Ford Grand C-Max: A Used Buy?

Is the Ford Grand C-Max Worth Considering on the Used Market?

The Ford Grand C-Max, a seven-seater variant of the popular C-Max, often pops up as a sensible option for families needing more space. But when you're browsing the used car market, it's crucial to understand what you're getting yourself into. This MPV, designed to offer versatility and practicality, has its strengths and weaknesses. Let's delve into whether a pre-owned Grand C-Max could be the right fit for your motoring needs, examining its performance, economy, interior features, and overall value.

Understanding the Ford Grand C-Max

The Ford Grand C-Max is essentially a stretched version of the standard C-Max, built to accommodate up to seven occupants. This makes it a more attractive proposition for larger families or those who frequently transport extra passengers. It shares many mechanical components with its five-seat sibling, but the added length and the introduction of sliding rear doors are its defining characteristics. The focus here is on family practicality, and Ford aimed to deliver a compelling package in a competitive segment.

Powertrains and Driving Experience

When it comes to the powertrain, the Grand C-Max offered a range of options, primarily focusing on efficiency. The standard transmission is a six-speed manual, known for its smooth operation. For those seeking the convenience of an automatic, Ford's Powershift dual-clutch automatic was available, though it was often a costly option.

Fuel economy is a significant consideration for any family car, and the Grand C-Max generally performs well in this regard. Ford's reputation for producing efficient engines is evident here.

Engine Options and Their Economy

The most economical choice is typically the 1.5 TDCi diesel engine. This powerplant emits a respectable 113g/km of CO2 and can achieve an impressive 64mpg. While it might be marginally more expensive to run than its five-seat counterpart, this is still excellent for an MPV of its size.

For those who prefer more oomph, the 2.0-litre diesel engine offers a punchier performance while still delivering commendable economy. It returns around 61mpg with CO2 emissions of 119g/km, making it a strong contender for those who cover longer distances.

The petrol side is represented by the 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine. Available in different power outputs (99bhp and 123bhp), these engines are also very capable, achieving around 54mpg. While they can't quite match the diesel engines for pure economy or emissions, they offer a good balance for mixed driving and are often cheaper to purchase initially. Road tax for many of these models is a very reasonable £30 per year, a significant plus for budget-conscious buyers.

Interior, Design, and Technology

The exterior design of the Grand C-Max is where opinions can be divided. While the standard C-Max is often praised for its handsome looks, the seven-seat Grand C-Max can appear a little less cohesive. The longer wheelbase and higher roofline, necessary to accommodate the extra seats and sliding doors, can make it look somewhat ungainly. The integration of the sliding doors into the rear end, while practical, hasn't always been considered the most aesthetically pleasing design element. However, the front of the car usually benefits from Ford's familiar and attractive 'family face'.

Inside, Ford has generally provided a well-thought-out cabin. A significant upgrade came with the 2015 facelift, which saw models like the Titanium and Titanium X equipped with the SYNC2 eight-inch touchscreen. This system significantly improved the dashboard's layout and usability, making it more intuitive for the driver.

Beyond the infotainment, the interior offers good levels of equipment. Even the entry-level Zetec models typically come with alloy wheels, air conditioning, a DAB radio, rear parking sensors, and Bluetooth connectivity. Optional extras could further enhance the experience, including automatic lights and wipers, cruise control, climate control, and hill-start assist. Ford also made a point of offering a range of innovative safety features, which is a major draw for family car buyers.

Practicality, Comfort, and Boot Space

The 'Grand' in Grand C-Max implies a significant increase in practicality, particularly regarding seating. Can it truly be called a proper seven-seater? Well, yes, it can seat seven, but with a caveat. The third row of seats is best suited for small children, offering limited legroom and comfort for adults on longer journeys.

Furthermore, unlike some rivals such as the Kia Carens or Toyota Verso, the middle seat in the second row is narrower than the outer two. This can impact the comfort of three passengers in the middle row. However, the inclusion of sliding rear doors is a major practical advantage, especially when manoeuvring children into car seats in tight parking spaces.

Seating Flexibility

The Grand C-Max often features Ford's "Fold Flat" or similar seating systems, allowing for various configurations. The second-row seats can typically slide, recline, and fold, while the third-row seats can usually be folded completely flat into the floor. This flexibility is key to its appeal as a family vehicle, allowing you to prioritise either passenger or luggage space as needed.

Boot Space Comparison

When all seven seats are in use, the boot space is understandably limited. However, if you fold down the third row, you gain a substantial amount of cargo room. Folding down both the second and third rows creates a cavernous space, suitable for carrying large items, sports equipment, or holiday luggage.

Here's a general idea of the boot space:

Note: Exact figures can vary slightly depending on the model year and specific configuration.

Common Issues and What to Look For

As with any used car, it's essential to be aware of potential common issues when buying a Grand C-Max. While generally reliable, some owners have reported certain problems:

• Powershift Gearbox: Some early Powershift automatic gearboxes could be a source of trouble, occasionally exhibiting juddering or hesitant behaviour. It's worth test-driving a Powershift model carefully and checking its service history.
• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF): Like many modern diesels, the TDCi engines can be susceptible to DPF issues if the car is primarily used for short, low-speed journeys. This can lead to warning lights and expensive repairs. Ensure the car has been driven on longer runs periodically.
• Interior Wear and Tear: Given its family-oriented nature, check for excessive wear on seats, carpets, and door cards, especially in the rear.
• Electrics: While generally robust, always check that all electrical components, including the infotainment system, air conditioning, and lights, are functioning correctly.
• Sliding Door Mechanisms: Ensure the sliding doors operate smoothly and without undue noise or sticking.

Running Costs and Maintenance

The running costs for a used Grand C-Max are generally competitive, particularly with the diesel engines. As mentioned, road tax is often low. Insurance groups will vary depending on the specific engine and trim level, but they tend to be in reasonable bands for an MPV.

Servicing costs should be comparable to other Ford models. It's advisable to look for vehicles with a full service history, ideally from a Ford main dealer or a reputable independent specialist. This will give you confidence in how the car has been maintained and potentially flag any recurring issues.

Alternatives to Consider

The MPV market is crowded, and the Grand C-Max faces stiff competition. Depending on your priorities, you might also want to consider:

• Volkswagen Touran: Often praised for its build quality and refined driving experience.
• Citroën Grand C4 Picasso/SpaceTourer: Known for its stylish interior and comfortable ride.
• Kia Carens: Offers a long warranty and good practicality.
• Renault Grand Scenic: Another stylish option with innovative features.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is the Ford Grand C-Max a reliable car?

The Ford Grand C-Max is generally considered a reliable vehicle, especially with the manual transmission and diesel engines. However, like all cars, it's crucial to check its service history and look for signs of wear and tear, particularly concerning the Powershift automatic gearbox and DPF system on diesels.

Q2: Which engine is best for the Grand C-Max?

For economy and lower running costs, the 1.5 TDCi diesel is the standout choice. If you require more power and still want good economy, the 2.0 TDCi is a solid option. The 1.0 EcoBoost petrol is a good all-rounder if you prefer petrol power.

Q3: Is the third row of seats usable for adults?

The third row is best suited for children or very short journeys for adults. Legroom is limited, making it uncomfortable for extended trips for anyone larger than a child.

Q4: What is the main difference between the C-Max and Grand C-Max?

The Grand C-Max is the longer, seven-seat version of the C-Max, featuring sliding rear doors for enhanced practicality, whereas the standard C-Max is a five-seater with conventional rear doors.

Q5: Are Ford Grand C-Max models expensive to maintain?

Maintenance costs are generally in line with other Ford vehicles. Regular servicing and addressing minor issues promptly will help keep long-term maintenance costs down. Parts are widely available.

Conclusion

The Ford Grand C-Max can be a very sensible purchase on the used market for families seeking a practical and economical seven-seater. Its strong fuel economy from the diesel engines, good equipment levels, and flexible interior space make it a compelling option. However, potential buyers should be aware of the styling compromises and the potential for issues with the Powershift gearbox on automatic models. A thorough inspection and a comprehensive service history are your best allies when choosing a used Grand C-Max. If you need space and value for money, it's definitely worth a closer look.

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