Skoda Superb, which is almost big enough to have a game of five-a-side in, or a Vauxhall Insignia. 

Fuel economy

Given that the Mondeo is designed for long trips, it makes sense to choose the 2.0-litre diesel engine.

You should manage an average economy figure around the 60mpg mark, which is not to be sniffed at. 

If you don’t do the mileage or simply can’t stomach the thought of a diesel, the 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine is a sweet option.

It gives the Mondeo a decent spring in its step and won’t break the bank in fuel costs. 

Reliability

Servicing costs are perfectly reasonable and helped by the fact there’s a Ford dealer in most towns.

Insurance groups

Insurance is also reasonable, starting from group 15 and topping out at group 31.