The Mondeo, an Enduring LegacyOut of all the cars that Ford has launched, the Ford Mondeo saloon has proved to be one of its most popular and enduring models in the family sized category, since its launch way back in 1993. Over the years since its original launch, the Ford Mondeo has undergone a transformation and it bears little resemblance to the original model. The MK1 version was replaced by the more aesthetic looking and roomier MK2 version in 1996 which was then produced until 2000. This version saw it take the European Car of the Year Award in 1994, and was subsequently replaced by the Mk3 version, which was larger than the previous models, with a longer wheelbase for more legroom. The name Mondeo comes from the Latin mundus meaning world - the theory being that it was a car designed to be sold across the world. This idea met with limited success as although it was extremely popular in Europe, it fared less well in America where it was sold as the Ford Contour. After initial luke-warm success in Australia, it was relaunched in 2007 where it is now very successful. 2007 saw the launch of the current Mk4 version which uses a new electro-hydraulic system which is more fuel efficient and more responsive to drive. Whilst Ford continue with their theme of selling the Mondeo world-wide, however, it is not available in America or Canada where the Ford Fusion is sold instead. |