Used Ford S-MAX for sale near Chelmsford

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.8 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.5%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.4 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 250
Average Price: Around £7,600

Ford S-Max (2015-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Better to drive than other MPVs	Third row is cramped compared with the Ford Galaxy's
Vast boot with the third row folded	Hybrid models aren't quite so good to drive
Well equipped	Petrol models are very thirsty

Quick Summary

The Ford S-Max is a seven-seat MPV that has earned a reputation for being a car not just for families but for keen drivers too. It is incredibly practical and versatile, yet genuinely satisfying from behind the wheel—something rarely said about MPVs. With all models featuring seven seats, the S-Max offers a vast 2,000-litre boot with rear seats folded, excellent visibility, and clever storage solutions including Isofix points for three child seats. The multi-adjustable driver's seat and spacious pedal box ensure a perfect driving position, whilst large windows flood the cabin with light, making it easy to navigate despite its substantial dimensions.

Despite its large size and family-friendly approach, the S-Max delivers finessed driving dynamics with super-supportive suspension, impressive grip, precise steering and sweetly-weighted controls. Early models offered petrol and diesel options, but from 2021 onwards, only a 2.5-litre petrol hybrid with CVT automatic is available. Diesel engines are the best choice for fuel economy, achieving 45-50mpg, whilst hybrid models offer comparable emissions and excellent efficiency on longer journeys. Servicing costs are amongst the lowest of any major dealer network, and the S-Max's unfashionable status compared to trendy SUVs means excellent discounts are available on the used market.

Best for: Families seeking a practical seven-seater that is genuinely enjoyable to drive, those wanting excellent value through discounts, and buyers prioritising versatility and comfort over trendy badge appeal.

Not ideal for: Those needing maximum third-row space (the Ford Galaxy offers more), buyers wanting the latest hybrid technology to feel responsive, or those seeking a petrol-only option with good fuel economy.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the S-Max if: You're seeking a practical seven-seater that is genuinely enjoyable to drive, want excellent value through discounts, or prioritise versatility and comfort over trendy badge appeal.

Consider alternatives if: You need maximum third-row space, want the latest hybrid technology to feel responsive, or require a petrol-only option with good fuel economy.

Competitive Position: The Ford S-Max (2015-present) is a strong contender in the seven-seat MPV market, offering superior driving dynamics compared to rivals. Whilst the Peugeot 5008 offers slightly better value deals and the Citroën Grand C4 Picasso achieves higher user ratings, the S-Max excels in delivering an engaging drive without compromising practicality. Its unfashionable status compared to trendy SUVs means excellent discounts are readily available, making it an outstanding choice for families wanting a genuinely enjoyable car that doesn't feel like a compromise.

Read our full Ford S-Max Review

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