ANYONE eyeing the new Ford Mondeo sedan is likely to be immediately impressed by two things - the Aston Martin-like front grille and its surprisingly good value for money. These contrasting attributes are found on a car that looks familiar but is actually brand new.

Designed as Ford's world car, this latest Mondeo boasts novel hydroformed steel for its bodywork. Hydroforming uses water to press the sheet metal. It produces stronger and lighter body panels compared to traditional metal stamping as no heat is generated to stress the metal, thus allowing the sheets to be thinner and more rigid.

Together with the new and lighter suspension - front MacPherson struts and rear multi-links - the result is a quiet ride with low levels of noise, vibration and harshness. The Mondeo may have a non-luxury oval badge on the grille but its cabin has the same calmness as a high-end model costing more.