2015 Ford Mondeo opens for pre-launch bookings
Ford has confirmed that its all-new Mondeo D-segment sedan is open for bookings ahead of its scheduled launch later this month. Whilst largely a global model under the One Ford policy, the Mondeo for Malaysia follows the European version that began selling only in 2014, a full two years after the American version, known as the Fusion, was launched.
A wide range of powertrains of various sizes and outputs, starting from as low as the Fiesta’s 1.0-litre EcoBoost, are available globally with the Mondeo, although for Malaysia, focus is narrowed to the familiar 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine of the outgoing model producing rated outputs of 237hp and 345Nm. A six-speed transmission is paired to the engine, but unlike the current model’s Powershift dual clutch gearbox from Getrag, the new one goes back to a conventional auto with SelectShift manual control and paddle shifters.
Fully-imported from Ford’s plant in Valencia, Spain, the new Mondeo is built on a new platform that supersedes the outgoing EUCD architecture that was also shared with Volvo and Land Rover. It notably ditches Ford’s patented Control Blade independent rear suspension in favour of a new (also independent) integral link set up that is more commonly found in more premium vehicles.
Sophisticated materials and production techniques underpin the new Mondeo’s construction with the usual stated benefit of achieving greater strength and reduced weight; its roof rails, A- and B-pillars are made of hydro-formed high strength steel whilst the inner frame of the tailgate is made out of magnesium, making it 40 percent lighter than it would otherwise have been if made out of traditional steel.
A slew of advanced features make up the Mondeo’s lengthy kit count with safety is covered by seven airbags, electronic stability control, adaptive cruise control, and reverse camera. Forward illumination is provided by adaptive front LED lighting that adjusts beam angle and intensity based on parameters such as driving environment, ambient light conditions, steering angle, distance to the vehicle in front and windscreen wiper activation.
The Mondeo will be Ford’s first model in Malaysia to offer the Blue Oval’s exclusive MyKey technology, a system which allows owners to pre-programme restrictions such as maximum audio volume and speed if they are to hand the keys over to their teenage kids or parking attendants. Also making its first appearance in Malaysia is Ford’s new-generation SYNC2 infotainment system which boasts an eight-inch touchscreen and enhanced voice recognition for handsfree operation.
Available for viewing and test drives at three road shows scheduled around Klang Valley over the next month, the new Mondeo will be priced at an estimated RM203,800. The road show series starts today at Bangsar Shopping Centre until 5 April with the next two shows scheduled at Desa Park City (22-26 Apr) and Setia City Mall (6-10 May).
Pictures: Official Ford release.
