Test drive Ford S-Max: Living area

The second generation of the model clearly shows that the vans are not what they used to be.

The key to adequately evaluating the image of one-volume cars usually lies in their name. It is clear that the leading factor in the van is volume, usable space inside, and not its outer packaging in the form of dynamic lines and elegant forms, which naturally contradict the requirement for maximum internal volume with minimum external dimensions. It is the same with the furnishings of this space, where various possibilities of transformation and practical use play the main role, rather than luxurious fabrics and exquisite execution.

With this definition, the traditional van has little chance of climbing to the top of the image rankings, and most people are used to looking at it condescendingly, as we usually view things with a strong practical focus. Things that we only resort to when we need them and that we rarely fall in love with.

Another van

But the world is changing, and with it traditions. The market potential lies in the fact that the demography and way of life of the Old Continent became fertile ground for the development of this segment, and over time, different and rather far from strictly utilitarian definitions appeared in it. Not all of them have stood the test of time, but there were some in which a well-chosen recipe for change revealed new and unexpected strengths of monophonic cars.

One of these successful mutations was the first generation Ford S-Max, which fell in love with many amazingly dynamic forms, unusually active behavior on the road and an unusually high level of equipment. The model was sold in an impressive run of 400 copies for this category of cars and brought Ford not only a good financial result and self-confidence, but also an invaluable image of the creators of something different, better and more prestigious than a gray one-volume party. streets. Therefore, it is not surprising that the new generation has retained the general philosophy of its predecessor. Ford expressly states that all changes are strictly consistent with the results of comprehensive first-generation owner surveys, and the development of the new model is based on a solid foundation of proven success. This is especially evident in the iconic body proportions of the Ford S-Max, with its elongated lateral silhouette with a flowing roofline and a low road stance - despite the fact that design changes have touched every detail of the exterior and the seven-seat interior. , the model has fully retained the original spirit, refined posture and dynamic radiance of its predecessor.

Modern platform Mondeo

The global Ford CD4 platform is being used as the technological foundation for the next generation, making the S-Max a close cousin not only to Mondeo and Galaxy, but also to the future smaller models of this prestigious division. Lincoln. What sounds good on paper is even more impressive on the road. The Ford S-Max is so nimble and skillful in corners that you quickly forget about the two tones behind it, and the impressive size car, which at first glance seems suitable mainly for long stretches of highway, turns out to be an amazing pleasure. serpentines of secondary roads.

Fortunately, this does not come at the expense of comfort, and the main merit in achieving a good balance of behavior is the high-tech multi-link rear axle design, the long wheelbase, the typical Ford competent suspension adjustment with emphasized dynamic characteristics and, last but not least - new adaptive steering system, which is available as part of the optional equipment.

Speaking of equipment, we move on to the interior, where style is significantly more restrained than the smaller members of the Ford van range, and clean lines are combined with large open surfaces, plenty of storage space and five seats with plenty of space in all directions, which, when Optionally, you can add two more seats in the third row. Access to them is convenient, and the size makes them suitable not only for teenagers. Each of the seats in the two rear rows can be remotely folded at the push of a button – individually or together, creating an impressive flat floor space at the rear of the seven-seat van, maximum length two meters, maximum volume 2020. liters (965 for the second row of seats). Despite the sophisticated looks of the Ford S-Max, these figures far exceed those of station wagon models in this class and are a strong selling point for many families who want to combine business with pleasure. Of the pleasant moments - the proposed arsenal of electronic systems for active driver assistance, headlights with LED elements and modern multimedia.

It is unlikely to be disappointed with the range of engines (see information in the table) of the new van. Base four-cylinder gasoline Ecoboost with 160 hp. also without problems provides decent dynamics with a very good average consumption. - For anything bigger, you'll have to focus on a larger 240bhp petrol unit. or more powerful representatives of the diesel line, which in the Ford S-Max includes as many as four engines. The most reasonable and balanced choice for the model is perhaps the two-liter TDCi with 150 hp. and excellent traction with a maximum torque of 350 Nm, which pairs well with the six-speed manual transmission to achieve low consumption without negative consequences in terms of dynamic performance.

For the first time in this variant, as well as in the 180 hp TDCi version. and 400 Nm makes it possible to order a modern dual transmission system, which has every chance of turning the Ford S-Max into a truly versatile fighter capable of competing for a portion of potential buyers of crossovers and SUV models. But, as we have already said, the vans are no longer what they were ...

CONCLUSION

Ford's seven-seat model continues the success of the first generation, combining dynamic vision and active handling on the road with a flexible and spacious interior. The Ford S-Max is a very good choice for long trips, thanks to a wide range of modern and economical engines, and the option of ordering a double gearbox will save you from winter weather problems. Of course, you have to pay for all this.

Text: Miroslav Nikolov

Photos: Ford