Ford S-MAX

Ford S-MAX Overview

The second-generation Ford S-MAX was launched in Malaysia back in 2016. The Blue Oval’s seven-seater sports multipurpose vehicle (MPV) is available in the sole 2.0 litre EcoBoost Titanium guise with a price tag starting from RM 221,728 (OTR without insurance).

It was the first vehicle in Ford's model lineup to feature the Kinetic Design design language, featuring sweptback angular headlights and Aston Martin-esque trapezoidal grille. The sports MPV aims to offer sedan-like sporty drive with the practicality and space of an MPV.

Local competition for the S-MAX includes the similarly equipped and priced Volkswagen Sharan, Honda Odyssey, and the more recent Mazda CX-8.

Ford S-MAX Design

The Ford S-MAX features an Aston Martin inspired trapezoidal grille, flanked by a pair of sweptback angular Bi-Xenon headlights with integrated daytime running light. Ford’s ‘Kinetic Design’ is further exemplified in the dynamically slopped bonnet that meets the steeply raked A-pillars.

The sides are characterised by the pronounced wheel arches, well-defined upsloping beltline, and the curved chromed window frames. The air vents on the front fenders are strictly cosmetic but it adds to the MPV’s sporty character. The S-MAX also feature conventional rear doors as opposed to the more convenient sliding doors available on the Volkswagen Sharan.

The wraparound tail lamps and the expansive rear windscreen accentuate the visual width of the car at the rear. The S-MAX inscription on the satin chrome finishing adds a premium touch to the design, punctuated by a sporty twin trapezoidal exhaust exits.

Ford S-MAX Dimension

Based on Ford’s CD4 platform that also underpins the Ford Mondeo, the second-generation Ford S-MAX is 26 mm longer, 31mm wider and 5 mm lower than its predecessor. Despite the increase in dimension, there is no increase in weight, tipping the scale at a little over 1,700kg. The Ford is marginally shorter and lower than the Honda Odyssey, but is significantly wider, by 116 mm to be exact.

Ford S-MAX Interior

An 8-inch infotainment touchscreen display takes centre stage, flanked by a pair of vertical air vents. Button-laden console is logically laid out, but the tiny switches can prove to be a challenge to operate. The leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel is again full of buttons, allowing most controls at your fingertips without having to take your hands off the wheel.

Full leather upholstery is standard, complete with 8-way power adjustable and ventilation function for both the front seats. Middle-row passengers get air-conditioning vents, a storage pocket and a 12-volt power outlet. The seats are individual and have reclining backs which can be slid forwards and backwards.

Space at the third row is sparse to say the least, offering the least legroom compared to its closest competitor. Access to the rear can be a hassle too without a sliding door. There are no air-conditioning vents at the rear too. All round visibility is excellent though thanks to the low window line, expansive windscreens and generously sized front and rear quarter windows. 

Ford S-MAX Features

Standard equipment includes an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with SYNC 2 voice command function, 9-speaker Sony Premium Audio, digital/analog instrument cluster, keyless entry and engine push-start, dual-zone automatic climate control, cruise control and power adjustable front seats with memory, heat, and ventilation function.

Also included is the Fold Flat System (FFS) which allows the rear seats to be folded completely flat, increasing the total cargo carrying capacity. Exterior features include headlamps with anti-dazzle technology, front fog lights, rain sensing wipers and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Ford’s excellent safety features are also present. It comes equipped with seven airbags (front, driver’s knee, side, and curtain) as standard, alongside ESC, roll stability control, ABS, EBD, TCS, hill launch assist, front/rear parking sensors, and lane departure warning and assist. ISOFIX child seat mounting points are available across all three middle-row seats 

Ford S-MAX Driving Performance

Engine

Under the hood is Ford’s 2.0 litre 4-cylinder turbocharged EcoBoost engine, the same engine featured also in the Ford Mondeo. It delivers a respectable 240 PS and 345 Nm of torque with start/stop technology for further fuel saving. 0-100 km/h is achieved in 8.4 seconds, and top speed is rated at 224 km/h. That make the S-MAX one of the quickest MPV in the segment

Transmission

Ford S-MAX Ride Comfort

Ford’s renowned ride and handling is evident here in the Ford S-MAX. Despite the taller body, the ride is composed with great high-speed stability. Based on the same platform that underpins the very capable Ford Mondeo, the MPV held itself well through the bends too. Slight body roll in the corner is inevitable due to its raised ride height, but it is far from detrimental. NVH level is excellent too thanks to excellent sound proofing

Ford S-MAX Fuel Consumption

Ford S-MAX Conclusion

If you love driving but also need space for 7 to carry your family around, there are not many options out there that comes close with what the Ford S-MAX has got to offer. Ford has managed to deliver a practical MPV that drives and handle like a sedan. Interior space may be slightly compromised particularly in the third-row seating, but the thrill and power available behind the wheel surely more than makes up for its shortcoming. A true sport MPV indeed.