The Ford Mondeo III Hatchback 2.0 TDCi, producing 130 horsepower, was a significant offering in the European market from 2007 to 2008. Positioned as a mid-range trim within the Mondeo III lineup, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency with respectable performance for family and fleet buyers. This variant utilized a modern turbodiesel engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, catering to drivers seeking convenience and ease of use. The Mondeo III, built on the B72 platform, represented Ford’s continued commitment to a competitive family car, offering a spacious interior and a focus on driving dynamics.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Mondeo |
| Generation | Mondeo III Hatchback |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDCi (130 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp, 86.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 212.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1750 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | AZBA, AZWA |
| Engine displacement | 1997 cm3 (121.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8.1 l (8.56 US qt | 7.13 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1503 kg (3313.55 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2190 kg (4828.12 lbs.) |
| Max load | 687 kg (1514.58 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 486 l (17.16 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1460 l (51.56 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4778 mm (188.11 in.) |
| Width | 1886 mm (74.25 in.) |
| Height | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm (112.2 in.) |
| Front track | 1522 mm (59.92 in.) |
| Rear track | 1537 mm (60.51 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.1 m (36.42 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Mondeo III 2.0 TDCi was the AZBA or AZWA engine, a four-cylinder, inline diesel engine displacing 1997cc. This engine was part of Ford’s Duratorq family, known for its robust construction and relatively good fuel economy. The engine featured a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler was employed to boost power output and improve torque across a wider rev range. The engine utilized four valves per cylinder and a single overhead camshaft. The six-speed automatic transmission, often a Durashift variant, was designed to provide smooth gear changes and contribute to the car’s overall refinement. This transmission featured a torque converter and electronic control for optimized shift points based on driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 130 horsepower and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 2.0 TDCi engine, when coupled with the six-speed automatic, resulted in a comfortable and capable driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10.4 seconds, which was adequate for everyday driving but noticeably slower than the higher-powered 2.2 TDCi or petrol-powered Mondeos. The automatic transmission, while convenient, did slightly diminish the engine’s responsiveness compared to a manual gearbox. Gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine didn’t always feel particularly eager to rev. However, the readily available torque at low RPMs made it well-suited for overtaking and cruising on highways. The automatic transmission’s shift logic prioritized smoothness over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TDCi automatic typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a CD player with basic audio controls, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as Titanium, added features like alloy wheels, upgraded interior trim, automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers, and a more sophisticated audio system. Optional extras included a sunroof, leather upholstery, and a navigation system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with higher trims offering partial leather options. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over flashy design.
Chassis & Braking
The Mondeo III utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The 2.0 TDCi variant, being a mid-range model, typically featured ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. ABS was standard, providing enhanced braking control. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension was tuned to provide a comfortable ride, but it wasn’t as sporty as some of its rivals.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mondeo III 2.0 TDCi automatic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical family car. It offered a good compromise between performance, fuel efficiency, and comfort. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel a little sluggish at times, and the engine lacked the outright punch of the larger 2.2 TDCi. Compared to the petrol-powered Mondeos, the 2.0 TDCi offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a popular choice for high-mileage drivers. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and the automatic transmission.
Legacy
The Ford Mondeo III 2.0 TDCi automatic remains a relatively common sight on used car lots today. The Duratorq engine is known for its durability, and with proper maintenance, it can provide many years of reliable service. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for DPF issues and the cost of repairing or replacing the automatic transmission. The Mondeo III established a strong reputation for practicality and value, and the 2.0 TDCi variant continues to offer a compelling option for those seeking an affordable and economical family car.
