Ford‘s S-max is the staple choice for large seven-seat people carriers, with it being the least boxy and best-driving people carrier available.

Despite being the baby sister of the carmaker’s Galaxy, there’s still ample room, and plenty of light in the cabin, thanks to the extended sunroof.

The updated model, which features exterior tweaks such as a new bonnet and bumper, uses Ford’s new Ecoboost petrol engine that’s quiet and smooth and offers plenty of oomph.

Clever technology cuts emissions on the 202hp model, but a diesel is still the more obvious choice for the fleet buyer: the Ecoboost car, as tested, emits 189g/km CO2, meaning 26% benefit-in-kind tax with cost per mile at 68.5p. Meanwhile, the most popular fleet model, the S-max Titanium 2.0 TDCi 139hp manual, falls under the 160g/km bracket, meaning 23% BIK.

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Ford S-Max 2.0 SCTi Ecoboost
202hp Titanium X Sport 6-sp auto
P11D price £27,415
Model price range £20,645-£27,345
Fuel consumption 34.9mpg
CO2 (tax) 189g/km/(26%)
BIK 20/40% per month £119/£238
Service interval 12,500mls
Insurance group 25
Warranty 3yrs/60,000mls
Boot space (min/max) 285/2000 litres
Engine size/power 1997cc/202hp
Top speed/0-62mph 137mph/8.5secs
Score 8/10
Verdict A good car, but diesel a
more fleet-friendly choice