Ford S-Max

Almost the perfect MPV

2007 (57)

First off, I like the S-Max. Its comfy, handles well, is very well built, and makes excellent use of the road space it takes up. The only major downside is that road space.

So, comfort first, starting with my back and backside. Couldn't be much better really. I'm picky about seats, and tend to prefer Volvo seats to any others, but recent Fords from the Focus up are pretty much up to scratch now and way better than VW, Mercedes, Renault, Vauxhall etc etc.

Start the S-Max up, get under way, and the next thing you notice is how smooth and quiet it is. No hint of vanniness at all. No problem with potholes at all. Very relaxing.

What about when the going gets twisty though. Surprisingly for me, again, no problems. It handles like a car with the only downside being the width on narrow roads, a problem I believe it shares with the Mondeo. Of course, compared with a Mondeo the higher driving position means you can see farther ahead, so I suspect it is actually easier to drive an S-Max in the country than to drive a Mondeo there.

The width and length do make for a very light, airy interior, which is great for rear seat passengers. I would prefer a little less width though.

As for the body, it is up to the standard that used to be reserved for "premium" brands. Really. Open and close the doors in the dark, feel the surfaces in the dark, and I bet most people couldn't tell the difference between this and a Merc.

The drivetrain is also (mostly) a peach in the diesel I drove. The gearbox, clutch, and brakes are all up to Ford's current high standard. The one let down was the engine mapping which made quick getaways from standstill into fast traffic more 'exciting' than they need or ought to be. Basically you press your foot on the accelerator and far too little happens in the first second or so, so you press a bit more. But by this time the turbo has spooled up and you get a sudden rush of torque causing the wheels to spin and passers by to think you are a boy or girl racer. I think this was fixed in updates and newer vehicles off the line.

Fuel economy is also very good, even on tight, twisty mountain roads. It does fall of there (not the road, just the economy!) but never as much as I expected.

Really, this car is simply very, very good. Make it a bit narrower, fix that engine mapping and this would be about the perfect car for a family with teenagers.

Mr M Coupar