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Ford New Zealand has confirmed that a high-performance 162kW/320Nm 2.5-litre XR5 turbo and a torquey 103kW/320Nm 2.0-litre diesel engine will join its Mondeo line-up in the second quarter of next year.
The new models will be available from mid-2008, and the XR5 will have a six-speed manual gearbox, while the diesel will boast a six-speed automatic.
The XR5 hatch will carry a "3D metal finish" instrument panel, alloy wheels, blue tinted glass, bright chrome or brushed silver exterior finishing touches, power heated door mirrors with puddle lights, front LED ambient interior lighting and footwell illuminations.
Mondeo customers can choose from a 2.3-litre four-cylinder petrol engine coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission in the Zetec hatch; or, at the entry level, the same 2.3-litre engine or a 2.0-litre four-mated to a five-speed manual in either a four-door sedan or wagon.
The Zetec can be further optioned with "sports pack", which includes 17-inch alloy wheels, a body kit and leather trim.
The Mondeo Zetec turbo diesel (TCDi) hatch will cost $43,490, while the XR5 will be $48,995. The most expensive model in the line-up, the Zetec hatch with sports pack, is $45,490.