Ford B-MAX: Safest small MPV

If you need a small people carrier that’s big on safety, you’re spoilt for choice. Two models shared the honours for safest Small MPV tested in 2012 – the Fiat 500L and the innovative Ford B-MAX. And both have since been upstaged in 2013 by the Citroen C4 Picasso. 

The B-MAX's unusual design, which ditches with the strengthening pillar that would normally secure the hinged front doors and sliding rear doors, provides real benefits when it comes to getting in and out.

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Best of all, though, is the fact such wide door openings do nothing to compromise crash safety. In fact, with mechanisms that lock the rear doors to both the front doors and the surrounding bodywork it proves to be even safer than many of its more conventional rivals; it scored maximum points in the side barrier test.

We also rate it highly on account of its brilliant range of engines, entertaining driving dynamics and the practical benefits of its cleverly engineered doors. Engine options include smooth and efficient EcoBoost petrols units and economical TDCi diesels, so whatever you're looking for, there should be a B-MAX that fits the bill.

Read our latest run down of the best MPVs