Ford Mondeo among classmates / Mercedes-Benz test drives

Ford has finally managed to create a model capable of surprising. A solid engine, memorable looks, and a democratic price tag — it seems the new Mondeo is quite capable of vying for leadership in its segment.

Ford's path to recognition in the European middle class took more than a few decades. Back in 1970, the first Taunus 17M hit the roads, and in 1982, the era of the Sierra began. This model sold reasonably well through dealers but had the typical ailments of a budget car: the body quickly succumbed to corrosion, drivetrain parts wore out prematurely, and comfort left much to be desired. Even the facelifts of 1987 and 1990 could not change the Sierra's reputation in the eyes of buyers, for whom reliability and durability have always been paramount.

The first generation Mondeo, which debuted in 1993, revived the market, but the effect was short-lived. Owners again complained about corrosion, not the highest level of comfort, and mediocre engines — at least compared to the best representatives of the class.

Now, this year, a Mondeo has hit the market that experts predict will lead European sales.

What is the secret of the new Mondeo? The answer to this question was sought during a comparative test that brought together the most popular and affordable European mid-size sedans.

Alongside the Mondeo, the Audi A4, BMW 318i, Mercedes-Benz C 180, Volvo S60, and Volkswagen Passat took part in the trials.

On the outside, the refreshed Mondeo looks quite decent against the other "wallet hunters" — the plastic surgery has clearly done it good. Besides fresh lines and neat panel gaps, the increased dimensions are worth noting: length has grown to 4.73 m, and the wheelbase to 2.75 m.

Inside, the new Mondeo offers noticeably more space than its predecessor, and even more than many current classmates. In terms of cabin capacity, only the Passat can compete with it, and even then with some stretch. The Mondeo's seats are more comfortable than those of the "German," and they are positioned better from a space organization standpoint. As a result, in cabin layout, the new Mondeo is the undisputed leader of our five.

Volvo and Mercedes share third place in the "cabin arrangement" category. It is very comfortable for the driver to sit in them, but if the driver's height exceeds 180 centimeters, then rear passengers can only be sympathized with.

BMW and Audi turned out to be outsiders in this comparison: there is not enough space either in the front or in the back. The situation is partially saved by the steering column with height adjustment, which allows the driver to choose: either sit comfortably but take up a lot of space, or sit upright but compactly. In the second case, one will have to recall the sensations of truck drivers from the mid-last century and deal with knees pressing against the steering wheel. Such driving will quickly tire even the most patient.

Otherwise, BMW and Audi reached the finish without complaints. Even the trim materials, which today are subject to high demands, are chosen very successfully.

The absolute leader in interior quality is the Passat, which in this regard is not inferior to cars of a higher class. The Mondeo lags a bit — the roof pillar trim in the front can injure the heads of the driver and passengers in an accident.

In terms of cargo capacity, the Mondeo is the champion (if not counting the possibility of fuller loading with the rear seats folded): a 500-liter trunk and a maximum payload of 479 kg. It is followed by the VW, whose trunk holds 475 liters (800 liters with the rear row folded), and a payload of 560 kg. The A4 carries 445 liters (720 liters) and 550 kg, the Volvo — 424 liters (1034 liters) and 542 kg, the Mercedes — 480 liters and 455 kg, and the BMW — 440 liters and 500 kg. If you tally the results in the "workhorse" category, it turns out: the Mondeo, being the most spacious, is the weakest in payload. The Passat, for example, can take 81 kg more.

The first impressions from driving all the cars turned out to be completely different. The cars differ not only externally or in the design of the driver's seat — they have completely different engine characters.

Of the six participants, two are well known to Europeans, while the Audi, VW, Volvo, and Ford Mondeo are newcomers to most. To avoid offending anyone, let's consider them in alphabetical order.

The Audi A4 shows the best dynamics and the highest top speed. The new two-liter engine delivers a solid 130 hp and an impressive 195 N·m for such a displacement. The engine, which replaced the not-so-successful 1.8-liter (125 hp), has become noticeably better: no dips or extraneous noises that plagued its predecessor. At high revs, it runs smoothly and does not choke. Among all those tested, this engine makes the most pleasant impression, although in fuel economy it yields to the Mondeo and BMW engines.

The "Bavarian," despite its smaller displacement and traditional rear-wheel drive, revs up excellently and boasts the best elasticity. Moreover, it is the most economical in our six. You should not expect miracles from it, but this sedan can provide driving pleasure. And largely thanks to the suspension — firm but elastic.

The Ford Mondeo's engine has the smallest displacement, but not the most modest power. 125 "horses" confidently pull the car around town. On the highway, the unsuccessful fifth gear disappoints: there is often not enough power for overtaking at high speed. You have to engage fourth, but then the engine starts to emit an unpleasant sound at high revs.

The Mercedes-Benz C 180 is the only one with a 6-speed gearbox, whose shift algorithm is unusual and, apparently, therefore confuses many. However, once you get used to it, you can quite effectively use all 129 horsepower for confident straight-line movement. Problems arise in the city, when on fourth gear it's "already no way," and on third — "still too early." The testers unanimously dubbed the C 180 a "sleepyhead" — for its too calm character and overly long gears.

The VW Passat, having two liters of displacement, produces only 115 hp, which seems a bit little for such a solid carrier. But the engine's refinement is top-notch: there is excellent traction at almost any rpm, and no vibrations. But you can't call it a sprinter.

The Volvo S60, according to technical specifications, should be the most powerful. But five cylinders and 140 hp do not make it a leader. Even the torque of 220 N·m cannot overcome the long gears, especially fifth. The engine sometimes starts to falter — usually when full output is required. If you don't provoke it with sharp throttle presses and drive calmly, the S60 pleases with stable traction across almost the entire rev range.

Based on the results of extended comparisons, Ford Mondeo won on points. The testers were won over by the engine and the best price-quality ratio. The Audi A4 is in second place, mainly due to its high price. But in the "sport" category, it has no equal.

Third place rightfully goes to the VW Passat, which impressed with reliability, solidity, and build quality. A true family limousine.

The BMW 318i lost in the fight for first place mainly due to its modest interior space and low payload. At the same time, all testers noted the excellent organization of the workplace, high quality, and good ergonomics.

The Mercedes-Benz C 180 has to settle for fifth place: the high base price, high fuel consumption, and "sleepiness" did their job.

To the regret of the "test pilots" themselves, the Volvo S60 finished last. The reason is its originality in many aspects and unstable behavior in certain situations. According to the testers, the Swedish car deserves more, but it is still difficult for it to compete with such serious rivals.

P.S. Such a comparison resembles "catching microns" on a lathe: all cars are made at a high level, and it is not easy to determine the winner. In such cases, the leader is usually "calculated" using a specially developed point system.