Once the preserve of smaller cars in the range, Ford has now added its diminutive 1.0-litre 100hp three-cylinder Ecoboost petrol engine to the seven-seat Grand C-max MPV and its five-seat C-max sibling.
A titchy engine powering a seven-seat compact MPV doesn’t sound like the most suitable of matches, but the Ford holds its own on the road. At town speeds in particular, the Ecoboost model is arguably more capable than its diesel equivalents, with more instant and smooth acceleration. It’s better than you’d think at higher speeds too, while figures of 119g/km (the lowest of the Grand C-max range), 54.3mpg and 49.7ppm are respectable for a seven-seat people carrier.
The diesels are likely to remain the volume sellers, but the costs for this model stack up well – equivalent diesel versions are more expensive and have higher emissions – so it’s worth considering if you’re looking at seven seats and low-to-average mileage.
