Ford S-MAX - Pictures

Ford is refined at speed and relaxing to drive, but when lined up against the VW, it’s short on mid-range power

Build quality in the S-MAX is faultless, although standard kit isn’t quite as generous as in its rivals

The Ford’s cabin is well thought out, and the plunging handbrake is one of many stylish touches

Mats attached to the rearmost seats fold out to cover the boot floor, but they’re fiddly to use

Each seat in the middle row slides individually, and even when farthest forward, leg space is very good

At more than two metres, the S-MAX has the longest boot. It’s also the widest, and the floor is commendably flat. There is extra storage under the floor, which is a big help when the rear seats are in use