Ford Galaxy and S-Max MPVs given mild refresh

Ford has freshened up its ageing Galaxy and S-Max ranges with tweaked exterior designs and new wheel options. The new models are on sale now, with prices starting from £30,490 for the S-Max and £33,210 for the Galaxy.

Each of Ford’s seven-seat MPV pairing receives exterior styling tweaks which, beyond their rooflines, helps to differentiate the pair on the road. Both cars get a new grille - slightly rounder and larger than on earlier versions - which is blacked out on the S-Max ST Line and finished in satin chrome for Vignale variants. The Galaxy, meanwhile, features bright chrome highlights. 

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Each now gets a unique bumper, too: the S-Max gets a more sporty look to tie in with its more rakish roofline; the Galaxy’s, on the other hand, features extra chrome trim. Both variants are now offered with new 19-inch alloy wheel designs.

Inside, both models are now fitted with new front seats, while also Ford claims up to 32 seating layout combinations for each. The second and third row seats can be dropped at the push of a button, while the third row seats in the Galaxy can be electrically raised, too.

Ford has boosted in-car tech with the introduction of a WiFi hotspot, which allows connectivity for up to 10 mobile devices at once. It also aims to improve safety, as it offers the facility to discover local hazard information and warn the driver of any dangers on the road ahead. The data works independently of the car’s navigation system, and is sourced from local authorities, emergency services, and driving data from any other vehicles connected online.

Further safety enhancements include the standard fitment of Pre-Collision Assist - a forward collision warning system that detects both pedestrians and vehicles - throughout the S-Max and Galaxy ranges. Adaptive cruise control, which can operate in stop and start traffic is also available.

As before, the S-Max and Galaxy are offered with a choice of 148bhp and 187bhp variants of a 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine. Buyers can choose from a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic gearbox.

What do you think of the updated Ford Galaxy and S-Max? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below...