The Ford Grand C-MAX 1.5 TDCi (120 hp) PowerShift, produced from April 2015 to June 2019, represents a significant iteration of Ford’s compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) offering. This variant, part of the facelifted second-generation C-MAX range, aimed to balance fuel efficiency with practicality for families. Positioned as a mid-range option within the Grand C-MAX lineup, it slotted between the lower-powered diesel variants and the more potent gasoline engines. The Grand C-MAX itself was designed primarily for the European market, offering a spacious and versatile interior within a relatively compact footprint, appealing to buyers needing flexible seating and cargo configurations.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | C-MAX |
| Generation | Grand C-MAX (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 TDCi (120 Hp) PowerShift |
| Start of production | April, 2015 |
| End of production | June, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 129 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 178 km/h (110.6 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.1 kg/Hp, 82.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 185.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | XWDA, XWDB, XWDC, XWDD, XWDE |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73.5 mm (2.89 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.85 l (4.07 US qt | 3.39 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.3 l (7.71 US qt | 6.42 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1457 kg (3212.14 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2250 kg (4960.4 lbs.) |
| Max load | 793 kg (1748.27 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1787 l (63.11 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4519 mm (177.91 in.) |
| Width | 1828 mm (71.97 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1858 mm (73.15 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2067 mm (81.38 in.) |
| Height | 1642 mm (64.65 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2788 mm (109.76 in.) |
| Front track | 1543 mm (60.75 in.) |
| Rear track | 1554 mm (61.18 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission PowerShift |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 300×25 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 280×11 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 215/55 R16; 215/50 R17; 235/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 16; 7J x 17; 8J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The Ford Grand C-MAX 1.5 TDCi 120 hp PowerShift, introduced with the 2015 facelift, offered a practical and economical option within Ford’s MPV range. Built on the C2 platform (also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform), this variant aimed to appeal to families seeking a versatile vehicle for everyday use. The facelift brought updated styling, improved interior materials, and enhanced technology compared to the pre-2015 models. This particular engine and transmission combination was designed to provide a balance between acceptable performance and competitive fuel economy, making it a popular choice in European markets.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Grand C-MAX variant lies the 1.5-liter TDCi diesel engine, specifically utilizing engine codes like XWDA, XWDB, XWDC, XWDD, and XWDE. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline configuration, featuring a turbocharger with intercooling to boost power and efficiency. The engine employs a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the cylinders at high pressure for optimized combustion. The single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operates two valves per cylinder. The 120 hp output is achieved at 3600 rpm, while peak torque of 270 Nm (199.14 lb.-ft.) is available between 1750 and 2500 rpm, providing good low-end responsiveness. Paired with this engine is Ford’s six-speed PowerShift dual-clutch transmission (DCT). This transmission offers automated gear changes while maintaining the efficiency benefits of a manual gearbox. The PowerShift utilizes two separate clutches for even gear changes, resulting in smoother and quicker shifts compared to a traditional automatic transmission.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 TDCi 120 hp PowerShift Grand C-MAX delivers adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes around 13.4 seconds. The PowerShift transmission contributes to a relatively smooth driving experience, although some drivers have reported occasional hesitation at low speeds. The engine’s torque characteristics make it well-suited for everyday driving, providing sufficient power for overtaking and navigating urban environments. Compared to higher-output versions of the C-MAX, such as those with gasoline engines, this diesel variant prioritizes fuel economy over outright speed. The gear ratios in the PowerShift transmission are tuned for efficiency, meaning the engine doesn’t rev as high as it would in a manual version, contributing to lower fuel consumption. However, this can also result in a slightly less engaging driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Grand C-MAX 1.5 TDCi 120 hp PowerShift typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels, such as Titanium, added features like automatic climate control, a larger touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, rear parking sensors, and upgraded interior upholstery. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, leather seats, and advanced driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking.
Chassis & Braking
The Grand C-MAX features an independent suspension setup, with a McPherson strut configuration at the front and a multi-link system at the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. A stabilizer bar is included on both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering is electrically assisted, providing light and precise control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Grand C-MAX 1.5 TDCi 120 hp PowerShift was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and economical family vehicle. Its fuel economy figures of around 5 liters per 100 km (47 US mpg) were considered competitive within its segment. However, the PowerShift transmission received some criticism due to reports of occasional reliability issues and jerky shifts. Compared to the 1.0 EcoBoost gasoline engine variants, the 1.5 TDCi offered better fuel economy but less overall performance. Against other diesel-powered MPVs, such as the Volkswagen Touran and Citroën C4 Picasso, the Grand C-MAX offered a compelling combination of space, practicality, and value.
Legacy
The Ford Grand C-MAX 1.5 TDCi 120 hp PowerShift remains a relatively common sight on the used car market. While the PowerShift transmission’s potential reliability issues are a concern, regular maintenance and careful driving can mitigate these risks. The 1.5 TDCi engine itself is generally considered to be robust and reliable. The Grand C-MAX’s spacious interior and versatile seating configurations continue to appeal to families seeking a practical and affordable MPV. Its fuel efficiency and relatively low running costs make it an attractive option for those looking for an economical vehicle.
