First Drive: Ford S-Max

What is it? One exception to the widespread replacement of MPVs with SUVs is Ford, with its S-Max and Galaxy seven-seaters both benefitting from a new hybrid powertrain that aims to keep these models going. What’s new? This latest S-Max Hybrid comes from investment into the brand’s Barcelona plant, with this powertrain also appearing in the new Kuga and Galaxy. It’s an all-new setup for Ford and is currently the only hybrid MPV of its kind. What’s under the bonnet? For the S-Max Hybrid, Ford combines a 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine with a 1.1kWh battery and electric motor, with front-wheel drive via a CVT automatic transmission. It kicks out 187bhp, goes from 0-60mph time in 9.6 seconds and has a 115mph top speed, though most will choose the Hybrid for the efficiency benefits, with its 147g/km CO2 emissions being 10 per cent lower than the diesel’s. Ford claims a fuel economy figure of 44.1mpg but we averaged 50mpg during testing, giving us a 600-plus mile range. What’s it like to drive? The S-Max is rather good to drive, feeling more like a hatchback than a big sevenseater through corners, yet at the same time is a comfortable cruiser with a compliant ride. The hybrid system is also one of the best ‘selfcharging’ setups around and will even run as an EV for short bursts, which helps on efficiency. The CVT gearbox does somewhat sap performance when accelerating, but is largely quite a good fit.

How does it look? The S-Max isn’t bad-looking. In our test car’s ST-Line trim, it gets large two-tone 18-inch alloy wheels, a sporty body kit and a range of gloss black touches. We reckon a seven-seat people carrier has never looked so good. What’s it like inside? The interior layout is very much ‘old Ford’, with none of the digital dials and minimalist layout in the brand’s most modern models. However, the S-Max is practical, offering a flexible seating arrangement and three rows of seats that lets seven adults sit relatively comfortably. With just two front seats in position, it offers a huge 2,020 litres of boot space. What’s the spec like? The Hybrid is available in the same trio of trims as the standard S-Max – Titanium, ST-Line and Vignale. Standard equipment is generous with keyless entry, front and rear parking sensors and an eight-inch touchscreen, but ST-Line would be our pick, adding electric and heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. However, only the top-spec Vignale model comes with an electric boot and LED headlights, as well as a reversing camera and massaging leather seats. Prices start from £36,530 for a Titanium and rise to £41,790 for the Vignale. Verdict - The Ford S-Max is arguably better to drive and more spacious than many similarly-sized SUVs. The new hybrid powertrain gives the S-Max a further lifeline, and its efficiency will likely impress. Though pricey and not up-to-date inside, it remains one of the better seven-seaters on the market and a brilliant large family car. To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

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