First Drive: Ford Grand C-MAX

It may only be a fraction bigger than the Ford C-Max but there’s room for seven in the new Grand C-Max writes Suzanne Keane

 What is it? Ford have updated the C-MAX for 2015 and the Grand C-Max version comes with 7 seats to suit families in need of a more versatile space.

First impressions of the new Ford Grand C-MAX? The Grand C-MAX looks very much part of the new Ford family with oversized grille and bonnet bulges.

What about the interior?  The interior of the Grand C-MAX is spacious with all controls within easy reach although the dashboard is huge and the area surrounding the touchscreen does resemble a storm trooper helmet! Storage space in the Grand C-MAX ranges from 65 litres to 755 litres depending on seating configuration and can extend to 1742 with just the 2 front seats in place.

And on the road? We tested the Grand C-MAX in suburbia and the 1.5 TDCi engine was fairly nippy at traffic lights while the suspension was steady and fairly smooth even over speed ramps! The Grand C-Max was also very easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces and to park.

How much? Prices for the all-new Grand C-MAX start at €28,355 for a 1.0L Ecoboost Zetec rising to €34,900 for the 2.0TDCi Automatic Titanium version. Standard equipment includes 16” alloys, front fogs, A/C, Privacy glass, leather steering wheel, rear parking sensors and electric folding mirrors. Upgrading to Titanium will get you 17” alloys. Cruise control, chrome detailing, LED daytime running lights, climate control, keyless start, auto lights and wipers and roof rails.

How safe? The Grand C-Max comes with the usual safety features you’d expect from Ford from airbags to electronic stability control. There are also additional safety features available such as Distance Alert, Cross Traffic Alert, Smart Headlamps, Traffic Sign Recognition, Active Braking System and Driver Alert which monitors driver fatigue.

What about my options? The C-MAX is available in 2 trim levels – Zetec and Titanium – and with 3 engine options. There’s a 100bhp 1.0 Ecoboost petrol, a 1.5TDCi 95bhp Diesel and a 2.0TDCi 150bhp Diesel which is available as both manual and automatic.

3 words to describe the Ford Grand C-MAX? Practical; Spacious; Flexible

For more information on the new Grand C-MAX check out Ford.ie, the Ford Ireland Facebook page or follow them on twitter here

Suzanne Keane

21st July, 2015