FORD C-MAX DIESEL ESTATE 2007-2010 Review
Good Points
- Large boot space
- Low running costs
- Comfortable vehicle which is enjoyable to drive
Bad Points
- There are bigger MPV's on the market which can offer more space
- It only has five seats, some of its competitors offer 7
- There is some noticeable wind noise when driving at speed
Engines
The Ford C-Max is the revamped version of the original Focus C-Max and has become a wonderful five seater MPV. The C-Max is a good looking vehicle which benefits from the usual refinement that comes from Ford. The interior is robust and will last well, although may not be as flashy as some of its competitors.
Performance & Economy
The 1.6 petrol gives 98 bhp of power, the sprightly 1.8 gives 123 bhp, and 2.0 gives 143 bhp, but is less economic. The 1.6 diesel provides 88 bhp, the 1.8 provides 113 bhp and 2.0 gives 134 bhp. The 1.6 petrol is good for short distance or town driving but when carrying a load on longer journeys it may struggle. The 2.0 models are accompanied by an automatic gearbox which offers quite a smooth ride. The diesel engines are good for performance and economy so will suit those who drive often but we would recommend sticking with either the 1.8-litre or 2.0-litre options.
The petrol models of C-Max are cheaper than the diesel models, but the resell values of diesel models are higher. The 1.6 petrol engine delivers a strong return of fuel economy of 40.9 mpg and while the 1.8 engine delivers 35.3 mpg. As expected the diesel engines are more fuel efficient than the petrol engines. The less powerful version of the 1.6-litre diesel engine gives 60.1 mpg. The other diesel engines, the 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre give 52.3 mpg and 49.5 mpg respectively. The insurance and road tax for all except 2.0-litre petrol C-Max are reasonable.
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Introduction
The Ford C-Max is an excellent all round vehicle that most people will find a joy to drive and to live with in day to day life. It is such a strong all round performer that the owner and driver may even find themselves forgetting that it's an MPV.
Exterior & Interior
The Ford C-Max is available in both petrol and diesel models which offers great flexibility for owners. The petrol range offers a 1.6-litre, 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre engines while the diesel range includes 1.6-litre, 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre versions. Both of the 2.0-litre engines are popular choices.
Drive
The C-Max is very good to drive and many people will forget that they are driving a MPV. It has a good amount of grip which results in refined handling and responsive steering. The overall ride quality is very comfortable with very little body roll through the corners and on uneven roads the suspension will help to absorb most of the bumps. The road noise is well contained although there may be some wind noise when travelling at speed.
Inside there is a lot of space for the driver and front passenger. The rear offers two well sized seats although the middle seat may become uncomfortable on long journeys as it is slightly restrictive. The boot space is generous which can be further expanded by removing the rear seats. In classic Ford fashion the cabin feels durable and laid out well and built. Although the materials may not be the highest quality most people will be satisfied. The build quality is good and will last well.
Faults & Repairs
The C-Max has had a range of faults reported over time. Unfortunately many of these faults will need to be rectified by a garage and therefore there is the possibility of additional costs. There have been reports of faulty alternators which will need replacing, some reports of the limp-home mode being activated and also issues with the diesel engines and the turbo.
Faults have also been found in the electric systems including the clock needing to be reset, the boot opening with out user involvement and faulty electric windows. The C-Max's front tires are also partial to wearing quickly and should be checked at regular intervals. The servicing costs of the diesel models are more expensive than the petrol ones, but the labour rates are not too high in the Ford workshops.
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