What came after the Ford Granada?
Directly, Ford moved the Granada’s role onward with the introduction of the Ford Scorpio in the mid-1980s, and later the Mondeo became the central mid-size model in the 1990s. In many markets, the Granada badge faded by the end of the decade as Ford shifted to newer names and body styles.
The question asks which model and branding followed the Ford Granada in Ford’s European lineup, and how the lineup evolved afterward. This article traces the direct successor and the broader shift that shaped Ford’s mid-size and executive cars across Europe.
Direct successor: the Scorpio era
The Ford Scorpio was introduced in 1985 as the flagship large family/executive car, effectively replacing the Granada as Ford’s top offering in that segment in many markets. It shared engineering DNA with the Granada and Sierra platforms but aimed to deliver more space and a more upscale feel for buyers seeking comfort over outright sportiness.
Key milestones in this transition include:
- 1985: Ford Scorpio launches as the new top-end model in Ford’s European line-up.
- Late 1980s to mid-1990s: Scorpio receives updates to engines, styling, and trim levels to stay competitive.
- Late 1990s: Scorpio production winds down in many markets as Ford shifts focus to newer platforms.
In summary, the Scorpio served as the direct successor, carrying forward the Granada’s market segment before Ford restructured its lineup in the 1990s.
Mid-1990s shift: Mondeo era and the end of the Granada line
As Ford reorganized its European lineup to align with changing buyer preferences, the Mondeo arrived in the early 1990s (beginning around 1993–1994 in various markets) as Ford’s new global mid-size sedan/hatchback. The Mondeo became the mainstay mid-size model in Europe, gradually eclipsing the Granada’s role, while the Granada badge faded from new cars in many regions.
Key milestones in this transition:
- 1993/1994: Mondeo debuts as Ford’s new global mid-size model, replacing older Sierra-based designs in many markets.
- Mid-to-late 1990s: The Granada name is phased out in most markets; Mondeo becomes Ford’s principal mid-size sedan. Over the 2000s and 2010s, Ford’s European lineup increasingly prioritizes SUVs and crossovers, with sedan offerings reduced in some regions.
In essence, the Mondeo era marks a broader modernization of Ford’s European lineup, with the Granada badge becoming a historical footnote rather than an active model line.
Regional variations and broader context
Ford’s product naming and model availability varied by market. The Granada appeared as a Europe-only model, with the Scorpio serving as a direct replacement in many markets. In North America, Ford did not sell the Granada as such; the evolution of the European lineup was driven by regional strategies and consumer tastes, including the shift toward family crossovers and SUVs in the 21st century.
Summary
The Ford Scorpio was the immediate successor to the Granada, launching in 1985 to carry the large, comfortable executive-car tradition forward. In the 1990s, Ford pivoted to the Mondeo as its new global mid-size model, and the Granada name gradually faded from new cars. This progression reflects Ford’s broader European strategy: refreshing model lines, rebranding when needed, and eventually prioritizing crossovers and SUVs as consumer demand evolved.
Notes for enthusiasts
For fans tracing Ford’s European history, the Granada–Scorpio–Mondeo arc illustrates how branding and platform-sharing shaped a generation of cars, balancing tradition with the need to adopt newer engines, safety features, and design language.
When did Ford stop making the Granada?
The all-new Granada was also a hit with the critics, claiming the European Car of the Year in 1986. Did You Know?: Ford changed the name to Scorpio in 1994 and production continued to 1998, when it was finally pulled from production after on 95,587 units were sold.
What is the difference between Ford Granada and Cortina?
Yes they are the same car but had different engine options and Cortinas had higher specification interiors. There was also a Taunus 2 door but not a Cortina mk4 or mk5 2 door. The car was developed jointly between Ford UK in Dagenham and Koln in Germany so not strictly speaking only a German car.
What followed the Ford Granada?
The Ford Granada Mk III was the last car to bear the Granada badge in the UK and Ireland, being replaced in 1994 with the pan-European Scorpio. The Scorpio shared its platform doors and roof with the Mk III Granada.
What is the difference between a Ford Consul and Granada?
The Consul and Granada were offered as four-door saloons, five-door estates and a two-door fastback coupe (from 1974 in the UK), with the higher-spec Granada including more luxurious fittings, including rev counter, oil pressure gauge, ammeter, rear ventilation control, and a larger centre console.
