Shots of Ford's Mondeo midsized sedan and wagon have been circulating in the autosphere lately.

The Mondeo is the global equivalent of our Fusion, although the two don't share a platform just yet. The Mondeo gets a refreshed exterior for 2011 with extra emphasis on Ford's "kinetic" design language and LED lighting. The interior has also been given a once-over and we now find higher-quality materials and a redesigned center console. It's not a full redesign but the Mondeo has significantly improved Ford's worldwide appeal in the last decade and comprises an important part of the Blue Oval portfolio.

Power-wise, the Mondeo can soon be ordered with the 1.6- and 2.0-liter versions of the direct-injected, turbocharged EcoBoost inline-fours. Ford hasn't confirmed powertrain selections for our next-generation Fusion but don't expect to see the Duratorq diesel series beneath the hood. Other key technological features include the PowerShift dual-clutch automatic transmission, Smart Regenerative Charging, and the Ford Eco Mode driver information system designed for efficient motoring. For the first time at Ford, an Active Grille Shutter system is coming into play, which electronically opens and closes vents in the front grille to reduce drag while in motion and hasten engine warm-ups.



Source: Ford courtesy of Automobile Magazine Staff