• Competitive performance for the size of car
• 110hp petrol underpowered
• Top 2.0-litre EcoBoost offers 240hp

Ford Mondeo Mk4 performance is on par with most contemporary used cars in this class, though the third generation Mondeo is a bit bigger than the traditional five-door large family hatchback. Early models feature a broad range of petrol engines from a 1.6-litre with either 110hp or 125hp, a 2.0-litre with 145hp, a 160hp 2.3-litre and a rare 220hp turbocharged 2.5-litre.

Diesel models – by far the best sellers – include a 1.8 TDCi with 125hp and a 2.0-litre TDCi with 130hp or 140hp. The 2.0-litre TDCi diesel is a great all-rounder that if maintained well, can consistently return over 40mpg and approach 50mpg on motorway runs.

There are two low-CO2 band ECOnetic models. Adding a stop/start system to the 1.8 TDCi engine improves economy in down and brought emissions below 140g/km. We’d recommend the 2009-on model if you prefer this tech, though. It uses the later design of 2.0 TDCi engine, with enough torque to make 115hp useful, and returns 54mpg. 

Which Mondeo Mk4s are the fastest?

The 2.5-litre turbo petrol is good, sharing a characterful five-cylinder engine with the Focus ST, Kuga and S-Max. It’s rare, however, so if you want strong in-gear pace the 2.2 TDCi is the easiest option. It produces 175hp and as a result is only a second slower from 0-62mph than the 2.5T, but on the move feels just as rapid and refined.

In 2010 Ford added two new engines to its line-up – a new 240hp version of the 2.0-litre turbo petrol EcoBoost engine and an upgraded 200hp 2.2-litre TDCi diesel. The 200hp 2.2-litre TDCi Duratorq diesel engine with a six-speed manual gearbox is refined with plenty of shove, it’s also available with the more reliable Durashift automatic. From the top-end Mondeos you can expect 0-62 times between 7.9 and 8.1 seconds, and top speeds over 140mph meaning relaxed motorway gearing.

Ford Mondeo Mk4 handling

• Impressive handling for size and price
• Relaxed motorway feel
• Rare optional adaptive dampers

All recent Fords have been superb to drive – a trait which the new Mondeo continues. It’s a good compromise between a sporty and comfortable set-up.

On twistier roads it corners superbly with excellent steering, little bodyroll and plenty of grip, while on the motorway it cruises serenely.

It’s also possible to find cars with adaptive suspension. At the push of a button, you can change the suspension from ‘Normal’ to ‘Comfort’ or ‘Sport’. In practice, the standard set-up will be ideal for most drivers, so you’re better off saving your money. However, if you want to drive enthusiastically, switch to Sport mode and the car becomes a little more responsive and the steering weights-up a little. Look for Vignale or Ghia trims to stand the best chance of getting this rare option.