Ford Galaxy 2.0 TDCi 180 version in 2015

The Ford Galaxy is the largest of Ford’s MPVs and it’s also the most spacious. A seven-seater, the back two seats fold electronically into the floor and the central row of seats drops down at the press of a button, so it’s extremely practical.

The latest Ford Galaxy is still good to drive but has traded a little of the previous model’s sharp handling for comfort and refinement, for which it’s now one of the best in the large MPV class.

There’s a good range of 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engines available with four different power outputs, a pair of Ecoboost petrol engines and for the first time, a four-wheel-drive version. You’re unlikely to be disappointed by the standard equipment list, too. 

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Ford Galaxy 2.0 TDCI 150PS Titanium

The third-generation Ford Galaxy is the largest of the four MPVs that Ford currently produces and it’s more practical and spacious than its sportier S-MAX sister car. It goes up against rival seven-seat MPVs such as the Volkswagen Sharan, the Citroen Grand C4 Picasso, the SEAT Alhambra and the Renault Grand Scenic.

The Galaxy has always been big, but with its new family face and upmarket interior packed with technology, it’s being advertised by Ford as a ‘first-class’ way to travel. Adults can fit in all three rows of seats, and when it’s not needed, the third row folds electrically into the boot floor, while the second row flops forward at the touch of a button.

On the move the focus is on comfort and refinement rather than sporty handling, but it’s still among the more enjoyable MPVs to drive. Well-weighted steering complements a range of strong but smooth diesel and EcoBoost petrol engines, along with six-speed manual or Powershift automatic gearboxes. Plus, for the first time the Galaxy can also be ordered with four-wheel drive for extra grip in slippery conditions.

The diesels are likely to be the big sellers, particularly the 148bhp 2.0-litre TDCi version, which strikes the best balance between price, power and economy. The same 2.0-litre diesel engine is available with 119bhp, 178bhp or 207bhp. 

If you like your MPVs fast then there’s a 237bhp 2.0-litre Ecoboost petrol model at the top of the range that’s good for 0-62mph in 8.6 seconds, while the 158bhp petrol is the cheapest engine in the range and is well suited to low-mileage drivers. 

There are three trims levels: Zetec, Titanium and Titanium X – and even the entry-level model comes with 17-inch wheels, an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, and dual-zone climate control.

Mid-level Titanium models add sat-nav, LED running lights and keyless entry, while top-spec Titanium X cars get a panoramic roof, leather seats and powered tailgate as standard.

SourcE: autoexpress.co.uk