CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.4 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.8%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.2 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 360
Average Price: Around £5,270

Ford C-Max (2011-2019) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Fun to drive for an MPV	Pre-facelift cars feel a bit cheap inside
Practical and roomy cabin	Models with an auto gearbox have worse fuel economy
Grand C-Max has room for seven and sliding doors	Not as many driver aids as some more modern MPVs

Quick Summary

The Ford C-Max (2011-2019) is a compact MPV that combines practicality with engaging driving dynamics. This second-generation model features sharper styling than its predecessor and offers seating for five in standard form or seven in the Grand C-Max variant. With a 471-litre boot that expands to 1,851 litres with rear seats folded, the C-Max provides excellent space for families. A 2015 facelift brought improved exterior styling and a smarter interior with enhanced infotainment, including the responsive SYNC3 system on later models.

The C-Max excels where rivals like the Renault Scenic and Citroën C4 Picasso fall short: it's more robust, reliable, and genuinely enjoyable to drive. With sharp steering and composed handling, it delivers a stress-free yet engaging driving experience. Engine options range from efficient 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrols to economical 1.5-litre diesels, with the 1.5 TDCi achieving up to 74.3mpg. Running costs are reasonable, with servicing available at competitive independent garages. The C-Max represents excellent value as MPVs fall out of favour, keeping prices down for savvy buyers.

Best for: Families needing practical space without sacrificing driving enjoyment, those seeking excellent value in the MPV market, and buyers wanting a versatile vehicle with engaging handling.

Not ideal for: Those prioritising the latest driver assistance systems, buyers wanting a premium interior feel on pre-facelift models, or those requiring automatic gearboxes with optimal fuel economy.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the C-Max if: You're a family needing practical space without sacrificing driving enjoyment, seeking excellent value in the MPV market, or wanting a versatile vehicle with engaging handling.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise the latest driver assistance systems, want a premium interior feel on all models, or require automatic gearboxes with optimal fuel economy.

Competitive Position: The Ford C-Max (2011-2019) is a standout all-rounder in the MPV segment, offering a rare combination of practicality and driving engagement. Whilst the Citroën C4 Picasso provides more distinctive styling and greater interior flexibility, the C-Max delivers superior robustness and reliability. It's more enjoyable to drive than the Renault Scenic and offers better value than premium rivals. The C-Max represents an intelligent choice for families unwilling to compromise on driving pleasure, especially as falling MPV popularity keeps prices competitive.

Read our full Ford C-Max Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from June 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.