Ford Mondeo Hatchback (00-07) - Review

All second-generation Mondeos come with four electric windows and air conditioning as standard. The interior is roomy (rear passengers have about as much space as in the old Ford Scorpio) and the seats are comfortable. Engine noise can be a problem on the early 2.0TD models, although the TDCi diesels are much better, while sportier models with larger wheels can transmit a fair degree of road noise through the cabin. From summer 2003 top models were available with heated and ventilated front seats and heated rear seats.

A minimum of 500 litres boot space is good by today's standards and excellent for a car launched in 2000, while the hatchback can expand to a total of 1,370 litres with the rear seats folded. The Mondeo also has generous door bins and a good sized glove compartment.

The Mondeo's driving position should suit people of most sizes with a reach and height-adjustable steering wheel as well as good adjustment in the seats. The quality of the interior is generally good, although it was improved further in the summer of 2003, with the option of integrated Sony audio systems, whose gloss-black finish looked far classier than the standard Ford audio systems. The availability of 'Quickclear' heated windscreen on many models means frosty mornings needn't delay your start, either.