2003 Ford Mondeo Ghia X review from UK and Ireland

Steering "clonking" when pulling away, adjusted by Dealer at service and no longer a problem.

53 Mondeo Ghia X TDCI 130bhp 6.

I have to say that I am extremely impressed with the way Ford have packaged this vehicle. I did a lot of research before parting with my cash and the choice was between a Mazda 6 and the Ford.

When you look at the reliability index the TDCi came close to the Mazda and then I discovered that Mazda are using the same Ford diesel unit.

I saw a Mazda 6 and Mondeo in traffic and could compare the physical size of both cars, the Mondeo is bigger and so I made my mind up that you get more for your money with the Mondeo.

The Ghia X has some nice toys and features that I would expect to see on more expensive cars and the overall layout, aesthetics and quality of the interior has brought Ford out of the "middle of the road" reputation.

Driving shows this to have a nicely torqued acceleration and the 6th gear gets you cruising at 85mph at 2500 revs, nice and quiet.

Suspension is set just about right for comfort, but for my tastes it's a shame they haven't put the sportier Zetec S suspension on to give you crisper handling when it matters, but comfort over handling will always be a compromise.

The fuel consumption is extremely pleasing, for me I average about 45mpg and most of my commute is motorway, so hit the cruise control and start saving money, the key to this is keep the servicing up at the specified intervals otherwise your consumption dips noticeably.

Servicing costs don't hurt too much, first 2 are £165 and then the big one will be in the region of £220.

The only criticism I can find is that 4th is a little flat, windscreen wipers are a bit feeble and the Stereo/CD sound quality could be better (my 1996 Peugeot 405 GTX stereo knocks socks off it).

My view is that the Mondeo has been around for a while, driven by many a road warrior and Ford have listened to the feedback over the years, made adjustments and refinements that are sensible, pleasing and good value for money.