To enhance active safety, all models were fitted with anti-lock brakes and electronic brake-force distribution, with electronic stability program (ESP) available as an option. With an even stronger bodyshell, Ford introduced its so-called 'Intelligent Protection System' (IPS), which used an 'intelligent' array of sensors based on a neural network, to decide the best combination of safety devices (traditional front passenger airbags, side airbags and curtain airbags) to deploy for a given crash situation. Titanium and Titanium X slotted in between Zetec S and Ghia, and ST220 slotted in above ST.Īs with its predecessor, passive safety was a major selling point of the 2000 Mondeo. Despite this, a mid-cycle facelift in 2003 saw the introduction of some new trim levels. This Mondeo simplified trim levels a lot, for example the UK trims had been simplified down to Ford dispensed with the rounded American style interior of the first generation, and developed a more sober 'Germanic' design, which not only seemed more sophisticated but, more importantly, was of a higher quality due to the use of more expensive materials. The North American market Fusion and Ford Five Hundred/Taurus sported very similar styling, inside and out.įollowing the standard setting interior of the Volkswagen Passat (B5) in 1996, Ford paid a great deal of attention to the second generation Mondeo's interior and was the first major American manufacturer to react to the new standard set by Volkswagen. This Mondeo came to Mexico, replacing the North American built Ford Contour, and was sold from 2001 to 2007, when the Ford Fusion replaced it. The basic chassis and suspension design was carried over from the previous generation, which meant that the car continued its predecessor's reputation for class leading handling and ride. Two of the old car's biggest weaknesses, the modest rear legroom, and uncompetitive diesel version were addressed by a 50 mm (2.0 in) longer wheelbase and the new Duratorq diesel engine.

This gave it an overall effect which many critics felt was more restrained and mature, if much less distinctive. This Mondeo was considerably larger than its predecessor, and although Ford abandoned its New Edge design theme for the second generation, it was their first vehicle to fully benefit from the Prodigy concept car. The Ford Mondeo Mk3 (second generation) model was launched by Ford in October 2000.

Mondeo mk3 change clock