From October 2007 issue

List price when tested: £21,645
Kerbweight: 1615kg
85% match: 1373kg
Max towing weight: 1800kg
Towball limit: 75kg

WE EXPECTED the 2007 Mondeo to be good, but it’s better than that. It’s brilliant.

The Mondeo 2.0 TDCi is one of few cars to pick up a maximum five-star overall rating, and it’s thoroughly deserved. First and foremost, the Ford is an excellent towcar. At high speeds, stability is beyond reproach and through our lane-change test the caravan followed obediently behind, even when really pushing hard. Accurate, well weighted steering helped the driver place the car with precision.

The Mondeo’s engine plays its part, too. Power builds gradually but there’s enough to pull car and caravan from 30-60mph in 12.6 seconds. It’s a refined engine, too. Road noise is more likely to disturb the peace than what’s under the bonnet.

More fun than it should be

Leave the caravan behind and the Mondeo will soon have the corners of your mouth lifting. It’s more fun to drive than any sober, sensible family car has a right to be, yet ride comfort hasn’t been sacrificed for nimble cornering and strong grip. With the Mondeo, you get the lot.

Inside, the Ford is one of the most spacious family cars, with enough head and legroom in the back for tall adults to stretch out. There’s lots of space in the boot, too, so there’s no need to pack light for the family holiday.

You will need to budget for steep depreciation, however. The Mondeo doesn’t hold its value very well, so haggle hard for a big saving on the asking price. Impressive fuel economy helps keep running costs down.

We say
Towing: 5/5
Solo: 5/5
Practicality: 5/5
Buying & owning: 4/5

Verdict: 5/5. An excellent towcar and a great solo drive. Economical and practical, too.

Braking 30-0mph: n/a

Find out more about this car at www.whatcar.com