Ford C-Max 2.0 TDCi Titanium (2008) CAR review

Ford’s C-Max has always looked a little dowdy and functional when compared to its sister S-Max. The latter has shrugged off its size with sharp angles and a car-like drive, and shot off forecourts as a result.

Thankfully Ford has now turned its attention to the baby family carrier, finally giving the C-Max a splash of kinetic design to bring it in line with prettier rivals like Citroen’s C4 Picasso.

So what’s changed with the Ford C-Max facelift?

On the face of it, not much. The C-Max is still a compact, van-like shape but a few subtle alterations have made it just that bit sharper and more interesting to look at.

The biggest exterior changes are found up front. Ford has adorned the C-Max with its new trapezoidal family grille and reshaped the headlights and foglights to give it a bit more S-Max style and presence.

Opt for bi-xenon headlights and the sidelights form a strip which follows the leading edge of the bonnet, looking a little like angry eyebrows when they’re switched on.

Around the back, redesigned rear light clusters feature a strip of LEDs, encased in clear plastic. Overall it looks more aggressive. Perfect for the stressed-out parent late for the school run.

Interior quality has taken a few steps forward but still trails behind the Mondeo, with a few visible moulding lines spoiling the otherwise robust feel. But it’s well laid out and feels tough enough to survive family life. 

Click 'Next' below to read the rest of our Ford Focus C-Max first drive