The Ford Mondeo is celebrating its 20th anniversary and more than 4.5 million sales across Europe. It was introduced in 1993 following a 5-year, €3.5 billion development programme.
Mondeo has set standards in its class for two decades, gaining many awards across Europe. It was European Car of the Year in 1994. It also won Semperit Irish Car of the Year titles here in 1994 and in 2008.
The first generation model provided a driver airbag as standard and an optional passenger one. It also offered advanced new features like traction control, adaptive damping, Anti-lock Braking System and power steering. The second generation Mondeo in 1996 came with optional side airbags, made standard two years later, and with four-channel ABS and reduced weight.
The third model in 2007 - in the James Bond movie - added Adaptive Cruise Control, Interactive Vehicle Dynamic Control and Ford's Easy Fuel system to prevent misfuelling.
An updated version in 2010 had the latest Ford EcoBoost petrol engine technology and Lane Departure Warning, Driver Alert and Auto High Beam.
The arrival of the new Mondeo has now been delayed until 2014. It will feature the Blue Oval's 1.0 EcoBoost petrol engine expected to deliver leading fuel economy; a petrol Hybrid Electric Vehicle powertrain; full LED headlamps and the European debut of Ford's rear inflatable seat belts designed to reduce head, neck and chest injuries for rear passengers.
An upgraded version of Mondeo was recently launched in Ireland with C02 emissions reduced by up to 8 percent, improved fuel efficiency, more equipment levels on mid and high series. Prices start at €23,950.
