2002 Ford Mondeo Zetec-S review from UK and Ireland

Heated front screen failed.

Dashboard lights flicker due to loose wires.

Rear right suspension making horrid noise.

Going on the reputation of the Mondeo, I opted for a TDCI 130 engine because I wanted a bit of fizz with good economy.

Handling is good, although in the wet the front end is a bit loose and the wheel have a tendency to spin if you floor it.

The beige interior is a bit 'different' (the words 'old' and 'man' came out of my mates' mouths) but the seats are comfy and for long trips they don't cripple you.

The stereo stalk on the steering wheel column is poorly placed if you have long legs (I'm 6' 3") but legroom is good and the adjustable driver's seat will suit most shapes and sizes.

The electrics are well placed and the dash and controls are well-placed and very tactile.

The heated front screen is a godsend in the cold (when it works) and visibility out of the front and side is good, although the rear quarter on the hatchback does obscure rear vision a bit.

On long journeys I'm getting about 45mpg and around town it's a reasonable 35mpg for such a good car- much better than my previous Vectra SRi.

The boot is enormous and rear legroom is superb.

Mine has the massive 18" wheels that do kerb easy (watch turning into the kerb) but they look great and it looks nearly as good as an ST220 with its big front and rear bumpers.

The exhaust sheared off after a day, but the dealer (Shepshed Ford) replaced it in 10 minutes, even though it wasn't officially covered by the warranty.

The rear suspension is making a funny noise, as if it's bottoming out on the bump stop, something that's made even more annoying because the suspension on the Zetec-S is hard - watch those speed bumps and potholes!!

All in all, I like this car and am pleased that Mr brown isn't getting too much of my hard-earned every time I fill up... an ST version is definitely my next buy!!