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Wednesday, 8th of October 2008

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Ford Focus C-MAX road test report

Ford Focus C-MAX

The C-Max blends reassuring safety and space with a great ride and good performance. When you add all its good points together you are left with a great all-round MPV.

Performance

There are 3 petrol- and three-diesel engines available with the C-Max. The petrol range includes the 1.6-, 1.8- and 2.0-litre engines and the diesel range mirrors this. The best engines are undoubtedly the 2.0-litre petrol and diesel as they provide great response and supply sufficient power to make overtaking and motorways trouble-free.

Ride & Handling

The C-Max is possibly the best MPV to drive, handling is positive and the grip is reassuringly good. The ride is comfortable on the motorway and around town, plus the suspension absorbs everything thrown its way really well. The visibility out from the C-Max is excellent.

Build Quality & Reliability

Ford has made real improvements on the new C-Max. The MPV appears unyielding and strong on the outside and the quality plastics and brushed metal give the interior a feeling of class. Ford has a good reliability record and the engines used on the C-Max are tried and trusted.

Safety & Security

Euro NCAP stated that the C-Max is a strong and stable passenger cell, which provides balanced protection for its occupants. A rating of four-stars for adult protection and four-stars for child protection is testament to this. Twin front and side airbags, curtain airbags and optional traction and stability control further enhance its safety credentials.

Space & Practicality

The S-Max is a five-seater MPV with a 550-litre boot that expands to an impressive 1,620-litres with the rear seats laid flat.

Ownership & Value

Insurance groups start at 5 for the 1.6-litre petrols, going up to 11 for the 2.0-litre Zetec and Titanium models. The fuel economy is impressive on the petrols and diesels, the 2.0-litre counterparts achieving 53 miles to the gallon. Unfortunately, residual values are poor; the C-Max is likely to be only worth a third of is initial value after three years.

Submitted: 01/07/2008 10:43:13

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