Ford S-MAX Titanium

The Ford S-MAX Titanium will likely be the most popular trim model in the slightly sporty MPV's range, and for good reason. The Titanium version comes loaded with desirable kit like automatic headlights and windscreen wipers, Ford's SYNC 2 sat-nav system with Bluetooth, DAB radio and cruise control. That's on top of the Zetec version's rear parking sensors and keyless entry.

Although the S-MAX may have lost its edge in terms of exciting handling, it's still more fun to drive than most other MPVs. Couple that with a strong engine range and it's not hard to find a winning combination with the S-MAX. There's a 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol engine for if you don't drive regularly, or a range of diesel engines that are better suited to this kind of car. You can specify four-wheel-drive or an automatic gearbox with the diesel range, too.

Spot the difference fans will have a treat telling this and the slightly larger Ford Galaxy MPV apart, but the design is modern and clean. It does look slightly sportier than the Galaxy, with a swooping roofline towards the rear and lower suspension, but they largely look the same.

Good points

If you fold all of the S-MAX's rear seats flat, up to 2,020 litres of boot space is available. That's 169 litres more than the Citroen Grand C4 Picasso offers.Although it's not as good its predecessor, the S-MAX is definitely one of the better MPVs to drive. It blends sharp steering and not much body lean with comfortable suspension.Like the smaller C-MAX and larger Galaxy, the S-MAX is sharply styled and very modern looking.

Bad points

The rearmost seats are strictly for children, as the sloping roofline and high floor will make trips uncomfortable for adults.The SYNC 2 infotainment system may offer a world of connectivity options, but it can be a little difficult to get used to. The touchscreen works differently to a smartphones, so there's a lot of forced presses and fiddly menu operations.Some key safety equipment, like Active City Stop - Ford's version of autonomous emergency braking, is optional.

What you get

• Alloy wheels
• Folding rear seats
• Electric folding wing mirrors
• Alarm
• Rear parking sensors
• Tyre pressure sensors
• Passenger & Driver airbag
• Front side airbags
• Curtain airbags
• Front fog lights
• Auto climate control
• Leather steering wheel
• Height adjustable driver's seat
• Front electric windows
• Single CD player
• AUX stereo input
• DAB Radio
• Cruise control
• Sat nav
• Stop/Start
• Automatic wipers
• Sports seats
• Rear electric windows
• Bluetooth

Recommended optional extras

• Hands-free tailgate
• Titanium Family Pack

Our choice

The 178bhp 2.0-litre diesel engine delivers plenty of power for carrying all of your family and luggage around, yet delivers the exact same fuel economy figures as the lesser-powered 148bhp model. Up to 57mpg is possible, while emissions of 129g/km means road tax of £110 per year.