The Ford Grand C-MAX (facelift, introduced in April 2015 and produced through June 2019) 1.5 TDCi 120 horsepower variant with the PowerShift automatic transmission and seven-seat configuration represented a key offering in Ford’s European compact MPV lineup. Positioned as a mid-range option, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability for families. This model was part of the second generation of the C-MAX, based on the Ford global C-car platform (C307). The facelift brought styling updates and revised equipment levels, enhancing its appeal in a competitive segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | C-MAX |
| Generation | Grand C-MAX (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 TDCi (120 Hp) PowerShift 7 Seat |
| Start of production | April, 2015 |
| End of production | June, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| 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 | 65 l (2.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1715 l (60.56 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 | 1557 mm (61.3 in.) |
| Rear track | 1569 mm (61.77 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, 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 |
| 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Grand C-MAX variant is 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 and intercooler 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 valvetrain utilizes a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with two valves per cylinder. The 120 horsepower output is achieved at 3600 rpm, while peak torque of 270 Nm (199 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. It operates similarly to a traditional manual transmission but uses two separate clutches for smoother and faster shifts.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 TDCi 120 hp PowerShift combination in the Grand C-MAX delivers a comfortable and practical driving experience, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 12.7 seconds, and 0-100 km/h in 13.4 seconds, making it suitable for everyday commuting and family transport. The PowerShift transmission provides relatively quick and smooth gear changes, although some drivers have reported occasional hesitation at low speeds. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, meaning the engine doesn’t rev excessively during highway cruising. Compared to higher-output versions of the C-MAX, such as those with the 1.6-liter EcoBoost petrol engine, this diesel variant offers less spirited acceleration but significantly better fuel economy. Against manual diesel versions, the PowerShift offers convenience, but some drivers prefer the more direct feel of a manual gearbox.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 TDCi 120 hp PowerShift 7-seat Grand C-MAX 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 adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
Chassis & Braking
The Grand C-MAX features an independent suspension setup on both the front and rear axles. The front utilizes a McPherson strut design with a coil spring and anti-roll bar, while the rear employs a multi-link suspension system, also with a stabilizer bar. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality and decent handling characteristics. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on the front wheels (300x25mm) and solid discs on the rear wheels (280x11mm). Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Grand C-MAX 1.5 TDCi 120 hp PowerShift was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient family vehicle. Its spacious interior, versatile seating configuration, and decent driving dynamics were praised. However, the PowerShift transmission received some criticism for occasional jerky shifts and reliability concerns. Compared to rivals like the Volkswagen Touran and Citroën C4 Picasso, the Grand C-MAX offered a competitive package in terms of price, space, and fuel economy. The 1.5 TDCi engine provided a good balance between performance and efficiency, making it a popular choice for those prioritizing running costs.
Legacy
The 1.5 TDCi engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not driven on longer journeys regularly. The PowerShift transmission, while offering convenience, has a history of potential clutch failures and software glitches, requiring careful maintenance and occasional repairs. In the used car market, this variant of the Grand C-MAX represents a relatively affordable option for families seeking a spacious and economical MPV. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential issues with the DPF and PowerShift transmission and ensure a thorough inspection before purchase.
