MONDEO ESTATE

Although not as popular as it was some 20 years ago, today’s Mondeo is a capable vehicle with respectable towing credentials.

There are a number of diesels to choose from, as well as a hybrid. We haven’t driven the petrol-electric model, but the battery pack eats into the boot space. It’s a self-charging hybrid rather than a plug-in, so its fuel economy figures aren’t all that impressive. We’d be more inclined to have a diesel and a bigger boot.

Until quite recently, the Mondeo was available with an Ecoboost petrol engine. Using turbocharging for power and efficiency, it was better suited to towing than most petrol cars.

However, the only petrol Ford now offers is the petrol-electric hybrid. It seems surprising, given the widespread move away from diesel, but unless you choose the hybrid you will have to have a diesel.

Good economy

That’s no hardship when the engines perform well and deliver very good economy. The latest Ecoblue diesels are clean and efficient. There’s a choice of six-speed manual and eight-speed auto transmission, and while most Mondeos are front-wheel drive, there are also four-wheel-drive models.

The 190hp engine has more top-end punch than the 150hp version, but we’d be inclined to choose the lower-powered version. It has enough pulling power for towing (258lb ft), and it’s cheaper to buy.

As a tow car, the Mondeo is stable and secure on country roads or motorways. However, it’s a shame the interior isn’t a little more upmarket, and it can’t match the VW Passat or Škoda Superb for boot space.