More details on Ford's next-generation Mondeo

Late last month reports from Germany were claiming Ford’s next-generation Mondeo sedan, due around 2012-13, would be given the four-door coupe treatment, and now we have a new rendering of the what the popular midsizer could look like. New reports claim the four-door will be a premium variant that will sell alongside the regular sedan and hatch models, similar to Volkswagen’s new CC, which sells alongside the Passat sedan and wagon.

Speaking with CAR, an inside source revealed the current ‘kinetic’ design theme will be replaced with a new design language that’s expected to feature much softer and smoother lines. However, the car’s mechanicals will be largely based on the current model, which means its FWD powertrain will remain.

The wheelbase, width and length will be changed, and the platform could even spawn other bodystyles such as a coupe or crossover-SUV. The only parts that will remain relatively unchanged will be the independent suspension, basic vehicle architecture and key drivetrain components.

As the flagship in the new Mondeo range, the four-door coupe model will get several premium features the sedan and hatch will likely miss out on. These include active steering in sync with active lane departure and cruise control systems. There will also be a new electronic interface system, advanced diesel and hybrid options and air-suspension.