Sime Darby AutoConnexion has quietly introduced the second generation Ford S-Max, an MPV that’s closely related to the Mondeo. It packs an almost identical underpinning from the handsome D-segment sedan, but its MPV form commands a price premium of about RM37k over the Mondeo.
And just like the Mondeo, only a single variant is offered for the Malaysian market. This Titanium-spec S-Max is laden with useful tech, and it’s powered by the same 2.0-litre four-cylinder EcoBoost mill from the Mondeo.
QUICK FACTS
Name | Ford S-Max 2.0 EcoBoost |
Engine | 1,999 cc 4-cylinder turbo |
Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
Max Power | 237 hp @ 5,300 rpm |
Max Torque | 345 Nm @ 2,300 rpm |
0 – 100 km/h; Top Speed | 8.4 seconds; 226 km/h |
Price | RM234,988 |
EXTERIOR
It’s not surprising that the S-Max looks like the MPV version of the Mondeo. Although it’s worth to note that the S-Max is not a full-blown MPV, that spot is occupied by the larger Ford Galaxy, which is not sold in the Malaysian market. The S-Max measures 1,655 mm tall, 1,916 mm wide, and 4,796 mm long with a 2,849 mm wheelbase.
The side profile looks pretty sleek for an MPV, but the 17-inch alloys shod with 235/55 R17 rubbers are rather modestly-sized like on the Mondeo. The Aston-esque grille is still featured at the front, and it’s flanked by a pair of Adaptive LED headlamps with LED DRLs. Meanwhile at the other end there’s the LED combination tail lights and a pair of chrome-tipped tail pipes.
INTERIOR
The interior is brimmed with tech. You will get the 8-inch touchscreen SYNC 2 audio system that features voice command to almost every function in the car, and it’s paired with nine speakers by Sony. Black leather wraps all seven seats, and the front two seats are fitted with ventilation system and a massage function.
The second row seats slide forwards and backwards, and both the second and third rows of seats feature the electro mechanical remote easy fold seat release via buttons in the boot. Dual-zone automatic climate control is standard, and second row passengers also get their own aircond vents.
PERFORMANCE
The turbocharged 1,999cc four-cylinder EcoBoost is carried over from the Mondeo. It develops a healthy 237 hp and 345 Nm of torque, and the EcoBoost mill is mated to a six-speed automatic that deploys the power to the front wheels. We doubt that performance figures matter to the soccermoms out there, but the S-Max gets from 0 to 100km/h in 8.4 seconds, with a top speed of 226 km/h.
SAFETY
The S-Max is equipped with seven airbags, and it’s packed with safety features such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Roll Stability Control (RSC), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), and Hill Launch Assist (HLA). Lane Keeping Alert with Lane Keeping Aid is fitted to the S-Max too.
Other than that, Ford’s brilliant MyKey is available as standard on the S-Max, which allows owners to configure the car’s settings as the seat belt reminder and top speed limiter.
WHAT ELSE?
The fully-imported Ford S-Max retails at RM234,988.00 without insurance. Order books are now open, and there are three colours to choose from: Frozen White, Moondust Silver, and Magnetic Grey.
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