Ford S-MAX Buyers Guide, Everything From Features, Reliability, Models & More

02 April 2024

Dive into our comprehensive Ford S-MAX Buyers Guide, covering everything from critical features and model variations to reliability & more.

Choosing the right family MPV for you can often feel like navigating through a maze of options, features, and considerations. For families and individuals looking for a versatile, spacious, and dependable car, the new Ford S-Max stands out as a noteworthy contender for your family's attention.

Consequently, in this guide, we delve into the essential aspects of the Ford S-Max, aiming to equip you with the knowledge and insights needed to make an informed purchasing decision.

Ford S-Max Top Features

The Ford S-Max, being a stylish MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle), offers you a blend of premium comfort, cutting-edge technology, and dynamic performance suitable for families and professionals alike.

These can include:

☑ The S-MAX provides you with seating for up to seven passengers with a flexible seating arrangement. For instance, the second and third rows can be folded flat to create a very large cargo space, accommodating both passengers and large items with ease.

☑ Equipped with a suite of advanced safety features, the S-MAX is designed to protect its occupants from the ground up. These features can include level-2 self-driving features such as Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Keeping Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control - enhancing your confidence and your passenger's safety on every drive.

☑ The Ford S-MAX is available with Ford's EcoBoost technology, offering you a balance between power and fuel efficiency. These engines provide ample power for a vehicle of its size while maintaining reasonable fuel consumption rates, for instance.

☑ The S-MAX also features the latest Ford SYNC infotainment system, offering you connectivity and entertainment options such as smartphone integration, voice-activated controls, and a touchscreen interface - ensuring that staying connected on the move is always effortless and intuitive.

☑ Despite its size, the S-MAX gives you a dynamic driving experience, with precise handling and responsive steering that make it enjoyable to drive, whether navigating city streets or cruising on the motorway.

Ford S Max

Ford S Max exterior

For instance, it showcases a sleek front grille accompanied by sharp, angular headlights, enhancing its modern appeal.

The vehicle's profile is further characterised by smooth lines and aerodynamic contours, contributing to its dynamic appearance.

Rear

At the rear, distinctive rear lights and a sculpted tailgate highlight the S-Max's sophisticated look.

The design is then further complemented by a selection of alloy wheels.

Overall, the Ford S-Max's exterior combines practical design elements with a modern aesthetic, catering to families seeking a stylish, versatile vehicle.

Interior

When it comes to the interior of the Ford S-MAX this is designed with the perfect balance of comfort and functionality. For instance, it welcomes you and your passengers into a space where comfort merges with a sporty flair.

Ford S Max interior

Materials, including high-quality leather and soft-touch finishes, are standard, reflecting Ford's commitment to quality.

Further accented with tasteful metallic touches and a variety of trim options, the cabin environment of the S-MAX elevates your driving position on the road as well.

Driver-focused Layout

The interior layout is also very clearly been driver-focused. This focus ensures that all controls are intuitively placed within easy reach, emphasising a seamless driving experience from start to finish.

The ergonomic design extends to the seating, offering support and comfort tailored for long journeys to you, the driver, and your passengers.

Furthermore, advanced features, such as adjustable ergonomic seats, ensure that every one of your drives is also a pleasure, not a chore.

Ambient Lighting

The Ford S-MAX can also boast innovative ambient lighting throughout the cabin - creating an inviting and customisable atmosphere.

This feature, coupled with the panoramic roof option, allows natural light to flood the interior, enhancing the sense of space and openness.

So whether you are navigating the city streets at night or cruising on the motorway by day, the S-MAX offers you an unmatched level of comfort and style - making every journey memorable.

Seating

When we talk about the seats in the Ford S-MAX, it does a great job of redefining comfort and style with its meticulously designed seating.

Engineered for maximum comfort, the seats offer you extensive adjustability, including height, angle, and lumbar support, to ensure an ideal driving posture.

The inclusion of a heating function transforms every chilly journey into a cosy, inviting experience.

Enhanced Noise Insulation

We all know how driving on the road can bring up a lot of exterior noise; that is why the Ford S-MAX excels in providing a peaceful and quiet cabin - employing state-of-the-art noise insulation techniques.

For instance, strategic use of advanced sound-dampening materials along with superior construction methods ensures that the exterior noise is significantly reduced.

As a result, road and wind noise are drastically minimised through innovative insulation and aerodynamic design, making the cabin a perfect environment for listening to music or having conversations without the need to compete with outside noise.

Panoramic Roof

The S-MAX's panoramic roof adds a distinctive touch to the cabin, elevating your overall driving experience.

This feature helps to flood the interior with natural light, offering an open-air ambience and brightening up every drive and journey.

Comfort

Comfort is clearly at the heart of the Ford S-MAX driving experience. It's not just a feature; it's a fundamental element that has been built in from the start.

Climate Control System

For instance, starting with the climate control system, the S-MAX is designed to maintain an optimal cabin temperature - ensuring your comfort regardless of the outside conditions.

Heated Seats

For those chilly days, the S-MAX also offers you heated seats that take your comfort to the next level. Consequently, no matter how cold it gets outside, you'll enjoy a cosy and enjoyable drive.

Exceptional Suspension

When we talk about suspension, the Ford S-MAX boasts a meticulously tuned suspension system that strikes the perfect balance between responsive handling and a smooth ride.

So whether you are navigating city streets or cruising on the open road, the S-MAX maintains consistent comfort for you, absorbing bumps to provide you with an ideal driving experience.

Generous Space

When we talk about space, the Ford S-MAX sets very high expectations of what is possible with a brilliant use of space.

For instance, the cabin is thoughtfully designed to provide you with ample legroom and headroom - ensuring both you and your passengers enjoy a comfortable ride without feeling confined.

This excellent use of design showcases what space an MPV car can actually give you.

Steering and Responsiveness

When it comes to handling the Ford S-MAX, its steering system provides you with precise feedback and control that are essential in a family car.

This setup instils confidence whether you are navigating winding country roads or driving at higher speeds on the motorway.

Engines

For engines, the Ford S-MAX stands out with its exceptional handling and drivability, striking a perfect balance between sporty performance and everyday comfort - what has been seen as a long-term hallmark of the S-MAX series.

Ford S Max hybrid

What sets the S-MAX apart, though, is its unique blend of features that enhance its handling capabilities - making it precise and intuitive in any driving situation.

Efficient Power

Under the hood, the S-MAX offers you a robust set of engine options that deliver thrilling performance while maintaining fuel efficiency.

This combination of power and economy adds to the S-MAX's appeal, making it a versatile choice for various driving needs.

Engine Performance Table

For instance, this car can come in one of 6 engine types, which consist of:

  • 1.5L EcoBoost I4 (2015-2023)
  • 2.0L EcoBoost I4 (2010-2023)
  • 2.5L Duratec Hybrid (2022-2023)
  • 2.0L Duratorq I4 (2015-2019) - Discontinued
  • 2.0L EcoBlue I4 turbo (2019-2023)
  • 2.0L EcoBlue I4 twin-turbo (2019-2023)

Current Engine Options

The Ford S-Max current has 2 types of engines: a 1.5 EcoBoost engine and multiple power variants of the 2-litre Eco Blue engine.

Some of their core stats consist of:

Engine Type Power Availability
1.5L EcoBoost 165 PS Current
2.0L EcoBoost 120 PS -> 240 PS Current

Acceleration and Top Speed in the Ford S-MAX

When it comes to speed, the Ford S-MAX offers you an impressive driving experience with its responsive engine options, including the 2.0-litre EcoBoost engines.

Acceleration

The S-MAX accelerates from 0 to 60 MPH in just 8.8 seconds, delivering a thrilling and controlled burst of speed for a large family car when needed.

Top Speeds

With a top speed of up to 135 MPH, the S-MAX competes admirably within its class.

Traction and Stability Control

When we look at Traction and Stability Control, the Ford S-MAX is equipped with advanced systems in this regard - designed to enhance both your performance and safety.

These integrated safety systems work well together to maintain stability and grip, crucial in various conditions, from challenging road surfaces to wintery roads and changing weather conditions.

Braking Performance

When you are behind the wheel of the S-MAX, you can count on its braking system to deliver not only reliable but also potent stopping power.

This level of performance is essential for a vehicle with the family capabilities that the S-MAX offers you.

How Many Models of the Ford S-MAX Are There?

The latest Ford S-MAX is available in 4 models, each offering a unique blend of features and styling.

The main models can include:

  • Ford S-MAX Zetec
  • Ford S-MAX Titanium
  • Ford S-MAX Vignale
  • Ford S-MAX ST-Line

How do the Different Models Compare?

Each of the models differs in a number of ways. For instance, these can include:

Ford S-MAX Zetec Top Features

The Ford S-Max Zetec comes in at the base model. That said, it still offers you a lot of features as standard.

These can include, for instance:

  • 17 Inch Multi-spoke alloy wheels
  • Dual-zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control air conditioning
  • Electrically-operated, folding and heated door mirrors with body colour housings, side indicators and puddle lights
  • Ford DAB Radio/CD with single CD and 8 speakers
  • Ford Power Starter button
  • Ford SYNC 3 with 8 Inch TFT LCD touchscreen, enhanced voice control and Emergency Assistance
  • Front and rear parking sensors
  • Front carpet floor mats
  • Front fog lights
  • Gearshift Indicator light
  • Halogen daytime running lights
  • Leather-trimmed gearshift knob
  • Leather-trimmed steering wheel
  • Load compartment tonneau cover
  • Locking wheel nuts
  • Overhead console with sunglasses stowage and child watch mirror
  • Power-operated front and rear windows with global opening/closing and one shot up/down
  • Quickclear’ heated front windscreen
  • Remote control central locking
  • Second-row reading lights
  • Sports-style front seats with four-way manual adjustment, adjustable lumbar support and under-seat stowage
  • Thatcham Category 1 alarm with volume-sensing perimeter alarm Interior features
  • Third-row rear seats with manual fold flat, slide and recline

Ford S-MAX Titanium Top Features

The Ford S-Max Titanium offers the following features in addition to those provided by Zetec.

These can include, for instance:

  • 10.1 Inch Colour TFT cluster display
  • 17" 5x2-spoke alloy wheels
  • Ambient lighting
  • Automatic headlights
  • Body coloured trim
  • Chrome side window surround
  • Cruise Control with adjustable speed limiter
  • Ford DAB Audio and Navigation system
  • Ford Keyfree system
  • Front and second-row Velours floor mats
  • Lane Keeping Aid
  • LED daytime running lights
  • Lower front grille with chrome surround
  • Rain sensing front windscreen wipers
  • Rear privacy glass
  • Traffic Sign Recognition

Ford S-MAX ST-Line Top Features

The Ford S-MAX ST-Line offers features additional to those provided by the Titanium.

These can include, for instance:

  • 18 Inch Rock Metallic alloy wheels
  • Aluminium sports pedals
  • Black headliner
  • Black side window surrounds
  • Bodystyling kit (includes unique front and rear bumpers, fog lights, upper and lower grille and rocker panel moulding)
  • Front door scuff plates with ST-Line logo
  • Gearshift knob with black lettering on silver background (manual transmission only)
  • Headlights and rear lights with black bezel
  • Perforated leather-trimmed steering wheel with red stitching
  • Rear spoiler
  • Sports suspension
  • ST-Line front floor mats with red stitching
  • Unique ST-Line badging
  • Variable heated front seats with red stitching
  • Vinyl door board insert with red stitching

Ford S-MAX Vignale Top Features

The Ford S-MAX Vignale offers the following features in addition to those provided by the ST-Line.

These can include, for instance:

  • 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory function
  • Adaptive Lighting with Ford Dynamic LED headlights and glare-free high beam
  • Enhanced ambient lighting
  • Exclusive 19 Inch alloy wheels
  • Fog lights with high gloss black bezel and chrome surround
  • Ford SYNC 3 with 8 Inch Touchscreen, SONY DAB Satellite Navigation, enhanced voice control and Emergency Assistance
  • Ford Vignale welcome screen
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Leather-wrapped instrument panel
  • Parking distance sensors, front and rear
  • Power Tailgate
  • Power-foldable door mirrors with driver’s dimming, memory function and auto dip with reverse gear selected
  • Premium leather trim
  • Rear-view camera
  • Unique Ford Vignale exterior styling with chrome detailing
  • Variable heated front seats
  • Vignale metallic paint

Boot Space

The Ford S-MAX efficiently utilises its compact dimensions to provide you with a practical boot space, catering to your daily needs.

Ford S Max boot

The boot is thoughtfully designed to offer approximately 285 litres of storage capacity.

Given a 50-litre suitcase, for example, this is enough space to hold almost 6 of them with the rear passenger seats up. <?p>

Convenient Layout

The layout of the boot space in the S-MAX is designed with simplicity in mind as well, allowing for quick and easy loading and unloading of your items.

It's a practical feature that complements the car's class-leading MPV design.

Ford S-Max Reliability

When it comes to reliability, the Ford S-MAX has won many awards in this regard. A small sample of which consist of:

  • European Car of the Year
  • Auto Express New Car Awards for MPV of the Year
  • What Car? Car of the Year
  • Top Gear Magazine Award for MPV of the Year
  • Car and Driver's 10Best Cars
  • What Car? MPV of the Year (multiple wins)
  • Parkers New Car Awards for Best MPV
  • BusinessCar Awards for MPV of the Year (multiple wins)
  • Tow Car Awards for Best MPV Tow Car
  • Auto Express for Best MPV over £25,000

What Types of Alloy Wheels Can Come with the Ford S-MAX?

The Ford S-MAX offers you a choice of alloy wheel designs, enhancing its sporty appeal. The available options include the following:

  • 17” Multi-spoke alloy wheel (fitted with 235/55 tyres)
  • 17” Machined alloy wheel (fitted with 235/55 tyres)
  • 18” 5x2-spoke alloy wheel (fitted with 235/50 tyres)
  • 18” Rock Metallic alloy wheel (fitted with 235/50 tyres)
  • 19” Rock Metallic alloy wheel (fitted with 245/45 tyres)
  • 19” 10-spoke polished alloy wheel (fitted with 245/45 tyres)

What Paint Colours Can the Ford S-MAX Come In?

The Ford S-MAX is available in a range of striking paint colours, offering personalisation to suit your individual style. The colour options, for instance, include:

  • Blazer Blue
  • Frozen White
  • Shadow Black
  • Chrome Blue
  • Ruby Red
  • Moondust Silver
  • Guard
  • Magnetic
  • Nocciola
  • White Platinum
  • Milano Grigio
  • Diffused Silver

Pricing

Due to pricing changing over time, please find us for the most up-to-date pricing available for each model on our dedicated Ford S-MAX pricing page..

Ford S-MAX Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Ford S-Max stands out as a practical choice for those seeking a family car that combines comfort, versatility, and driving dynamics.

Its spacious interior, with flexible seating arrangements, can accommodate both passengers and a lot of cargo with ease, making it suitable for daily commutes, long journeys, and everything in between.

The range of engine options also offers you a balance between performance and fuel efficiency - catering to your different driving preferences and needs.

Furthermore, the Safety features and modern technology add to its appeal, providing you with peace of mind and convenience.

What To Book a Test Drive?

Why not book a test drive of the new Ford S-Max today at one of our local Ford dealerships today?