Ford Grand C-Max compact model offers comfort for children

By Gerry Murphy

As a rule, cars that fit into the more compact MPV variety rarely float my boat. Designed essentially for family motoring, these cars don’t offer a whole lot in terms of design or driving dynamics.

However, looking at the type, there are essentials that make them ideal as a family car and the functionality is often the only real measurement.

Originally, these cars were only available in five-seat form and when car makers started to squeeze an extra row to make them seven-seat models, the script was re-written somewhat, not always with total success.

Ford now have a seven-seat version too that they call the Grand C-Max, and while extra seats are rather cramped, there is merit in the layout if the family is big enough to need them. Adults have little chance of decent comfort in the final row, and while they are efficient for children, they wouldn’t be the most comfortable place on a long journey for them either. Access to the rear of the five-door car is through sliding rear doors that make entry easier and safer.

Where the Ford excels is in the driving stakes. Most of these cars suffer from lack of steering feel, poor cornering and a ride height that, while it offers good visibility, really offers little confidence. Ford engineers have managed to build in some engagement for the driver. It is a trademark in all of their cars, and while I wouldn’t be getting too carried away with it, it is the most enjoyable one of this type of car that you will get.

Stiffer suspension bushes help deliver more control and reduced body roll; retuned dampers and electric steering assist helps the steering feel and ride comfort; while a new valve design reduces squeaks and rattles to improve interior refinement.

In the high Titanium spec that I have been driving, the array of extras does make it a pricey car to own. Their 1.5 TDCi, 120 hp, 113g/km diesel engine is more refined – they say more efficient too – than the older version that was fitted in the original model.  This new 1.5-litre TDCi diesel engine, offered with 95 PS and 120 PS. You can also have a a 2.0-lite TDCi and 100 PS and 125 PS versions of Ford’s 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine.

Fuel consumption figures registered at 6.7L/100km over a week of motoring that covered 900 kilometres. That was all done in one tank of diesel and although it was running on fumes at the end of the week, I was quite happy with the overall return.

Titanium models adds  17” alloys; cruise control; chrome doorline; LED daytime running lights; dual zone climate control; power rear windows; centre armrest; keyless start; ambient lighting; auto lights and wipers; and scuff plates.

Prices for the range start at €28,885 for the smallest five-seat petrol model rising to €34,900 for an automatic version of the Grand C-Max. My test car has a price tag of €32,200. A number of optional extras including part leather interior, Sony SYNC Gen 2 with 8’’ touch screen, Active Park Assist, seat back table trays, power tailgate and adaptive headlamps bumps the total price up to a healthy €36,740.

While I will never be a total fan of the genre, this Grand C-Max comes as close as it gets to being the best of the breed. For those who need the practicality and the extra seats, it is a car that offers the most that you can get n the segment.