Mondeo gets TDCi engine in Ireland

25 January 2002: Ford Ireland has brought the new Duratorq TDCi common rail diesel to its flagship model, the Mondeo Executive. The 2 litre 130PS engine gives the car a top speed of 125mph and 0-62mph in less than 10 seconds.

In the TDCi, there’s none of the harshness of conventional diesels, and a responsiveness close to that of equivalent petrol engines has been achieved. Torque levels have been increased significantly.

The TDCi engine was first made available in the Ford Focus earlier this year.

Last year, diesel cars accounted for 35% of sales in the family and fleet car sector in Ireland. Across Europe, diesel penetration is expected to rise to 40% of all sales in the next three years.

“The Duratorq TDCi is the powertrain to expand the diesel segment in Ireland,” says Eddie Murphy, Chairman and Managing Director, Henry Ford & Son Limited. “In fact, in most driving conditions it is scarcely distinguishable from a petrol engine. I foresee many converts to diesel in the coming years, and TDCi can lead the crusade.”

Available in 4-door, 5-door and Estate versions, the Mondeo Executive TDCi retails from eur 34,346, ex-Cork. It features the Ford Intelligent Protection System (IPS), comprising ‘smart’ front airbags, side airbags, air curtains and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA). Also standard is Electronic Automatic Temperature Control air conditioning (EATC), leather upholstery, trip computer, leather-covered gearknob and steering wheel, electric mirrors and windows throughout and a 4-speaker remote radio/CD player.

The new Mondeo has been the best-selling car in its class over the past 6 months. Nearly 5,000 have been sold since its introduction last January.

January 2002