The Mondeo has a stellar reputation in the UK, having appeared in the nation's top 10 favourite cars every year since its launch in 1993 and selling more than 1.5 million example. First seen in prototype guise at the Paris motor show and then making a cameo in the latest James Bond film, the new Ford Mondeo has a lot to live up to. And it looks like it's got what it takes.

The latest iteration of the Mondeo employs Ford's 'kinetic design' language, creating a distinctive front end with bevelled corners and a deep offset between the top of the bonnet and the front wings. A muscular shoulder line accentuates the flanks - rising gradually toward the rear - while a strong undercut line runs from the front wheel arches through the side of the car.

Three distinct body styles will be available from launch: a saloon, five-door hatchback and an estate. Within these are four distinct trim levels: the entry-level Edge, mid-spec Zetec, and the top of the range Ghia and Titanium X models.

Power for the new Mondeo will be supplied by a range of Duratorq diesels and Duratec petrol engines. The diesel units can be specified in 1.8-litre or 2-litre guise, with power ratings between 99bhp and 138bhp. The low-range 1.8-litre will be fitted with a five-speed manual transmission and a six-speed will be available in the 123bhp version. The 2-litre can be ordered with either a six-speed manual or 'Durashift' automatic, but the auto option has just 128bhp.

There are four petrol engines to choose from. Four-cylinder units consist of a 1.6-litre with 108bhp or 123bhp, a 2-litre with 143bhp, or a new 2.3-litre with 159bhp. Topping the range is a 2.5-litre five-cylinder powerplant with 217bhp mated to a six-speed automatic. Transmission options for the four-cylinder engines include a five-speed manual for the 1.6- and 2-litre, while the 2.3-litre gets the six-speed auto.

Inside the driver-oriented cockpit is a high beltline and flow-through centre console which combine to create a cosseted feel for occupants. 'Piano black' interior styling accents and soft-touch materials give the car more luxury appeal than its predecessor, and extensive use of ambient lighting emphasises quality and refinement.

The new Ford Mondeo aims to please in the features department. Standard equipment across the range includes ESP, a capless refuelling system with fuel inhibitor (to prevent misfuelling), a Thatcham alarm, air conditioning, and an MP3 connector socket. Keyless entry and start, a new 'Human Machine Interface' (HMI) instrument display, adaptive cruise control, and interactive vehicle dynamics control with hill launch assist round out the list of available options.

We'll take a closer look at the car for ourselves at Geneva with the first drive in a few months. Keep an eye on the Ford Road Tests page.