Unveiled by Ford at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show, the Ford S-MAX is a new model in the Ford range, which in size terms is to be positioned below the full size seven-seat Ford Galaxy MPV.

Production of the new Ford S-MAX and Ford Galaxy has began on April 18, 2006 at Ford's assembly plant in Genk , Belgium.

The name S-MAX indicates that it matches sports style and driving pleasure with flexible and spacious accommodation.

Design

Both the S-MAX and the Galaxy models have been designed and developed in-house by Ford of Europe.

The S-MAX is the first production model from the company to feature elements of the kinetic design direction first shown on the Iosis concept vehicle at the 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show.

This has been made possible by Ford’s shared technology approach, which has the potential to create more diverse body styles and vehicle formats.

While the new generation Ford Galaxy takes the attributes of flexibility, spaciousness, and safe and comfortable driving to new levels, the Ford S-MAX takes Ford into a new market sector.

According to Ford, the S-MAX is not just a compact version of the Galaxy: it represents an innovative synthesis between a sportscar and a leisure-vehicle, a multi-functional crossover with the roominess of a SUV, the line of a coupé, the style of a station wagon and the dynamics of a sportscar.

Interiors

The interior space offers roominess and a high level of flexibility, thanks to the Ford Flat System, that enables to have up to 32 layouts. The rear seats can be folded completely to obtain a perfectly flat loading floor.

The third row of seats is available as an option: it can transport 2 passengers shorter than 1.80 meters.

Features

The S-MAX+ version features ABS, EBD and the innovative corner brake system (CMbB), ESP+TCS and EBA, 9 airbags c(including an airbag for the driver's knees) and the Human Machine interface system (HMI).

Among the available engines are the Duratec 2.0 liters 145cv and 2.5 liters 220cv (petrol units)and the diesel Duratorq TDCi 1.8 125cv and 2.0 140cv, both with a six speed gearbox.

Announced prices for Italian market are between 24,600.00 € and 29,100.00 € for the S-MAX Titanium with the 2.5, 5 cylinders turbocharged unit.

(Source: Ford)