Paris Motor Show: Ford Mondeo Wagon

Using the 'kinetic' design language introduced at Frankfurt in 2005 with the Iosis concept, Ford of Europe has just unveiled its new flagship, the Mondeo, at Paris today. The wagon is the first to be debuted, with a production launch scheduled across Europe in the second quarter of 2007. Ford of Europe considers the Mondeo a critical step forward to expanding its product portfolio, and it complements their other new vehicles, the S-MAX, Galaxy, and Focus Coupe-Cabriolet.
The new Mondeo will be built at Ford's Genk plant in Belgium along side the S-MAX and Galaxy. These vehicles all share much of the same architecture and technology, as well as assembly process, allowing the Genk plant to be more flexible in terms of vehicle production.
With GM getting serious about taking its investment in Opel and porting the European flavor into one of its brands, we wonder why we can't see more of the same from Ford. Sure, the Fusion is a nice car, but the Mondeo shown here is just phenomenal. Why not take a brand like Mercury and bring these more expensive European models over in limited numbers?
You can check out more of the photos that Eric Byrant has acquired, as well as Ford's own press release, after the jump.
[UPDATE: Swapped in some cleaner shots. Sorry 'bout the first ones, folks! - EB]
























PARIS PREVIEW FOR ALL-NEW 2007 FORD MONDEO
• All-new Ford Mondeo previewed in near final production form ahead of launch in early 2007
• Sporty and stylish wagon derivative is revealed first
• Dynamic and individual styling takes 'kinetic design' form language to a new level
• New model will be technologically advanced with many new features to assist and pamper its driver
• High quality materials feature in spacious interior
• New Mondeo benefits from Ford's Shared Technology initiative and will join new S-MAX and Galaxy on the production lines at Genk
• Range will be critical to Ford of Europe's business and sit at the head of an expanding product portfolio
Cologne, September 22, 2006: The all-new Ford Mondeo makes its world debut at the 2006 Paris Motor Show between September 30 and October 15. Ford of Europe's stylish new flagship model is being previewed in its wagon bodystyle in near production specification, with launch scheduled across Europe from the second quarter of 2007.
"The new Mondeo is critical to the Ford of Europe business," said John Fleming, President and CEO of Ford of Europe. "The Ford Mondeo has always been a major player in the European CD segment, and with over four million owners looking for us to deliver something special, we have every intention of meeting their significant expectations with this all-new model."
New Mondeo will follow and build on the success of the new Ford S-MAX and Ford Galaxy models, both of which have been launched to media and customer acclaim during 2006.
To meet customer needs and wants, the 2007 Mondeo will deliver more comfort, more space, and more premium quality features, while remaining affordable.
Benefiting from Ford's 'Shared Technologies' initiative, new Mondeo shares much of its architecture and technology with S-MAX and Galaxy, as well as a production line.
New Mondeo completes a €715 million investment that has modernised Ford's Genk plant in Belgium and transformed it into a world-class, flexible manufacturing facility. From early 2007, new Mondeo bodystyles will join S-MAX and new Galaxy on the same assembly lines using common architectures and technologies.
This gives the company tremendous flexibility and manufacturing efficiency to respond to market demands and fluctuations.
Genk also plays an increasingly important role in the global Ford business. Ford of Europe continues to strengthen its role as the developer of high quality vehicles like the new Mondeo which are targeted not just at Europe, but also at the Asia Pacific and African markets.
New Mondeo has also been developed in line with Ford's Product Sustainability Index.
PSI provides a basis for permanent evaluation and improved sustainability performance for new generations of vehicles across environmental, social and economic areas. This holistic approach to product development is an industry first, with the new S-MAX and Galaxy being the pioneer vehicles created with PSI.
New Mondeo Design – Energy in Motion
The new Mondeo is striking and unmistakably a member of the Ford family. It takes the company's 'kinetic design' form language to a new level.
A comprehensive range of core bodystyles will be launched concurrently in the new range, but the Ford of Europe design team has chosen the new wagon as its Paris hero.
"The wagon bodystyle is very important in the CD segment so it is appropriate that we show this derivative in Paris first," said Martin Smith, Ford of Europe's Design Director.
"The new Mondeo's wagon bodystyle really emphasizes the sporty, dynamic and premium appearance of the new range," added Smith. "Above all, we've managed to achieve this kinetic look without compromising luggage capacity. I believe new Mondeo will challenge everyone's perceptions of a big Ford car, and prove that we can once again deliver style with substance in a desirable form."
The new Mondeo clearly demonstrates how Ford of Europe's 'kinetic design' language is shaping the company's new models. This form language will be progressively applied to future Ford vehicles in an appropriate way, depending on individual vehicle or market segment tastes.
The new Mondeo range will incorporate all of the key 'kinetic design' elements:
• Dynamic lines
• Three-plane plan front-end view
• Full surfaces
• Strong shoulders
• Bold wheel lips
• A rising belt line
• A distinctive kick-up of the window graphic at the C-pillar
"With the purest expression of 'kinetic design' revealed in the Ford iosis Concept at Frankfurt 2005, we then introduced the first elements into volume production on the new S-MAX and Galaxy," Smith added. "Now, the new Mondeo takes the next major step along our journey towards a more expressive and emotional Ford range."
Immediately evident in the new model's appearance is the distinctive front end, with its chamfered corners and the deep offset between the top of the bonnet and the front wings. Seen from above, the three-plane plan view of the frontal area is immediately obvious, and a key visual link between the new Mondeo and the 2005 iosis Concept vehicle, emphasizing their proportional relationship.
The new family face of Ford is further represented at the front end by a premium-feel, large upper grille opening, and an inverted trapezoidal lower grille. Large and distinctive headlamps and lower foglamps are a key design element, and draw the eye around the chamfered corners, neatly disguising the volume required to meet the latest pedestrian protection requirements.
A muscular shoulder line runs through the side of the car to a high point at the rear. This produces a dynamic window graphic when the so-called "daylight opening" (DLO) is viewed in profile, and an upward kick at the rear of the DLO further emphasizes the feeling of motion. Distinctive rear lamps also feature carefully designed graphics that enhance the overall feeling of premium quality.
A strong undercut line runs from the bold front wing wheel lips through the side of the car. Under this, full surfacing extends down to strong rocker panels to ensure the vehicle maintains a dynamic road presence.
The undercut and full surfaces are key graphic elements of 'kinetic design' and are already becoming familiar as new S-MAX and Galaxy become more visible on European roads.
'Kinetic design' themes are carried through to the all-new interior, which features high quality surfaces, materials and finishes.
Here, dynamic lines and full surfaces are again evident, and the low profile instrument panel provides very generous cabin space for front seat occupants. The flow-through centre console allows the gear shifter to be located high and within easy ergonomic reach of the driver.
The design team has also paid great attention to interior detailing, and examples of this include new generation infotainment systems, plus the next generation of Ford's Human Machine Interface (HMI). This easy to use system features the same steering-wheel toggle switches seen on new Galaxy and S-MAX, but introduces the availability of a large central LCD screen with full colour graphics situated between the main analogue instruments in front of the driver.
Rear seat headroom and legroom have also come in for scrutiny by the Mondeo development team, and these have been maximized for occupant comfort and safety.
"New Mondeo will deliver premium levels of comfort in a class-leading package," says Steve Adams, Ford's Vehicle Line Director for Large Cars. "You can also expect innovative and top-of-the-range new technology features, particularly those aimed at assisting and pampering the driver."
New Technology Combined with Driving Quality
The 2007 Mondeo range will feature many of the new technologies seen on Ford
S-MAX and Galaxy, and also introduce some new features unique to the new model.
The Ford team is also determined to ensure that new Mondeo will maintain its position as the best CD car for driving quality, with superior driving dynamics, and targeting best-in-class steering, ride and handling.
A wide range of dependable Ford powertrains will be offered, from the powerful and well-proven Ford Duratorq 2.0-litre TDCi diesel and a high-performance 2.5-litre turbocharged Duratec petrol engine derived from that fitted to the new S-MAX, to efficient 1.6-litre Duratec petrol and 1.8-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engines with outstanding fuel economy.
Full series information, technical specifications and data for the new Mondeo range will be revealed early in 2007.
"The new Mondeo Wagon we are previewing at Paris is aimed at preparing our customers for the most exciting and high quality Ford CD car we have ever delivered," concluded Joe Bakaj, Ford of Europe's Vice President of Product Development. "The finer technical details will be kept secret for a few more months, but we believe that the Paris showcar's dynamic and kinetic exterior design and stylish, spacious new interior will give a clear indication of how different the new Mondeo range will be. We can't wait to launch it!"







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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 2)
Stoneman 8:04AM (9/28/2006)
I love the exterior and interior design. Except for the weird orange color scheme, this is a winner.
Stoneman
http://www.stonemanautoreview.com
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john martines 5:42PM (2/22/2008)
Leasing the mondeo in Italy. Does anyone know the dementions of the trunk, Like the width of the floor. Will it hold for 29" suitcases? thanks
AnonymousInsights 8:09AM (9/28/2006)
I know the Paris Auto Show is in the fall but kill the two-toned pumpkin orange interior
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Justin 8:17AM (9/28/2006)
I'm thinking my mother can now trade in her 93 taurus wagon, lol. She won't give that thing up for anything.
Cool looking car...actually reminds me of a magnum from the side a little bit...far more refined and sporty though.
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D-Dog 8:13AM (9/28/2006)
I see Mazda6 wagon but not as attractive. Looks nothing like a Ford.
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Scott Markle 8:14AM (9/28/2006)
Why in the world doesn't Ford bring stuff like this to the US??? I would buy something like this in a heartbeat over the offerings from Japan or Germany.
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Dan 8:26AM (9/28/2006)
For god's sake Ford. Bring us the European Focus! Why the most important car market gets Ford's scraps I just don't get. I'm looking to replace my 2000 Focus ZX3 next year and I would buy the European version in a heartbeat.
I'm with you guys. Bring us the cool stuff from Europe. Everything Ford needs in the U.S. is already being produced by them in other parts of the world. Ford is completely paralyzed. It's always the same old comments from them "It would be too expensive to produce here." "American's don't like European design."
We like good design period. Not staid designs like the 500. I think the Ford Ka would do just fine against the Fit and Yaris. Jesus man! Plants should be going up in Michigan to knock those things out. Uggghhh! I can't take thinking about it anymore.
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Hamud 8:40AM (9/28/2006)
Hey, are you using your cell phone to take this photos or???
Well, the car is really amazing, the only thing i don't like is the color scheme, it could be blue and black.
I totally agree with Randall. Mercury could be just the brand to offer euro Fords to the USA.
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Stone 8:41AM (9/28/2006)
I'm sorry, but the Ford Ka would not sell here.
The Mondeo on the other hand...wow. Good thing I drive a Mazda 6, because that's the closest to a sporty sedan that the US is going to get from the Ford Motor Company.
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emulous1974 9:08AM (9/28/2006)
Have you guys forgot the Merkur brand that Ford tried in the U.S. in the late '80s. I loved the Scorpio and XR4ti, but it was not a success for Ford. I also want to see Ford of Europe's products on these shores, but I highly doubt we will see Ford of America do it.
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amp 9:13AM (9/28/2006)
"Why not take a brand like Mercury and bring these more expensive European models over in limited numbers?"
I couldn't agree more. When's the last time Merc had a unique vehicle? The Cougar? Just ditch the orange and slap a chrome 'waterfall' grill on it and send it over.
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Dan 9:39AM (9/28/2006)
I agree that Ford of Europe's cards did poorly here in the past, but the styling differences between American cars and European models were vastly different in the past. When the XR45TI debuted, the Chevy Celebrity was a big seller. I think that's pretty telling.
I still think the Ka would do well against say the Aveo as well as the Asian competitors. It's not even that car in particular. It's that Ford produces really exciting stuff in Europe and doesn't here. That's why they're not doing well. They really need a little more pizazz in their lineup.
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kwc 10:08AM (9/28/2006)
I think that the Ka is actually like a SMART-sized car. It is VERY tiny. The that would compete against the Fit, Yaris, and Aveo if brought here is the Fiesta (someone please correct me if I am wrong)......
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August 1:22PM (9/28/2006)
You guys wouldn't belive how much fun I had in the Ford Focus ST (with the 220hp volvo 5) the other day. Good thing they don't ship it to the states so that there is plenty for us! I'm just hoping for a 4wd (non, or tweaked haldex) version with something like 300hp.
If you wan't a sweet handeling fun car you should try the Fiesta ST (not the size of a Yaris but gettin' there). It's small, nimbel and has just the right amount of power.
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Jason 11:06AM (9/28/2006)
I'm seeing a lot of the Mazda 6 here. in fact if you took the ford badge off I'd guess this was a concept for the next 6.
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mr.ed 11:26AM (9/28/2006)
Visit your local Mazda showroom. Most of this stuff is there already, including the Euro Focus. It's called the 3. Or with a 5-cyl. engine, go to Volvo for an S40.
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bob 1:43PM (9/28/2006)
Strip the concept stuff and you get a boring looking vehicle.
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TriShield 2:44PM (9/28/2006)
This car would be completely wasted on Mercury, which is about as forgettable and redundant as auto brands get.
Why Ford hasn't discontinued Mercury and simply offered higher trim level Ford models like they do in the rest of the world is beyond me.
If Ford ever sold this vehicle in the US the Ford badge should remain, and it should retain the Mondeo name. They can bring over the SportKa, C-Max, C1 Focus while they're at it. And don't forget the Falcon range, Territory and Fairline from Australia.
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Mike 3:06PM (9/28/2006)
I've said it before; bring this car (diesel) to North America! I really think it would sell.
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SWWJ 3:24PM (9/28/2006)
Man Ford pisses me off, I had the opportunity to drive the outgoing Mondeo wagon for a week, for over 650 miles across the entirety of northern Wales. It was a diesel, with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters, and was the best Ford vehicle I've ever been in. The interior was extermely well done, the car handled wonderfully and had plenty of power.
I think I got around 32 mpg (even while driving like I stole it, up and down a few mountains and slowly on a lot of back country roads). My wife (who hates Fords) and I loved the car and were sad to turn it in at the Hertz counter. This car looks great and it's beyond unfortunate that we'll probably never see the car sold in the States.
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