1 – PowerShift automatic gearbox is ideally mated to the 180PS 2.0-litre diesel. Strong, smooth and easy to live with. A bit like me, really.
2 – Ford claims 56.5mpg average economy, but we only managed 43mpg overall in a week of usual mixed driving.
3 – Mondeo wagon is enhanced by £500 optional 19-inch alloy wheels, but they come at the expense of a pitter-patter ride.
4 – Mondeo’s automatic high/low beam headlights are among the few that work quickly enough not to annoy oncoming drivers.
5 – Titanium trim and X Pack bring a host of luxuries, but no powered tailgate, so it was mucky fingers when opening the boot.
6 – Once opened, the boot is big, broad and swallows everything you throw at it. Also a bit like me.
7 – Ford has long since cracked the formula for a superb driving environment and the Mondeo Estate is the acme of this class.
8 – Titanium X Pack costs £2000 and brings leather upholstery, but more importantly 10-way electric seat adjustment for peerless comfort.
9 – Charging cable in centre console cubby is handy, but lid doesn’t close flush when it’s out. Surely a small slot would have solved this.
10 – Inflatable rear seat belts cost £175 and are a real safety boon, but they look ungainly and prevent using non-Isofix child seats.
