Ford S-Max MPV full 9 point review
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Performance
The entry-level engine is a 2.0-litre petrol with an adequate 143bhp, but it's no match for the turbocharged 2.0 Ecoboost SCTi petrol engine, which is smooth and incredibly strong. Most buyers will go for one of the TDCi diesels, however - there are units with either 113, 138 or 161bhp. All are flexible, but if you've got a full complement of passengers the 113bhp unit will require a fair bit of effort.
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Ride & Handling
MPVs don't get any more enjoyable to drive than the S-Max, which seems to shrink around you when you're behind the wheel. Informative steering, plenty of grip and good body control make it sharp on twisty roads, but when family duties take priority, the suspension is supple enough to provide good comfort. Top marks.
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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 2.0 Ecoboost SCTi and 2.0 TDCi engine are quiet and silky-smooth and all of the controls work with well-engineered precision.
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Buying & Owning
The S-Max is expensive compared with many rivals, particularly the likes of the Peugeot 5008 and Citroen Grand C4 Picasso, even if it's a bit bigger and entry-level versions have more kit. There are sizeable discounts to be had on the list price, though. Diesel versions are very economical, but residual values aren't particularly strong.
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Quality & Reliability
The interior is more conventional than rivals such as the Citroen Grand C4 Picasso, but it's stylish, solidly built and there are appealing soft-touch materials on the top of the dash and doors. Lower down and further back in the vehicle the plastics aren't as plush, but the S-Max should stand up to the rigours of family life.
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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.
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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.
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Space & Practicality
The S-Max's ample headroom and legroom mean that five people can sit in comfort and its useful width comes in handy if you're fitting child seats in the back. Access to the rear-most 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 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.
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Equipment
There are three trim levels. Zetec cars come well stocked with 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 have a CD changer, automatic lights and wipers, a sun-reflecting windscreen, ambient lighting, chrome door handles and front and rear parking sensors.
S-Max rivals
S-Max used car reviews
Ford S-Max MPV 2.0 TDCi 140 Zetec 5dr
Out of all the S-Maxs on offer, this is the best. The engine provides strong, smooth power and reasonable running costs, while Zetec trim gives you all the kit you need at a reasonable price.
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