The new Ford Mondeo, the European version of the Fusion, has been announced for debut at the upcoming auto show in Paris. The new Modeno will be offered at launch with the superb 125 hp 1.0 liter three-cylinder Ecoboost, and in five-door, wagon and four-door variants. The sedan version will also be available as petrol Hybrid Electric Vehicle. There will also be a diesel Mondeo, but for the first time with all-wheel-drive.

The new Hybrid version, a first for the Mondeo and this class, combines a specially-developed 2.0-litre petrol engine with a 35kW lithium-ion battery to provide  high fuel economy and low CO₂emissions. Ratings are yet to be announced, but this and the 1.0 liter engine will make the Mondeo one of the most fuel efficient cars in this segment.

More important than the technicalities, however, is the way the new Ford Mondeo looks. Those familiar with the old models will be shocked to see how much better the new version is. At front the car has the proportions of an Aston Martin, but as you walk toward the rear, it becomes more Mondeo-ish. The rear-end has Ford’s signature design. Mondeo is the first Ford to feature headlamps with LED high-beam, low-beam and signal lighting.

The interior of the 2013 model is also much improved and offers new levels of ergonomics and comfort, with superior craftsmanship throughout the driver-focused cockpit. Soft-touch materials, premium finishes and equipment contribute to the most premium Mondeo experience ever.

All European models benefit from SYNC with MyFord Touch, a voice-activated in-car connectivity system, and Ford’s rear inflatable seatbelts.