Ford reveals new S-Max 16 | 09 | 2014
FORD HAS RELEASED the first official images of its second-generation S-Max. Due to be officially unveiled at next month's Paris Motor Show, the new seven-seat MPV will go on-sale across the UK next summer: prices are expected to start around £25,000.
The new S-Max sits on a brand new chassis — which it shares with the new, imminent Mondeo Edge SUV, and Galaxy replacement — and Ford bosses promise an even sportier drive and a more premium cabin
Similar in dimensions to the model it replaces, the second-gen version includes no parts which have been carried over.
There will be a choice of petrol or diesel powerplants. The new 2.0TDCi trubodiesel unit be available in three different states of tune, 118bhp, 148bhp or 178bhp. All three get a ix-speed manual is standard, though a six-speed dual-clutch Powershift auto’ is optional on the 148bhp and 178bhp versions.
Those who prefer petrol get the choice of a new 158bhp 1.5-litre Ecoboost, mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, and a 237bhp 2.0-litre Ecoboost with a conventional automatic.
Related: New Ford Focus starts at £13,995
Not surprisingly, the front of the new S-Max sports the latest Ford family face, first seen in production on the upcoming Mondeo after being previewed on 2011’s Evos coupe concept.
Ford has also tweaked the top-spec Titanium models, which account for up to 60% of S-Max sales. It now gets a rear diffuser with integrated rear tailpipes, plus the optional of up to 19in alloys, as seen on this test car.
Inside the cabin of the new S-Max, Ford designers have focused on making the environment “more luxurious and sophisticated, with premium materials, and simple, useful and easy to use technology”.
That means less switchgear, which has been drastically reduced: many functions are now carried out via an 8in touchscreen which runs Ford’s SYNC 2 infotainment system. In addition, the instrument panel is now digital, and an electric parking brake is standard, which frees up more storage space.
Seven seats will be offered as standard across the S-Max range in the UK, with the three middle row seats all folding flat individually. They can also be slid forwards and reclined to boost access to the two rear seat that fold into the boot floor. As a further boost to luxury and comfort, rear passengers also get the option of their own air-con system.
The new S-Max will also see the introduction of a new raft of technology and options, including an autonomous braking function that can stop the car from speeds 112mph, a panoramic roof, and parking and lane keeping assist systems.
Related: Thorburn powers Ford to Merrick Stages win
Keep up-to-date with all the latest news by following us on twitter.com/Scotcars
Jim McGill