Ford Mondeo Estate - Interior & comfort (2014-2022)
The Ford Mondeo now feels better built than before and has more equipment as standard
Getting comfortable behind the wheel of the Mondeo estate is unlikely to be difficult, as both the driver's seat and steering wheel offer lots of adjustment.
Although it's a pretty big car, the Ford Mondeo estate's slab-faced rear end makes parking easier than in the hatchback, plus front and rear parking sensors are fitted as standard. The Active Park Assist system – part of an option pack – can now automatically reverse-park the car into spaces as well as parallel-park it on the street.
Once underway, the main thing you’ll notice about the Mondeo is how much quieter than the old car it is, which suits the latest model's more relaxed nature. Its steering is lighter and the revised suspension is much more comfortable.
Ford Mondeo Estate dashboard
An eight-inch touchscreen has allowed Ford to cut down on traditional buttons, giving the Mondeo's interior a much cleaner look than previous models. Feedback from North America – where this Mondeo is badged as the Fusion – has led Ford to replace the previous Mondeo’s touch-sensitive heater controls with normal buttons that are easier to use.
Compared to any previous Mondeo, the latest version has far higher-quality interior trim and there are no squeaks and rattles once you're on the move. Our test car suffered from a poor-fitting panel around the gearlever, however. The Mondeo features SYNC 3 – the latest version of Ford's voice-recognition system – which is simple to use, if a little slow at times. Another highlight is the colour displays located within the speedometer and rev counter. They're easily controlled via steering-wheel-mounted buttons.
Equipment
Ford's eight-inch touchscreen is about the same size as the one in a Volkswagen Passat, and it gives the car a modern edge inside. It displays everything from the current radio station to ventilation controls, and works well with the SYNC 3 voice-recognition system.
Zetec Edition cars have plenty of useful features inside such as a Quickclear fast-demisting windscreen, sat nav and cruise control. Titanium Edition offers more equipment, adding extras like automatic headlights and wipers, keyless entry and go, heated leather upholstery and attractive interior lighting. If the Titanium Edition is not enough luxury for you, the Mondeo Vignale Estate offers an enhanced specification and a range-topping position. It’s pricey, but your money pays for plenty of luxurious equipment, a unique styling makeover and even a concierge service.
There’s also sporty ST-Line Edition trim, distinguished by a racy bodykit, a black honeycomb grille and a black beltline below the windows, as well as a choice of 18 or 19-inch alloys. Inside, there are leather sports seats with red stitching, a leather steering wheel and black interior trims. It also has sporty lowered suspension for a firmer ride and racier driving experience.