IAIN DOOLEY checks out Ford's popular Mondeo. In estate form the car boasts a greater carrying capacity than its hatchback counterpart.Engines - In recent years Ford has completely revamped its engine range, with the result that the popular Mondeo offers a wide and competent choice of petrol and diesel motors.

IAIN DOOLEY checks out Ford's popular Mondeo. In estate form the car boasts a greater carrying capacity than its hatchback counterpart.

Engines - In recent years Ford has completely revamped its engine range, with the result that the popular Mondeo offers a wide and competent choice of petrol and diesel motors. For high-mileage drivers it's hard to beat Ford's TDCi diesels, thanks to high levels of refinement and economy.

Exterior - The Mondeo has steadily evolved into a sharp-looking machine, and this iteration boasts clean lines, a modest amount of chrome detailing and, in estate form, a streamlined profile.

Interior - High-quality materials are everywhere in the Mondeo's cabin - this is not the stereotypical 'repmobile' of old. There's also plenty of room for occupants fore and aft, while at the back the car's flat load area offers plenty of possibilities and easily matches that of more expensive machinery.

Driving - Through the years the Mondeo has rightfully earned a reputation for being an enjoyable car to drive. That said, Ford's focus on entertaining the driver has been helped elevate it above the competition. Factor in a supple ride and a range of competent engines and it's hard to find fault - even in estate-car guise.

Ownership - With what seems like a Ford dealer on every street corner, seeking help or a routine service is never likely to be a problem. The Mondeo is also an easy car to live with. It's quite a big car these days but it never feels that way when on the road. And because it is such a refined and quiet car it's hard to believe that it's not a product of a luxury German manufacturer.

What to look for - A Mondeo can be seen in two different lights. On one hand is the hard-working company car, and the other the treasured private purchase from new. As long as the former has been regularly serviced, treated well and there's the service history to prove it you shouldn't have any problems. The beauty of the latter is you can often talk to the owner, although the same checks should be made for peace of mind.

Model history - 2007, latest-generation Mondeo boasts a mild facelift and benefits from a detailed overhaul inside and out. High levels of standard kit and a wide choice of petrol and diesel engines are the norm here. The estate boasts plenty of load space and rear seats that fold forward.

Reasons to buy - Practical, affordable, engine range, plenty of choice.

Reasons to beware - Poorly-maintained high-mileage cars, low-powered models might struggle if car is regularly fully loaded.

Pick of the range - Mondeo Estate 2.0 TDCi Zetec.

What to pay - 2007 07 �10,475; 2007 57 �11,000; 2008 08 �12,325; 2008 58 �12,825; 2009 09 �13,900; 2009 59 �14,525; 2010 59 �15,050. Figures relate to showroom prices for cars in A1 condition.