FORD dealers could soon be making some of their customers an offer they cannot refuse. As many as 40 dealers are in line to be supplied with pre-production examples of the sensational new Cougar coupe so potential fleet and private buyers can be given a test drive months before the car goes on sale this summer.

Despite being low-slung, the sporty 2.0 and 2.5-litre Mondeo variant offers full space for four occupants and will be marketed as a viable alternative company car. Engineered for sporting performance, equipment will include new head and chest airbags, ABS brakes, air conditioning and power tilt/slide sunroof.