Key facts:
Model tested: Ford C-Max 1.6 EcoBoost 150 PS
Price: £20,745
Date tested: September 2010
Road tester: Adrian Higgins

First Drive
The new Ford C-Max range is now split into two new models, with a five-seater standard edition or the seven-seater Grand C-Max.

This has enabled the standard C-Max to develop a much sportier look as it caters for people who like the Focus but want more space.

Hallmarked by a big four-sided grille and a more dynamic appearance, the overall package is an evolution of Ford's 'kinetic design' which ensures the new C-Max has a far less conservative appearance than its predecessor.

The new model is much the same size though, for those wanting a bigger Focus; the C-max shares its platform.

One, two or three of the rear seats can be folded and the entire row is easily tipped to create the 1,723 litres of load space available in two-seater mode. The rear seats don't fold flat, but it's still possible to generate a decent-sized cavern.

It's also possible to easily change the five-seat configuration to four, by folding away the centre seat and moving the outer two diagonally backwards and inwards to create more space for two rear-seat passengers.

The modernising treatment has taken place inside the car too with more of a cockpit feel for front occupants. The new interior is well-thought through, with a high driving position, as is the gear stick which sits close to the central console. The front door pockets, glove box and cup holders provide plenty of useful storage solutions.

---

---

The new C-Max will have three petrol and two diesel engines. The 1.6-litre petrol unit comes in 105bhp, 125bhp and 150bhp forms, while the diesel line-up of a 1.6- or 2-litre diesel engine, will produce 115 and 140bhp respectively.

The 150bhp petrol engine uses Ford's EcoBoost technology for better performance and economy with reduced CO2 emissions (and therefore tax bills).

The high-powered petrol engine impressed with its ability to deliver power and acceleration at higher speeds. The outgoing C-Max was fun to drive and Ford has introduced new technology to take that further with more precise steering and enhanced cornering stability.

Also on the menu is Active Park Assist, which takes the pain out of parking by scanning for suitable parking spaces and automatically steering the vehicle into the selected spot with the driver controlling the accelerator and gearbox.

Two trim levels will be available when the C-Max arrives in October: Titanium and Zetec. Standard on the Zetec will be 16-inch alloy wheels, leather steering wheel, DAB radio and a USB connection while Titanium adds 17-inch alloy wheels, upgraded streo plus automatic wipers and headlamps.

Prices for the new C-Max will be on a par with, or less than those of its predecessor.