Skip advert
Advertisement
In-depth reviews

Ford S-MAX MPV (2006-2014)

“The Ford S-MAX is a very spacious and practical MPV, but crucially it’s also great to drive, so there’s no need to sacrifice fun for a bigger family.”

Carbuyer Rating

4.2 out of 5

Owners Rating

4.4 out of 5

Read owner reviews

Pros

  • Fits three kids in a row
  • Neat interior design
  • Good fun to drive

Cons

  • Limited boot when rear seats up
  • No airbags in the very back
  • High running costs

The Ford S-MAX people carrier proves that a practical seven-seater needn’t look like a bus or be dull to drive. Although the S-MAX was introduced back in 2006 (and facelifted in 2010), it’s still the best MPV behind the wheel, and its interior is every bit as spacious and versatile as rivals’ such as the Peugeot 5008 and Renault Grand Scenic.

Advertisement - Article continues below

They are cheaper to buy, though – as is the Citroen C4 Grand Picasso, which is also better equipped for the money. However, you can reduce the hit with a good purchase discount, which should be easier to come by as dealers clear stock for the arrival of the all-new S-MAX in 2015.

As in most rivals, the five rear seats in the Ford S-MAX can each be folded individually to suit your needs; the second-row seats slide and recline, too, and folding them all flat frees up enough luggage space to rival a van. The third-row seats are cramped, however, so if you regularly need to seat adults there, consider the bigger Ford Galaxy or SEAT Alhambra.

The engine line-up comprises Ford’s punchy EcoBoost petrol engines and efficient TDCi diesels. We’d choose one of the latter; the 138bhp 2.0-litre diesel, in particular, is both gutsy and economical, promising a decent 53mpg. It also costs just a few hundred pounds more than the 113bhp 1.6-litre diesel, which feels underpowered and is no more efficient. The stronger 161bhp 2.0-litre diesel, meanwhile, comes only in mid-range Titanium trim, so it costs an extra £2,500. The automatic gearbox is smooth and effective, and only slightly reduces fuel economy.

Most owners will find everything they need in entry-level Zetec trim, including front and rear parking sensors and Bluetooth phone connectivity. Titanium brings a DAB digital radio and the option to choose a £1,400 touchscreen sat nav, but costs a lot more. Titanium X Sport adds leather, various sporty details and lower suspension.

All S-MAX models have plenty of airbags and a five-star Euro NCAP rating. Traction and electronic stability control are standard on all models, and there are optional safety features, too.

Skip advert
Advertisement

Richard is a former editor of Carbuyer, as well as sister site DrivingElectric.com, and he's now Deputy Editor at Auto Express. Having spent a decade working in the automotive industry, he understands exactly what makes new car buyers tick.

Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Best new car deals 2024: this week’s top car offers
Carbuyer best new car deals hero
Deals
28 Mar 2024

Best new car deals 2024: this week’s top car offers

Average speed cameras: how do they work?
Average speed cameras: how do they work?
Tips and advice
21 Mar 2024

Average speed cameras: how do they work?

Skoda Karoq review – it ticks all the family SUV boxes
Skoda Karoq SportLine
In-depth reviews
26 Mar 2024

Skoda Karoq review – it ticks all the family SUV boxes

Tips & advice

View All
Car dashboard warning lights: the complete guide
Car dashboard symbols and meanings
Tips and advice
26 Mar 2024

Car dashboard warning lights: the complete guide

Electric car charging stations: a complete guide
Public EV charge point
Tips and advice
11 Jan 2023

Electric car charging stations: a complete guide

PCP vs HP – which type of car finance is right for you?
PCP vs HP
Tips and advice
17 May 2022

PCP vs HP – which type of car finance is right for you?

Average speed cameras: how do they work?
Average speed cameras: how do they work?
Tips and advice
21 Mar 2024

Average speed cameras: how do they work?

Best cars

View All
Top 10 best car interiors
Peugeot 208 hatchback
Best cars
25 Jun 2021

Top 10 best car interiors

Top 10 best electric cars 2024
best electric cars
Best cars
28 Mar 2024

Top 10 best electric cars 2024

Top 10 best cheap-to-run cars 2024
The best cheap-to-run cars 2023
Best cars
2 Jan 2024

Top 10 best cheap-to-run cars 2024

The UK's top 10 fastest hot hatchbacks 2024
Fastest hot hatchbacks hero
Best cars
2 Jan 2024

The UK's top 10 fastest hot hatchbacks 2024