Ford axes diesel engines from Kuga SUV range as part of range rejig
Mondeo, S-Max and Galaxy are also no longer available with Diesel engines (09-12-2021)
An MPV, which is commonly referred to as a people carrier, isn't quite the most fashionable or desirable car type on the market. However, that doesn't mean there aren't some great-looking options. One of the most popular choices for a five-seat compact MPV is the fantastic Ford C-Max. This people carrier is basically a Focus on steroids, and it offers a considerable amount of seating flexibility and overall practicality. What makes the C-Max stand out from competitors is that quintessential Ford driving experience - excellent handling, and plenty of powerful, efficient engines. The Ford C-Max is no longer manufacturer by Ford, but you can still get your hands on this fantastic MPV.
CarShop Wakefield
Gates of Stortford
Big Motoring World West Malling
Dinnages Ford Haywards Heath
Hendy Ford Fareham
Sussex Trade Centres
Motorworld wm limited
Moulsham Motor Co (PMC)
CarShop Northampton
Charles Hurst Usedirect - Premium Direct Dundonald
GT Garages (Scarborough) Ltd
Arnold Clark Motorstore (Leeds)
Dyals Cars
Like most seven-seaters, this vehicle is clearly intended to be used for large families. As is common in seven-seaters, the rear seats have limited legroom and shoulder room. Adults, particularly if they are tall, will find these seats uncomfortable, but children will have no problem. There are ISOFIX mounts for child seats, and the sliding door makes it easy to lift toddlers in and out of the car. However, the Grand C Max's low safety rating may be a cause for concern for parents and is an important factor to bear in mind when choosing a family car.
The latest generation of the Ford Grand C Max, launched in 2017, received three stars in its Euro NCAP rating. Specifically, it was awarded 76% for adult safety and 60% for child safety. There are limited airbags in the rear of the vehicle. An airbag cut-off switch for children in the passenger seat is not part of the standard equipment but can be included as part of an upgraded safety pack.
There are both petrol and diesel options available for the Ford C Max Grand. To keep running costs down, the best option is probably the 1.5 litre TDCi diesel. Ford's EcoBoost technology has also been introduced to the C Max Grand line, in the form of an EcoBoost 1.6 unit with 150 bhp.
Adults will find it difficult to sit in the rear row of seats for long periods of time. However, the central row is roomier. To create more space, the smallest seat in the central row can be removed. This quick and easy process leaves more room for passengers to stretch their legs and is a good idea if you tend to travel with fewer than seven in the car.
For the European market, the Ford Grand C Max is manufactured in Valencia, Spain, and Saarlouis, Germany.
The Ford C-Max is all about practicality, so it's only available as a compact, 5-door MPV. Ford's intelligent design makes the C-Max quite a good-looking car. It's got athletic angles and somehow manages to look sporty. The C-Max also avoids the pitfall of looking boxy and bland. In terms of practicality, the Ford C-Max is clearly intended for families and makes the perfect vehicle for family road trips. The C-Max is also great fun to drive, thanks to Ford's brilliant engines and suspension technology. The 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine is a highlight.
You'll find the C-Max available in 3 trims - the Zetec, Titanium, and the Titanium X. Fords of the past have often been criticised for having lacklustre features and tech. However, the American automakers have recently upped their game in this area. As such, most of the recent Ford C-Max MPVs have a great range of technology on offer, all for a reasonable price. Don't expect Mercedes or BMW levels of tech, but it's more than enough to make your everyday life that little bit easier. Affordability is an important selling point for the C-Max, and even the entry-level Zetec trim has plenty of great features.
The Ford C-Max is clearly a sensible and practical purchase, ideal for families who need a little bit more space than a typical hatchback can offer. The practicality is excellent, and the seating space is particularly good. You could easily fit 3 tall adults in the back seats with no complaints. The boot space is also great, and you'll have no issues making that IKEA trip. However, don't be fooled into thinking that the C-Max is a dull affair to drive. Ford is renowned for making powerful vehicles that handle well, and the C-Max is no different. Perfect on the motorway, in the town, and a blast on winding country roads, this MPV really offers the best of both worlds. It proves that you don't have to sacrifice fun to have a practical car that suits your family.
MPVs usually have a pretty uninspired design - they're built for function, and the aesthetics of the vehicle tends to come second. Thankfully though, the Ford C-Max is a great looking car. The exterior matches Ford's other cars, like the Fiesta, and looks very sporty. It has slick angles and doesn't look too blocky - making it stand out amongst more generic-looking competitors. Inside, the C-Max is just as lovely. The dashboard is nice and simple, with an excellent infotainment screen front and centre (on most trims). Materials are all high quality, and while it's not exactly luxurious, it's more than comfortable enough for the whole family. Fords tend to hold their value quite well, so you'll be able to get a decent resale value back on the C-Max down the line.
Motoring news from around the country