If you are a Ford fan that wants something slightly more lavish and practical than the C-MAX, but smaller than the Galaxy, then the S-MAX is what you get. Since it was first shown in public at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show, the S-MAX has carved a mainstay name for itself in the MPV segment, successfully combining no-nonsense practicality with best-in-class driving dynamics.
Also, according to Ford, its S-MAX fan-base is extremely loyal, with 65 per cent of those that buy an S-MAX, buying another one.
As Ford got so much right with the first-generation, the S-MAX has merely seen updates in its eight or nine years on the market, with some slight tweaks in 2010 and now a significant facelift in 2015.
This facelift brings the brand’s now-trademark trapezoidal front grille as well as a host of other aesthetic and technological additions. Ford has also slimmed the headlights and pushed the S-MAX’s A pillar backwards, giving a sportier look and eradicating any chance of it looking excessively plumb.
The model we had on test was the 2.0-litre TDCi with 178bhp mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. This is expected by Ford to be the second best-selling diesel derivative, accounting for 37 per cent of sales. The best-selling will be the 148bhp derivative of the 2.0-litre.
The 178bhp 2.0-litre TDCi is incredibly quiet on the road, with its revs sounding more like whispers – hats off to Ford on the insulation front. It also does a really good job of shifting the S-MAX off the mark, especially when you consider that it weighs 1,726kg, taking 9.7 seconds to reach 62mph. For something with 178bhp, it is surprisingly efficient, emitting just 129g/km of CO2 and claiming to return an average of around 56.5mpg.
As has always been the case, the S-MAX is a pleasure to drive, with a supple suspension and nimble handling that makes it feel like a much smaller car. Four-wheel drive will also be available from launch. The big change coming at the end of 2015 however is the addition of the new Adaptive Steering system, which we got to trial. Expected to be introduced around Christmas time, this new system reduces understeer by utilising a small electric motor in the steering wheel.
This motor essentially helps you turn the steering wheel, cutting down on the amount of times you have to turn the wheel for a full lock. This system really does work, but you can feel the small electric motor kick in ever so slightly, which can be a little disconcerting as it feels a little over-assisted. But maybe we were just looking for it. The system will also bring a range of driving modes, including Standard, Comfort and Sport. It will be an optional extra when it is launched on the S-MAX.
Instantly noticeable interior changes include a Ford SYNC 2 infotainment system. This helps to get rid of what was once cluttered dashboard for a more clean-cut design, a slightly raised centre console and chrome highlights.
Like many other manufacturers are doing nowadays, Ford has tweaked its trim level line-up to allow those who want the privilege of a sporty-looking car but at a lower price. So, what was once Titanium X is now Titanium Sport – although the option to upgrade this trim to Titanium X is available via an optional ‘X Pack’. Titanium models can also be given this upgrade.
Titanium Sport grades bring a full body kit, sports suspension, rear spoiler, 18-inch alloy wheels and heated front seats. We had the optional X Pack – an additional £2,000 over the Titanium Sport model - as we tested the Titanium X model, which brings electrically adjustable front seats with memory function, LED adaptive headlamps and full leather trim.
Prices for the new 2015 Ford S-MAX start from £24,545. Go for the 178bhp 2.0-litre TDCi Titanium X model we had, and you will be looking at around £32,000. The new S-MAX will launch in the summer, with the more luxurious Vignale model to join the range in early 2016.
