Used Ford Grand C-Max 2011-2019 review

After the initial success of the Focus-based, five-seat C-Max MPV, Ford launched the second-generation version as a slightly bigger and much smarter car than the original, edging it further upmarket.

However, despite its appeal, there were still those for whom seven seats were either a must or an occasional need, so to cater for them the firm came up with the longer Grand C-Max, which includes an extra pair of rear seats that fold up out of the boot floor. On the plus side, this added in the practicality to let the car compete with seven-seat MPVs and SUVs aplenty; on the minus side, it compromised the standard C-Max’s stylish exterior a little and added a bit of extra weight to the mix.

However, for those after either economy or oomph there are at least a good range of engine options. The petrols kick off with two versions of the 1.0-litre Ecoboost three-cylinder engine, in either 100 or 125 trim, and a 1.6 125 four-cylinder unit, while diesels come in 1.5 TDCi and 2.0 TDCi forms. The 1.0 125 engine is smooth, peppy and rather good fun, while the 1.5 diesel has enough low-down punch to push the Grand C-Max around with panache.

Standard kit is generous, with three trims to choose from. The entry-level Zetec models have 16in alloys, Ford's Quickclear front windscreen, sports-style seats, air conditioning and a DAB radio. Mid-range Titanium offers 17in alloys, automatic headlights and wipers, dual-zone climate control, rear parking sensors, and keyless start and entry, there is also the inclusion of Ford's Sync 3 infotainment system with an 8.0in touchscreen.

The range-topping Titanium X Grand C-Maxs get larger alloys, a panoramic sunroof, xenon headlights, a partial leather interior and heated front seats all as standard.

To drive the Grand C-Max is gutsy and likeable, with any of its engine options under the bonnet. It corners with more vigour than most of its rivals, and its steering is quick and accurate, although there is a fair bit of body lean through faster corners. Ride comfort is very good, however, with the damping softening even the worst bumps and ruts. The Grand C-Max is set up to be a little softer than the ordinary C-Max, and it shows in its overall suppleness.

Inside, the driving position and visibility are both good, and the dashboard design and its layout is familiar Ford, with logically placed buttons (though quite a number of them ) and a fiddly touchscreen.

It is deceptively spacious inside, with sliding rear doors and a clever set-up that allows the centre seat of the second row to fold beneath one of the others, leaving a ‘walk-through’ space. Ford calls the model a ‘six-plus-one’ layout, rather than a simple seven-seater. There’s good space in the second row seats for three adults abreast, and two children will be happy for short journeys in the rearmost third row. With all seven seats upright and in use, boot space is limited to just 92 litres, but fold them flat and this expands to a full 1742 litres should you need it.

Think about £5500 for a good 2011 Grand C-Max, with an average mileage for the year and a full history, bought from an independent dealer. Spend between £6000 and £8000 and you should see a good 2012 or 2013 car bought from a trader, while £8000 to £10,000 will net you a 2014 or 2015 model with an average mileage. Pay around £10,000 for a 2016 model, and between £10,000 and £12,000 for a 2017 car.

The 1.0 Ecoboost engines both have the same claimed fuel consumption figures at 54.3mpg and the same CO2 emissions of 119g/km. The one to pick for frugality is the 1.5 TDCi 120 diesel, with claimed figures of 64.2mpg and 113g/km. Annual car tax rates for cars registered before the April 2017 changes are fairly similar, and exactly the same for those registered after, all being taxed at the flat rate.

Insurance groups range from 13 to 26 for the highly specced versions of the 2.0 TDCi diesel models. Servicing on the Grand C-Max isn’t too costly, and parts will be cheap to buy if something does go wrong. Cars over three years of age will qualify for Ford’s Motorcraft servicing regime, under which an annual service at a Ford dealer will cost £149. You'll pay even less at an independent Ford specialist.

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Unless you do a lot of miles, we’d prefer to rock up in a car with the 1.0 Ecoboost 125 engine, which is a smooth unit and has just enough power to propel a fully loaded Grand C-Max and remain reasonably economical. The entry-level Zetec trim has most of the kit you’d want, so we’d stick with that.

Our favourite Ford Grand C-Max: 1.0 Ecoboost 125 Zetec

The Volkswagen Touran is an award-winning MPV with seven useful seats and plenty of space in its classy interior. It has Isofix points on all five rear seats, decent economy and getting in and out of it is a cinch.

The Citroen Grand C4 Picasso is spacious, practical, has superb visibility and an economical range of engines. It’s larger than the Grand C-Max and comes without a sliding rear door, but it’s also cheaper to buy used.

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