Future scoop: check out the next Ford Mondeo

Ford’s out-of-favour name plate lives on! On a hybrid crossover, due later this year…

1 A NEW UTILITY LOOK

Ford is looking to capitalise further on the SUV trend in Europe, and to make the Mondeo great again. Out goes the saloon-cumhatchback bodystyle as the Mondeo morphs into a midrise crossover estate. The Ford grille will remain, with some design inspiration from the new Mach-E and the Explorer that’s now available in mainland Europe.

2 THE FUTURE IS CD

Not the compact disc, but Ford’s CD4 platform. Although Ford has newer platforms enabling rear- or all-wheeldrive hybrids like the latest Explorer, the Blue Oval is expected to keep the front- and all-wheeldrive architecture used by the current Mondeo and S-Max, and the latest Lincoln models in the US.

3 THE KITCHEN SYNC

Ford’s latest infotainment, Sync 4, arrived on the Mustang Mach-E. The Mondeo will use it but is expected to have a more conventional widescreen display. Expect a clean cockpit, as Ford aims to step up its interior quality and design.

4 ELECTRIFIED OR ELECTRIC?

The CD4 platform allows a plug-in hybrid powertrain like the CVT-equipped Ford Kuga PHEV that’s already on sale. We understand that the Mondeo will not, however, become a full EV. Ford will use its new relationship with VW to utilise the MEB platform for a dedicated range of electric cars.