Best Family Carpublic car

The newest incarnation of the Ford Mondeo which has only been on sale for a few months has been named What Car?’s “Best family car” for 2011. At the awards it also collected “Best Estate” for 2011. To keep the Mondeo up to date and fresh, Ford gave it a facelift inside and out.

The awards were specifically awarded to the Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCi 140PS Zetec, the model’s fuel economy, CO2 levels, refinement levels and looks contributed in it getting the double accolade. The new Mondeo boasts refreshed external highlights, heightened interior craftsmanship and hi-tech features in the cabin.

On the outside the New Mondeo now has LED lights, a revised bonnet profile and full chrome window surround. The Ford Mondeo has always been a showcase for Ford’s latest technology; this new model has new technology ranging from multi-media DVD system and 265-watt sound system to lane departure warning and speed limiter.

Steve Fowler, What Car? editor-in-chief, said: "The latest Mondeo is simply a brilliant car - and now even better value. It does everything brilliantly and nothing badly - whether you choose the hatch or estate you'll be getting a spacious, high quality, affordable car that's more fun to drive than you'd expect a family car to be."

There have been new engines introduced to the Mondeo’s line-up; there are two 1.6 litre engines, a diesel and petrol. The 1.6-litre TDCi diesel engine fitted with start-stop as standard, returns over 65mpg and emits only 114g CO2/km. The 1.6-litre 160PS Ecoboost turbo charged petrol engine, capable of 134mph, delivers 41.5mpg and emits 158g CO2/km.

Nigel Sharp, Ford Britain managing director, said: "Ford's newest Mondeo has an exterior look and standard of interior well suited to the executive car park. For 2011 we've added power-trains ideal for the low carbon needs of our customers."

The new Mondeo is available now to buy, prices start from £17,695. Automotive journalist and industry experts have predicted the Mondeo will be very popular, not just with business users but with personal users too. It won’t be long before we see the new Mondeo amongst other Motability cars in Southend.