Geneva motor show - Ford

It's all about Mondeo
Mondeos, Mondeos and more Mondeos - that's what awaits visitors to the Ford stand at Geneva.

In July, the company will launch hatchback, saloon and estate versions of the new Mondeo simultaneously, and they're on display for the first time anywhere.

But haven't buyers abandoned cars like this?
Sales have been plummeting, that's for sure, but the Mondeo is still a significant car, especially in the UK, and Ford reckons it can hit back.

How?
Through a combination of style, quality and technology. The new Mondeo looks really good and the fixtures and fittings wouldn't look out of place in something German and expensive. You can get the sort of gadgets found in those cars, too.

Such as?
A central control unit linked to a screen in the dash, voice-activated climate control, stereo and phone systems, and cruise control that holds your distance to the car ahead. Oh, and there's a world-first - a fuel filler that prevents you from putting diesel in a petrol car, or vice-versa.

All a bit posh for sales reps, isn't it?
Ford wants to get away from the idea that the Mondeo is just a fleet barge, so to attract private buyers it's been really aggressive with pricing. The range starts at £14,995. It's claimed the new car is £300 cheaper than the old one on average and has £700 worth of extra equipment.

And presumably the choice is huge?
Yep - nine petrol or diesel engines, four trim levels, three bodystyles and loads of options.

To see video footage of the new Mondeo, click here.