Used Ford S-MAX for sale nearChester

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.8 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.6%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.4 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 250
Average Price: Around £9,000

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 stands out for combining genuine practicality with engaging driving dynamics. This second-generation model, launched in 2015, has earned a reputation as a car for keen drivers as well as families. With all models featuring seven seats, the S-Max offers exceptional versatility—the boot expands to a van-like 2,000 litres with all rear seats folded. The cabin is flooded with light from large windows, and the three individual middle-row seats slide and recline for added comfort. Despite its substantial dimensions, the S-Max remains easy to manoeuvre through traffic and into tight parking spaces, thanks to its excellent driving position and expansive visibility.

The S-Max delivers surprisingly refined driving dynamics for an MPV, with supportive suspension, precise steering and sweetly-weighted controls that make it genuinely enjoyable to drive. Engine options have evolved over time, with early models offering turbocharged petrols and multiple diesels, later rationalised to just two diesel options before being replaced entirely by a 2.5-litre petrol hybrid with CVT automatic. Diesel variants are the standout choice, delivering strong mid-range performance and excellent fuel economy of 45-50mpg. The hybrid achieves up to 50mpg on longer journeys with lower emissions, though its CVT gearbox feels somewhat lethargic. Servicing costs are competitive, and the S-Max's unfashionable status compared to trendy SUVs means excellent value for used buyers.

Best for: Families seeking a practical seven-seater that's genuinely enjoyable to drive, those wanting excellent boot space and versatility, and buyers prioritising value in the MPV segment.

Not ideal for: Those requiring maximum third-row legroom, buyers seeking the latest hybrid technology with responsive performance, or those preferring petrol engines over diesels due to fuel consumption concerns.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the S-Max if: You're seeking a practical seven-seater that's genuinely enjoyable to drive, want excellent boot space and versatility, or are prioritising value in the MPV segment.

Consider alternatives if: You require maximum third-row legroom, prefer the latest hybrid technology with responsive performance, or are concerned about petrol engine fuel consumption.

Competitive Position: The Ford S-Max is a standout choice in the seven-seat MPV market, offering superior driving dynamics compared to its rivals. Whilst the Peugeot 5008 achieves higher user ratings and the Volkswagen Touran offers marginally better value deals, the S-Max excels in combining practicality with engaging handling. Its unfashionable status compared to trendy SUVs translates to excellent value for used buyers, making it one of the most recommendable seven-seaters currently available. The S-Max delivers a genuinely enjoyable driving experience that far exceeds expectations for such a large family car.

Read our full Ford S-Max Review

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