A wide choice including 1.6, 1.8, 2.0 and 2.5 V6 petrols and a 1.8 turbo-diesel. Best choices are the 1.8 and 2.0 petrols. They’re quite efficient and give good performance. The 1.6 is a bit underpowered and the 2.5 is pricier to run (but gives a smooth drive). 1.8 TD is very old-fashioned, only consider it if you must have a diesel.

Even against more modern cars, Mondeo impresses with sharp steering and a good gearchange. It’s rewarding to drive, poised and precise. It inspires confidence – especially the much-revised models from 1996. The ride is decent over all but the roughest surfaces. Si and Ghia are offered with four-wheel-drive.