What is it?
Ford's Mondeo Titanium hatch is more a liftback-sedan cross in terms of looks and usability.
Our test car had the 2.0-litre 120kW/340Nm diesel with six-speed auto. It cost $54,990, partly attributable to an extensive features list that included seven airbags, stability and cruise control, Bluetooth, auto air-con, 18-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, keyless entry and start and cornering lights. It even boasts features from high-end Euros, such as lane departure and blind spot warning, driver alert and adaptive cruise. Get too close to the car in front and impact warnings flash.
We like
Gadget geeks will love Mondeo's eco-calculator which adds or drops flower petals according to how you drive. The car monitors gearshifts, cruising speed and the pattern of braking and accelerating to guess how well you anticipate conditions.
Even Ford NZ isn't sure how it does it but the aim is to improve fuel efficiency. Drive with brio and watch the petals fall; get more relaxed, and they regrow - and you use less fuel.
They'll also like the rest of the high-end technology - clearly Ford made the most of its Volvo relationship while it lasted.
We loathe
Snobbism - this Mondeo should lure premium buyers but they may be deterred by the blue-collar badge.