Although the crash test experts at Euro NCAP have yet to publish their Ford Mondeo saloon safety findings, the company expects a five star car when they do.

Underneath Mondeo’s bodywork is a lighter yet stronger crash structure, which should ultimately protect the car’s occupants better in the event of an accident. Airbags all-round will further cushion them, while outside LED tail lights and a pedestrian detection system with automatic braking enhances safety for pedestrians and other road users.

We’ve not given the car a five star rating though primarily because much of the safety equipment is optional, Ford missing an opportunity to set new standards for class safety.

On the Mondeo saloon options list are those inflatable rear airbags, adaptive cruise control, blind spot warning system and even emergency city braking. Lane departure warning is standard though, while the X Pack comes with dynamic LED headlights as standard, shining the light beam towards the corners. LED day running lights also come as part of that package.

Although it’s a large car, there’s no doubt that Ford Mondeo saloon practicality is limited by a combination of its four-door shape and hybrid battery pack under the boot floor.

Due to the battery pack’s installation, the rear seats don’t fold over, limiting the Mondeo saloon’s overall carrying capacity to 525 litres. The non-hybrid Vauxhall Insignia (500 litres) can’t match it, but the VW Passat (586 litres) beats it, while the smaller Toyota Prius hybrid (445 litres) is significantly smaller but does benefit from a hatchback tailgate.

That under-boot battery pack also precludes the fitting of a spare tyre – all other Mondeos come with a space saver as standard, the hybrid saloon comes with a puncture repair kit.

Although the boot’s disappointing, many will find the Mondeo saloon’s interior spacious, providing ample leg and shoulder room for five adults. While that tapering, coupe-like profile might lend the Mondeo’s styling a degree of elegance, there’s no escaping that it robs rear-seat headroom, predominantly to the discomfort of taller passengers.

Those in the front get an even better deal, with enveloping and supportive sports seats, offering a wide range of adjustment to ensure optimum comfort.