The Ford Grand C-MAX 1.5 TDCi 120 PS with Start/Stop (S&S) represents a significant iteration of Ford’s compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), produced from April 2015 to June 2019. This variant, part of the facelifted second generation of the C-MAX, aimed to balance fuel efficiency with practicality for family transport. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Grand C-MAX lineup, it slotted between the lower-powered 1.0 EcoBoost models and the more expensive, higher-specification trims. The Grand C-MAX, in general, was primarily marketed in Europe as a versatile vehicle catering to families needing space and flexibility, competing with models like the Volkswagen Touran and Opel/Vauxhall Meriva.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | C-MAX |
| Generation | Grand C-MAX (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 TDCi (120 Hp) S&S |
| 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) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 113 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.9 kg/Hp, 84.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 189.3 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 | 1426 kg (3143.79 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2225 kg (4905.29 lbs.) |
| Max load | 799 kg (1761.49 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 | Manual transmission |
| 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Grand C-MAX variant is the 1.5-liter TDCi diesel engine, specifically utilizing engine codes XWDA, XWDB, XWDC, XWDD, or XWDE depending on the specific market and production date. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline configuration, featuring a turbocharger with intercooling to enhance power and efficiency. The engine employs a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at high pressure for optimized combustion. The valvetrain utilizes a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with two valves per cylinder. The Start/Stop system, denoted by the “S&S” designation, automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary (e.g., at traffic lights) to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. The engine produces 120 horsepower at 3600 rpm and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. This engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 TDCi 120 PS Grand C-MAX offers a practical and economical driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 12.3 seconds, which is adequate for everyday driving but doesn’t offer particularly sporty performance. The engine’s torque peak, available from relatively low revs, provides sufficient pulling power for overtaking and carrying a full load of passengers and luggage. Compared to the lower-powered 1.0 EcoBoost versions, the 1.5 TDCi offers more effortless cruising and better performance when fully loaded. However, it lacks the outright punch of higher-output diesel variants. The six-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine, providing smooth gear changes and allowing the driver to keep the engine in its optimal power band. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency rather than outright acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 TDCi 120 PS Grand C-MAX typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These generally 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, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, 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 McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link system at the rear. This provides a comfortable ride quality and good handling characteristics. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort and stability, rather than sporty handling. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Grand C-MAX 1.5 TDCi 120 PS was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and fuel-efficient family vehicle. It was praised for its spacious interior, versatile seating arrangements, and comfortable ride. However, some critics noted that the engine could feel a little underpowered when fully loaded or driving on steep inclines. Compared to the 1.0 EcoBoost models, the 1.5 TDCi offered better fuel economy on longer journeys and more relaxed cruising. Compared to higher-output diesel variants, it represented a more affordable option with lower 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. Proper maintenance, including regular oil changes and DPF regeneration, is crucial for long-term reliability. In the used car market, the Grand C-MAX 1.5 TDCi 120 PS represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a spacious and economical family vehicle. Its relatively simple mechanicals and readily available parts contribute to reasonable maintenance costs. The vehicle continues to be a popular choice for families needing a versatile and practical MPV.
