Sorry to hear about your HSV mate.
I had a Zed before my 'Ro and loved it. 2 seats were it's only problem, that and **** poor paint.
Power wise the Zed I felt held it's own and corners very well and unlike your HSV it has ESP which will sort you out if it all goes a bit hairy.
As Sarnie says the later models have a bit more poke, but it's not a great leap TBH.
The interior is a bit flimsy, but does look a bit more bespoke than a Mondeo I'd imagine
Good luck, shop around and try the rivals, but the Zed will win the battle of 2 seaters