This time Ford India is offering only the high-end Ghia petrol version of the Mondeo as against the petrol and diesel versions that were on sale last year.

Company officials said that the decision on the price of the new Mondeo was a strategic one as the company wanted to retain the popularity of the Mondeo and position it aggressively against other luxury cars in that segment.

The new Mondeo is available at dealerships in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Pune, Chandigarh, Karnal and Jaipur. It will also be offered to customers who are eligible to purchase it under the ''export promotion capital goods'' scheme, according to a Ford India press release.

The Mondeo will be available in three colours - panther black, platinum and steel mist. The release quoted David E Friedman, managing director and president, Ford India Ltd, as saying that the new Mondeo had refined styling and enhanced luxurious interiors.