Haven’t we already seen the next generation of Ford’s Mondeo? Well, the answer to that question is a wishy-washy yes and no.
To explain, Ford has decided to go global with its new mid-size offerings, meaning that the new Fusion for North America and the Mondeo for Europe and other markets around the world are for the most part, one and the same.
So nothing really new to see in these spy pictures of a lightly camouflaged prototype that was snapped testing in the European Alps.
During the presentation of the Fusion at the Detroit Show in January, Ford also dropped two pictures of the per-production new Mondeo, but did not provide any information other than that it will go on sale in Europe in early 2013.
We expect to see Ford’s rival to the Volkswagen Passat and Citroen C5 to make its European debut at the Paris Motor Show in September.
Besides the modified turning signals on the headlamps, the Mondeo will also feature a re-tuned suspension adapted for European roads and a wider engine range that will include several diesel options such as Ford’s 1.6-liter, 2.0-liter and 2.2-liter four-cylinder TDCIs.
The diesels will complement Ford’s 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter EcoBoost turbocharged petrol engines. We are still waiting for Ford’s decision on whether it will offer hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions of the Mondeo.
Last week, however, Ford confirmed that its inflatable rear seatbelt, which combines attributes of an airbag and a conventional seatbelt to reduce head, neck and chest injuries for rear-seat passengers, will make its European debut on the new Mondeo.
A station wagon version of the Mondeo is likely to make its appearance within the next year or so.
Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoop
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