The Ford Mondeo II Sedan 2.0 DI Automatic, produced between 2001 and 2006, represented a significant offering in the mid-size family car segment. Positioned as a practical and efficient option within the Mondeo II range, this variant combined a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine with a five-speed automatic transmission. It aimed to provide comfortable, effortless cruising for drivers prioritizing convenience over outright performance. The Mondeo II, internally designated as the B500 platform, was a crucial model for Ford in Europe, building upon the success of the original Mondeo and establishing a reputation for strong value and a well-rounded driving experience. This particular diesel automatic configuration was aimed at buyers seeking fuel economy and ease of use, particularly those covering long distances or frequently encountering congested traffic.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Mondeo |
| Generation | Mondeo II Sedan |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 DI (115 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1900 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1900 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D6BA |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 19:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10.4 l (10.99 US qt | 9.15 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1491 kg (3287.09 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1975 kg (4354.13 lbs.) |
| Max load | 484 kg (1067.04 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 56 l (14.79 US gal | 12.32 UK gal) |
| Length | 4731 mm (186.26 in.) |
| Width | 1812 mm (71.34 in.) |
| Height | 1429 mm (56.26 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2754 mm (108.43 in.) |
| Front track | 1522 mm (59.92 in.) |
| Rear track | 1537 mm (60.51 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Mondeo II 2.0 DI Automatic was the D6BA engine, a 1.998-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilized a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. Crucially, it employed a common rail direct injection system, a relatively advanced technology for its time, allowing for precise fuel delivery and improved combustion. The D6BA engine featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its respectable power output for its displacement. The five-speed automatic transmission was a conventional torque converter type, prioritizing smooth shifts and ease of use over outright performance. While not known for its sportiness, the transmission was generally reliable and well-suited to the engine’s torque characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 DI Automatic Mondeo offered a comfortable and relaxed driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, with a 0-60 mph time of around 11.9 seconds, but it wasn’t particularly brisk. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did result in some power loss compared to the available manual transmission versions. The engine delivered its peak torque of 280 Nm (206 lb-ft) at a relatively low 1900 rpm, providing good responsiveness for overtaking and merging onto highways. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and cruising comfort, rather than aggressive acceleration. Compared to the higher-output 2.2-liter diesel or the petrol-powered Mondeos, the 2.0 DI Automatic felt noticeably less powerful, but it compensated with superior fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 DI Automatic typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an air conditioning system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for upgraded materials available. Dashboard design was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over aesthetics. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a sunroof, and a CD player. The trim level often dictated the availability of features like rear electric windows, upgraded audio systems, and climate control. This variant generally sat in the mid-range of the Mondeo II lineup, offering a good balance of features and affordability.
Chassis & Braking
The Mondeo II featured independent front suspension with wishbones and a coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality and decent handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety. The suspension was tuned for comfort, resulting in a slightly softer ride compared to sportier Mondeo variants. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Mondeo II 2.0 DI Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and economical family car. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and good fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel sluggish at times, and the engine lacked the punch of higher-output alternatives. Compared to the 1.8-liter petrol versions, the 2.0 DI Automatic offered significantly better fuel economy, but at the cost of some performance. Against competitors like the Vauxhall/Opel Vectra and Volkswagen Passat, the Mondeo II offered a compelling package of value, practicality, and reliability.
Legacy
The Ford Mondeo II 2.0 DI Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain in the long term. The D6BA engine, while not without its potential issues (such as turbocharger wear and common rail injector problems), is generally durable if properly maintained. The automatic transmission is also known for its robustness. Today, these vehicles are readily available on the used car market at affordable prices. They represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a practical and economical family car, but potential buyers should be aware of the age-related maintenance requirements and potential for wear and tear on components like the turbocharger and fuel injectors. The Mondeo II, and this variant in particular, helped solidify Ford’s reputation for building well-rounded and dependable vehicles.
