KEY POINTS:
We're not yet seeing businessmen hurling themselves from window ledges, Depression-era style, but people are having second thoughts about
conspicuous consumption.
Distributors are noting signs the corporates are cutting back too. Where once employees would drive a Falcondore, they may be asked to downsize - a touchy topic when the car you drive reflects your status.
Ford's Mondeo is poised to make the most of the executive downsize. It's a big car at 4778 long and 1886mm wide, is wider than a Falcon, and its boot is just 19 litres smaller.
This generation Mondeo is large and handsome, but its chassis hasn't been well matched to overly relaxed engine performance.
Which is where this XR5 fits in. The 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbo engine produces 162kW and 320Nm; considerably more than the standard 2.0 or 2.3-litre cars, and delivered over a satisfying range of revs via a six-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive.
This Volvo-sourced powerplant is shared with the Focus XR5, which though smaller is a smidge more powerful and boasts a manic edge the XR5 Mondeo lacks. But the Mondeo pulls strongly from just above idle to approaching its power peak, which suits its executive focus.
The standard Mondeo is comfortable, ably cushioning its occupants
from road shocks. The heavier engine could have upset the XR5's balance, and the sporty suspension tuning might have ruffled its comfort. But that's not the case. It's still a little comfort-biased with
generous roll and understeer surfacing to curb too brisk a pace.
But it remains predictable enough to reward more spirited driving. The result is increased thirst - a price its driver may be happy to pay.
The car is good for commuting thanks to a generous features list and a
smart, comfortable and well laid-out cabin. All Mondeos have a five-star crash-test rating.
At $48,990 the XR5 is over 10 grand more than the 2.3-litre sedan, but you get a much better balanced vehicle with an engine and suspension that complement each other, and match the flash suit and accessories.
We like:
Characterful soundtrack from strong engine, better balance of power and
handling performance.
We don't like:
Not as exciting as XR5 tag suggests; suspension still too comfort-oriented on anything but sport setting.
Powertrain:
2.5-litre five-cylinder turbo, 162kW at 5000rpm, 320Nm at 1500-4800rpm, six-speed transmission drives front wheels.
Performance:
0-100km/h not available, 9.3 litres/100km thirst (claimed).
Safety:
Five-star crash-test rating via seven airbags, electronic stability control and ABS brakes.
What it's got:
Auto lighting and wipers; dual-zone air-con, alcantara and leather trim,
front and rear parking sensors.
Vital stats:
4778mm long, 486-litre boot, 70-litre tank.
