Ford reveals new B-Max 07 | 03 | 2012

FORD UNVEILED A production-ready version of its new B-Max at the Geneva Motor Show. The newcomer will go head-to-head with established model, the Vauxhall Meriva, Citroën C3 Picasso and Renault Scenic.

One of the main innovations of the B-Max is the absence of B-pillars, plus the addition of rear sliding doors. Staying true to last year's concept, the design is unprecedented in the segment

It's worth highlighting that though the larger Grand C-Max also offers rear sliding doors, it retains conventional B-pillars.

Bringing the B-Max to production demanded a new approach to door construction with the centre pillars integrated into the doors themselves. Ford says the doors allow wider access for the driver, passengers and luggage.

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Ford has confirmed that its new 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine will be available on the B-Max, as will Duratorq TDCi diesels.

Ford also claims the new B-Max will offer best-in-class load space. Its biggest rival, the Meriva, offers 397 litres of load capacity with the rear seats up and 1496 litres with the rear seats folded flat.

Stephen Odell, chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe, said the new car was created “in response to the needs of an increasing number of customers who want much more from their small cars”.

When it enters Scottish showrooms in September, the B-Max will include Ford’s all-new turbocharged three-cylinder, 1.0-litre Ecoboost petrol engine, along with the firm’s smaller-capacity Duratorq TDCi diesels.

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Jim McGill