Revealed: Ford's new Mondeo

It's one of the most eagerly awaited cars for years - Ford's all-new Mondeo.

It's one of the most eagerly awaited cars for years - Ford's all-new Mondeo.

Set to go on sale next year, the newcomer has a great deal of responsibility resting on its shoulders.

Family car sales are falling as more and more crossover MPVs are launched - including Ford's own S-Max - so the Mondeo needs to offer something fresh.

Although the car here is heavily disguised, it showcases some of the most dramatic styling yet seen on a production Ford. Following on from the Iosis concept-car, the new Mondeo is set to continue the firm's exciting design theme, with bold upper and lower grilles, rakish headlights and a sporty profile.

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In terms of bodystyles, the saloon version will probably be dropped in favour of a hatchback and estate line-up. No final decision on this is known as yet.

The new car has grown significantly. With extra length added to the wheelbase, it should have more passenger space as well as improved crash protection.

Based on a chassis derived from the S-Max, the car will keep its front-wheel-drive layout, with engines including uprated versions of existing 1.8-litre and 2-litre petrols, plus 2-litre and 2.2-litre turbodiesels. Range-toppers are expected to use the Focus ST's 2.5-litre 225-bhp five-cylinder petrol engine, as well as the Ford/PSA 2.7-litre twin-turbodiesel.

Sharp responses will be assured thanks to a new electro-hydraulic steering system - first seen on the C-MAX - which also helps to save fuel.

Set to debut with a teaser concept to be shown at the Paris Motor Show in September, the full launch is not expected until Spring of 2007.