Ford Iosis Max

The future is bright for the C-Max, as we try concept of next compact MPV.

Auto Express Car Reviews

By James Foxall

July 2009

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The future of Ford is here! This is the Iosis MAX, a stunning family car concept revealed to a rapturous reception at the Geneva Motor Show back in March.

Previewing a replacement for the C-MAX compact MPV, which is set to debut at this September’s Frankfurt expo, it seeks to repeat the success of the S-MAX with vibrant design and sporty dynamics.

To see what we can expect from the new C-MAX, we put the Iosis MAX through its paces.

With sliding rear doors we’re told will star on the production model, practicality features highly. But the Iosis MAX shows Ford has learned from the S-MAX that versatility doesn’t have to come at the expense of design. It’s a fantastic car to look at!

The A-pillar’s line as it continues down through the bonnet to the trapezoidal grille is particularly striking, as is the way the waistline nips in ahead of the rear wheels.

But arguably the cleverest addition is the tailgate, which is split into three for easy loading. Push one button and the bottom section hinges out; press a second and the window opens on its own. If you push a third, they operate together to give access equivalent to a traditional tailgate.

In the cabin, the centre console-mounted skeleton seats help give a feeling of space with no bulky bases. However, Ford admits these are years from production – and the futuristic dash with touch-sensitive pads in place of buttons is also unlikely to be seen in showrooms any time soon.

The engine, though, will be in the Mondeo and S-MAX from early next year. And it’s a gem! The 1.6-litre turbo is the first of Ford’s new EcoBoost direct-injection units, and combines improved power with better economy and emissions.

On the move, the Iosis MAX is very punchy, with plenty of low-down torque. We’d estimate 0-60mph in around 7.5 seconds and a top speed of around 135mph. What’s more it’s super-smooth, while the twin-clutch PowerShift gearbox gives silky changes.

And the driving dynamics? Well, as this model is based on Focus mechanicals, the final version shouldn’t disappoint. The current C-MAX is by far the best-handling MPV in its class, and we’d expect its replacement to offer sharp steering, brilliant body control and real agility.

Families won’t be short-changed, either, with that spacious, airy and practical cabin likely to be available in both five and seven-seater variants, each of which will get removable, sliding chairs.

Good looks will come as standard on both versions, of course – and seeing the lemon yellow Ford on the move is proof that soon the S-MAX will have an equally attractive little sister.

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FIRST OPINION

Ford is going all-out to prove that people carriers don’t have to take second place in the style stakes. If the production C-MAX echoes the adventurous appearance of this concept, the company will be heading in the right direction.

Given that the blue oval believes practicality is a must for cars such as this to be successful, and that finely developed driving dynamics are all but assured, the Iosis MAX shows that the compact MPV sector is due for a shake-up.

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Ford Iosis Max

The future is bright for the C-Max, as we try concept of next compact MPV.

By James Foxall

July 2009

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Ford Iosis Max

The future is bright for the C-Max, as we try concept of next compact MPV.

By James Foxall

July 2009

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FIRST OPINION

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