Ford C-Max review

If you like the stylish, slightly angular looks of the Ford Focus, chances are you’ll find this five-seat MPV just as attractive. The C-Max is basically a high-roofed version of Ford’s evergreen family hatchback, with improved versatility and more interior space.  

A wide grille and narrow headlamps are the manufacturer’s design hallmarks, so the C-Max is easily recognisable at the Ford family reunion. Above all it’s a compact MPV, so while we’re not expecting it to win any beauty contests, we are surprised at how tidy it actually looks. 

For a small people carrier, the C-Max still drives and handles like the Focus it’s based on. And that’s a very good thing. Those Focus underpinnings give the C-Max lots of grip, responsive steering and a lack of body lean in corners, despite its added height.  

While the suspension is quite firm, overall ride comfort is impressive with the C-Max making light work of poor road surfaces and potholes. Thanks to its compact dimensions, the C-Max is great for negotiating city streets and is easy to park. Its grown-up driving dynamics allow it to tackle fast country roads and motorways with ease. 

The C-Max’s range of diesel and EcoBoost petrol engines are smooth, refined performers, equally as adept at relaxed motorway cruising as they are fast overtaking manoeuvres. 

The C-Max’s high driving position provides great all-around visibility from the comfortable driver’s seat, which has adjustable lumbar support as standard across the range. The front seats are firm and supportive, boasting a wide range of movement. In the rear there are three individual seats, the outer seats being a tad wider than the middle one. 

All trim levels feature an impressive amount of standard equipment, with base Zetec-spec models getting air-conditioning, a DAB radio and a 4.2-inch infotainment screen. The screen is the beating heart of Ford’s all-in SYNC system, which handles voice control, Bluetooth and music connectivity. The higher Titanium and Titanium X trim levels add such big-car luxury features as cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, keyless entry, a superior stereo with an eight-inch display and a panoramic sunroof. 

As is the case with other Ford products, the C-Max’s interior is well-built and, despite the presence of some hard plastics, it has an overall quality feel. 

The Ford C-Max is a supremely practical family car. Its high roofline gives plenty of rear seat headroom, with rear legroom being equally generous – although it’s worth bearing in mind that fitting 3 adults across the rear seats can be a bit of a squeeze.  

There’s an abundance of interior storage options, with a large glovebox and door bins up front, as well as an overhead console and sunglasses holder. With the rear seats in place, the C-Max’s boot offers considerably more space than you get in the Focus hatchback.  

Fold down and tilt the rear seats forward, and you’ve got yourself a huge, unobstructed load bay. You can even remove the rear seats altogether and turn your C-Max into a small van – just be aware that the seats are heavy and getting them back in can be a bit of a faff. Moving day will be both a blessing and a curse. 

The Ford C-Max offers good fuel economy and low emissions figures in line with the competition, with the 1.5-litre diesel engine returning around 48.7mpg and the most fuel-efficient 1.0-litre Eco Boost engine delivering close to 42.2 mpg. The more powerful 1.5-litre petrol engine is only available with a six-speed automatic gearbox, which will be considerably less friendly to your wallet.

We love how the C-Max combines practicality with driving fun. Its added height and interior space don’t detract from its Focus-like handling and performance. It’s a great family car that you can also take out for a sporty drive after you’ve done the shopping.It’s perfect for families with children of all ages, and adults who enjoy driving.