| Overall Rating |
 |
| Description |
| C-Max is a fine addition to the Focus family, with midi-MPV space and versatilility plus above-average refinement, ride and handling. It's good to drive and rivals the best five-seaters in the class. |
| Handling |
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| Comfort |
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| Quality & Reliability |
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| Performance |
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| Roominess |
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| Running Costs |
 |
| Value for Money |
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| NCAP |
| 4 |
| Worst Models |
| 1.8 petrol |
|
| Road Test |
| C-Max is Ford's creditable first attempt at a compact MPV. The only question is why the long wait? Focus has been around for years; but by waiting, Ford were able to use the underpinnings of the new 2005 Focus, making C-Max an excellent drive. Unlike rivals Zafira and Touran, C-Max only has five seats. There's plenty of room for five adults; rear seats fold and remove individually to give good adaptability; and the boot is big. It rides smoothly, there's not much body roll, and noise levels are low. Creature comforts and safety needs are well looked after; there are lots of airbags and generous equipment includes air conditioning on all but basic Studio models. Engines are 1.6 and 1.8 Zetec petrol units from Focus - willing and quite economical - plus a pair of newly developed turbodiesels, 1.6 with 108 bhp and 2.0 with 134bhp. The latter is very lively and can give 50mpg. |
| Positive Points |
- Spacious and stylish alternative to excellent Focus
- Just as responsive and comfortable as Focus
- High quality finish, especially inside
|
| Negative Points |
- No seven-seater option
- Cheapest Studio models don't have much equipment
- Might depreciate heavily as sales volumes build
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