Sold as the MPV for those who didn't want one, Ford's C-Max has always been a car that put the fun back into transporting the family. With its great engines, neat looks and excellent dynamics, the C-Max offers fun in a segment where it's often sadly lacking. However, for a segment that should major on practicality, the C-Max isn't as versatile as it could be, but that doesn't stop it from being a desirable family hold-all.
Key Dates
10/03: The Focus C-Max debuts with 1.6 or 1.8-litre petrol engines, plus 1.6 or 2.0 TDCi (turbodiesel) units.
7/04: A high-power 115bhp 1.6-litre petrol is introduced.
1/05: A 90bhp entry-level 1.6 TDCi appears
10/05: The 1.6 TDCi gets a diesel particulate filter
7/06: A 113bhp 1.8 TDCi turbodiesel engine joins the range
8/06: The 1.8 petrol engine gets a flexi-fuel option, badged FFV, allowing the car to run on petrol or bio-ethanol.
3/07: A facelifted brings a new nose plus LED rear lights and extra equipment. Any Focus references are dropped, the car now known simply as the C-Max.
Ford C-Max (2003-2010) Checklist
- The front suspension can creak and groan.
- Xenon lights can go awry; repairs are expensive.
- Some people find the seats uncomfortable on long journeys.
- Standard bulbs are a pain to replace - it's best done by a dealer.
- Check that the clutch isn't slipping; premature wear can be an issue.
- Air-con systems can be temperamental.
- The interior trim isn't always especially durable, with many C-Maxes suffering at the hands of small children.
We Like
- Great engines
- Excellent dynamics
- Strong value
- Low running costs
- Practicality
We Don't Like
- Versatility could be greater
- Variable build quality