2017 Ford Mondeo Ambiente new car review
Why we're driving it
Ford has given the Mondeo a tiny tweak to try and keep it fresh for 2017. The blue oval added its latest SYNC3 infotainment system in a rolling change at the end of 2016 and has now upsized the alloy wheels for a visual change. In the case of the Ambiente we're testing, that means 17-inch alloy wheels are now standard.
What we like
The fundamentals of the Mondeo remain the same and that's a good thing, because it is one of the best mid-size sedans on the market.
Under the bonnet, the 2.0-litre turbocharged 'EcoBoost' engine offers up decent punch with 149kW of power and 345Nm of torque. For those looking for a bit more, the next model up Trend gets a more powerful 177kW version of the same engine.
The six-speed automatic transmission is a nice unit, offering slick shifts and extracting the best from the engine.
Dynamically, the Mondeo is one of the best in the class with sharp steering, responsive handling and a compliant ride that makes it engaging to drive.
The cabin is spacious with plenty of room for the family. The boot is a generous 557-litres which is easy to access via the hatchback-style opening.
The new SYNC3 is one of the better infotainment systems, with an easy-to-use interface and great connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Even in base trim, the Ambiente comes with Ford's industry leading inflatable rear seatbelt airbags, as part of a good passive safety package that also includes nine airbags in total. It also comes standard with Ford's MyKey system that allows you to turn off certain functions for inexperienced drivers.
What we dislike
While the cabin is roomy the overall design is a little plain and there are a lot of grey plastics.
In Ambiente trim it can feel a little basic in places too, such as the cloth trimmed seats, manual adjustment for the seats and the active safety features that are standard on the Trend and Titanium are not as comprehensive.
Would I buy one
I'd certainly have it on the shortlist if I was looking for a reasonably-priced family car. The Australian-made Falcon may be dead but with the Mondeo the blue oval has a more modern offering that will meet most former Falcon buyers' requirements.
It also stacks up well against its European and Asian rivals like the Mazda6, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima and Volkswagen Passat.
2017 Ford Mondeo Ambiente pricing and specifications
Price: from $33,190 plus on-road costs
Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol
Power: 149kW at 5300rpm
Torque: 345Nm at 2700-3500rpm
Transmission: Six-speed automatic, front-wheel drive
Fuel use: 8.2L/100km