We review the Ford S-Max from price to economy and all its features
THE S-Max was the model that proved that sensible seven-seat family carriers did not have to be an excitement-free zone.
And it lived up to its name by taking driving enjoyment to the max for the entire family — kids have always loved it when Dad thinks he’s Michael Schumacher behind the wheel.
Its coupé-like styling was also a radical design breakthrough for a people carrier. That’s why Ford have resisted major changes and merely finetuned its design.
The bullet-like front end now stands out even more thanks to a more sculpted bonnet together with a new split, gloss black grille.
A new lower front bumper includes distinctive LED daytime running lights, while a new chrome strip surrounds the whole glass area to give it a more premium appearance.
Ford have also tidied up the S-Max’s previously heavy-looking rear end with a redesigned tailgate and new LED tail-lights.
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Unlike the majority of stodgy people carriers the S-Max looks lithe and agile — it’s a model you’d want to drive even with five kids on board. And Ford have upped the driving pleasure by adding a sweet new 2-litre turbocharged petrol engine that is not only quicker than the 2.3-litre it replaces, but more economical and with better CO2.
Ford see the EcoBoost engine as capable of winning over diesel buyers with its refinement, green-ness and a fuel economy that gets around 35mpg. The only trouble is that figure tends to drop slightly if you enjoy the performance to the full.
But if economy is your first priority then go for one of three power options for the 2-litre turbo diesel — they boost economy up to 49.5mpg and reduce emissions to 152g/km.
Whichever engine you choose, though, gives you a big people carrier that delivers the handling and ride capabilities you’d expect from a sporty saloon.
It’s easy to forget it is actually 4,772mm long and 2,154mm wide because it holds the road with such composure. It also cruises happily in excess of the motorway limit and there’s acres of space for tall adults in a second row of seats that recline.
The third row is very much a kiddie zone. If you use them, luggage space is strictly limited, but fold the seats away and you get a very handy 1,072 litres, Ford are still finalising the S-Max prices. It’s likely to start at just under £20,000 when it comes out in April. That always seems expensive for a Ford but if it had a German badge it would start around £30,000. And the reality is it looks as good and drives better.