Ford Grand C-MAX MPV (2011-2019) - Engines, drive & performance
The Ford Grand C-MAX MPV has good engines and handles like a much smaller car
As is standard for Fords recently, the Ford Grand C-MAX has steering that’s agile and responsive, while the ride – now softer and more sensible – is very good indeed. The Grand C-MAX also belies its MPV dimensions with very little body lean through corners, proving very well controlled and agile for a tall car and rendering it one of the most – if not the most – enjoyable mini-MPVs to drive. The Grand C-MAX's engine range benefits from being quiet and refined and there's only minor wind noise when travelling at speed.
Ford Grand C-MAX petrol engines
Ford's EcoBoost petrol engines are small, but you shouldn't be put off by their low capacity, because most of them are actually quicker off the mark than their diesel equivalents and have reasonable mid-range punch. This makes them great for town driving and low to medium-mileage drivers – so they’re well worth considering over the diesels if your car journeys mainly consist of school runs and shopping.
The entry-level 99bhp 1.0-litre is a bit on the slow side – it takes 13.7 seconds to reach 62mph from rest and is a bit underpowered for a car the size of the Grand C-MAX. The 123bhp version of the same engine is a bit better, taking 11.6 seconds to do 0-62mph, while the 148bhp 1.5-litre is the quickest, taking 10.5 seconds.
Diesel engines
The Ford TDCi diesel engines are smooth, frugal and perfect for high-mileage or motorway drivers. The Grand C-MAX is available with a 118bhp 1.5-litre version with a 0-62mph time of 12.3 seconds (13.4 seconds for the automatic model), but it still has a reasonable amount of pulling power. This engine is most popular, due to its relatively solid economy figure and decent power.
