New Ford S-MAX Strengthens Range

Sporty to look at and drive while maximising space and flexibility - welcome to the new Ford S-MAX.

Ford has officially named the production version of its SAV Concept vehicle. It will be called the Ford S-MAX to indicate that it matches sports style and driving pleasure with flexible and spacious accommodation.

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. It will be built alongside the new Ford Galaxy at Ford's production facility in Genk, Belgium. Prices for S-MAX will be announced later in the year closer to its launch date.

Further details and technical specifications will be released to coincide with the car's public debut at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show in March.

The Ford S-MAX demonstrates the potential within the large car market for a non-traditional three-seat-row vehicle with the profile, proportions and appearance that reflect an active lifestyle. It also indicates the potential for even more diversity in the heart of the Ford family car range, taking Ford into a new segment of the market.

S-MAX customers will benefit from the new Ford Fold Flat System (FFS) providing a seven seating configuration. This takes the flexible accommodation offered by Ford's other MAX vehicle, the Ford Focus C-MAX, one step further, while its S designation indicates that maximum space is provided in a sporty profile, and without sacrificing driving pleasure or style.

With the Ford S-MAX and the new Ford Galaxy, Ford is expanding its presence significantly in the large car market. To do this the company has executed the programme completely in-house, in contrast with the joint venture that produced the highly successful, previous Ford Galaxy model. 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 Frankfurt Motor Show last year.

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