Ford S-Max review

• For: Good to drive, smart styling, lots of equipment
• Against: Cramped third row, small boot when seven-up, expensive
• Verdict: The most fun you can have in a seven-seat SUV

Is the Ford S-Max the automotive definition of having your cake and eating it?

Not only does it offer seven-seat practicality, it also serves up a driving experience that would shame many hatchbacks and saloons.

It’s not Ford’s most practical seven-seater, however – that honour belongs to the Galaxy. But if you’re after a good looking, well-equipped and roomy five-seat MPV, with two extra seats for occasional use, the S-Max is hard to ignore.

If want maximum seven-seat flexibility, look elsewhere. The boot is too small when all chairs are in use.

It’s not cheap. Prices start from around £31,000 for the entry-level Zetec, rising to a premium car-rivalling £40,000-plus for the plush Vignale.

Having said that, there’s a decent level of standard equipment and an all-important five-star Euro NCAP safety rating. Y

ou’ll discover a choice of engines, but the 190hp diesel is the pick of the crop, especially for carrying heavy loads.

KEY INFO

• Launched: 2015
• Facelifted: 2019
• Due for replacement: TBC