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Ford S-Max MPV 1.8 TDCi LX 5spd

For:
The S-Max offers sharp handling and a comfortable ride. It also has a practical interior, and is refined and keenly priced.

Against:
Cheaper models miss some equipment, and the rear pair of seats are best suited to kids. The 2.5-litre engine is thirsty, too.



Performance

The S-Max has two petrol engines (a 143bhp 2.0-litre unit and a 217bhp turbocharged 2.5-litre motor), and three turbodiesels (a 123bhp 1.8-litre, a 138bhp 2.0-litre and a 173bhp 2.2-litre). The 2.5-litre petrol is a version of the Focus ST's engine. The 2.0-litre diesel is a good performer, but the 2.2 TDCi makes the S-Max feel more alive, with greater in-gear performance, while still returning over 40mpg.

Ride & handling

Ford reckons the S-Max is an MPV for those that enjoy driving. We agree; informative steering, plenty of grip and good body control make it sharp on twisty roads. When family duties take priority, the suspension is supple enough to provide good comfort.

Refinement

Although the S-Max's large glass area creates more wind noise than many saloon rivals, it does a great job of shutting out road and suspension noise, so it's an impressively quiet cruiser. The 2.5-litre petrol engine is exceptionally quiet, with just a cultured rumble when extended.

Buying & owning

The S-Max is comparable on price with rivals such as the VW Touran and Toyota Verso, but is much bigger. Running costs will be higher than those of saloon alternatives and the 2.5-litre version is thirsty, but the diesels return at least 45mpg. Residual values aren't bad, but they're not class-leading, either.

Quality & reliability

The interior is more conventional than rivals such as the Citroà«n C8 and Renault Espace, but it's stylish, solidly built and there are soft-touch materials on the top of the dash and doors. Lower down and further back in the vehicle the plastics aren't as good, however.

Safety & security

Every S-Max comes stuffed with airbags - there are front and side airbags for the two front seats, while window airbags cover the front two rows. There's also an airbag to protect the driver's knee. Anti-lock brakes and ESP are standard. An alarm and deadlocks are fitted to all models.

Behind the wheel

The S-Max's driving position is lower than many MPVs'; it's a matter of taste whether this suits you or not. Either way, the seats and steering wheel have plenty of adjustment, and the dash is clear. Visibility is superb thanks to skinny windscreen pillars.

Space & practicality

The S-Max's ample headroom and legroom mean that five people can sit in comfort. Access to the rear seats is good and kids will be happy there, but the low-slung seating position means adults won't relish long journeys. The five rear seats fold flat rather than lift out, and when used as a five-seater there's a huge, well shaped boot. Even with all seven seats in use, there's still space for a couple of bags.

Equipment

There are three trim levels. Edge cars have air-conditioning, a CD player, electric front windows, Bluetooth phone connection and a heated front screen, but you need to step up to Zetec trim to add electric rear windows, alloys, climate control and electric driver's seat adjustment. Titanium models feature a CD changer, automatic lights and wipers, a sun-reflecting windscreen, ambient lighting, chrome door handles and front and rear parking sensors.

Running Costs

Town mpg

35.7

Out of Town mpg

54.3

Average mpg

45.5

Tank Capacity (gallons)

15.4

CO2 Rating (g/km)

164

Insurance Group

10

Typical Insurance Quote

£462

% Value Retained (3yrs/36,000mls)

44

Typical Contract Hire Rate (pcm)

£375

Pence Per Mile

0

Servicing Cost over 3yrs

£0

Servicing Intervals

12500

Manufacturers Warranty

3yr/60k + 3yr Paint + 12yr Perforation + 1yr Breakdown

Performance & Measurements

Body type

MPV

Number of Doors

5

Number of Seats

7

Engine (cc/type)

1753/4

Fuel Type

Diesel

Max Power (bhp/rpm)

123/3850

Engine Position

F

Driven Wheels

Front

Length (mm)

4768

Width (mm)

1884

Height (mm)

1658

Boot Space (min ltr)

285

Boot Space (max ltr)

2000

Turning Circle (m)

11.9

Towing Weight(kg)

2505

Kerb Weight (kg)

1736

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