Bill Pierre Ford

The S-MAX shares much in common with the new Galaxy but aims to have greater dynamic appeal. Positioned between the Mondeo and Galaxy, the S-MAX is 69mm lower and around 50mm shorter than the new Galaxy and is available with either 5 or 7 individual seats, depending on specification. To emphasise the sporty credentials, top versions will have the 2.5liter 220ps 5-cylinder Duratec engine from the Focus ST and an SAV concept-style option with orange nose and 20” wheels will be offered.

The real mission of the S-Max is to provide a sportier and more involving driving experience than the Galaxy, and to that end the S-Max is available with the same engine as the Ford Focus ST. Much more after the jump. Interior provides 26 thoughtfully designed stowage compartments.

To each side of the lower grille area, distinctive “gills” which resemble cooling ducts give the vehicle its unique identity. Ford S-MAX is 69mm lower (1,607mm vs. 1,676mm) and more than 50mm shorter in overall length (4,768mm vs. 4,820mm) than its sibling, the new Galaxy.

Just as individual exterior styling reflects the different characters of the  S-MAX and new Galaxy even though they share a common architecture, the interiors of the two cars are also distinctly different.