THE two new Ford models - the Mondeo and the S-Max - represent the rebirth of Ford, executives from the US carmaker declared at their Singapore launch several days ago. It is easy to see why.

Compared with the dynamic duo, the models before them looked somewhat stodgy, especially the Mondeo. If the styling was relatively sharp, like the Focus, they still lacked the newfound build quality and overall refinement of the new cars.

As the Blue Oval's twin strategies for moving up to a new and higher position on the premium scale, the Mondeo and the S-Max have had a promising start.

The latter was named the 2007 European Car of the Year while the Mondeo has been compared favourably with the BMW 3 Series by the UK press.

Both share the same platform, which is derived from the Volvo S80 (Ford owns Volvo) and gives the two models a spacious interior and dynamic handling abilities.

Ford says the Mondeo is the most technologically advanced car it has ever launched. The sedan and estate variants are built in a state-of-the-art plant in Belgium that allows the model to be made with new laser-brazing technology for a higher quality seam-free method of joining the side and roof panels.

The Mondeo's new positioning is accompanied by the necessary list of active safety features. These include Interactive Vehicle Dynamics with Traction Control and Emergency Brake Assist, and seven airbags, including a driver's knee airbag.

One convenient and more obvious new feature is the Easy Fuel capless refuelling system. The so-called Human Machine Interface allows control of the vehicle settings and trip computer using the steering-mounted toggle switch, thus enhancing driver ergonomics.

Together with the refined chassis and sporty driving characteristics, the new-look Mondeo is suitably transformed for a more upmarket clientele.

What a great start for a new generation.