FORD will replace the Mondeo TDdi with a lower-power version of the common rail TDCi engine in the last quarter of this year.

The 113bhp 2.0TDdi engine was launched with the latest Mondeo in November 2000, but customers had to wait until this year for a 128bhp common rail diesel version which was sold alongside the less powerful unit.

Now, Ford plans to replace the TDdi unit with a 113bhp version of the 2.0 litre TDCi engine. The new car follows the launch of a 99bhp version of the Ford Focus 1.8TDCi as a less powerful and cheaper alternative to the 113bhp 1.8TDCi. Prices, emissions and fuel consumption figures will be released nearer its launch.