The Ford Grand C-MAX, specifically the facelifted version produced from 2015 to 2019, offered a range of engine and transmission options to cater to diverse customer needs. Among these, the 1.6 Ti-VCT variant producing 120 horsepower was a popular choice, particularly in European markets. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it balanced affordability with reasonable performance and fuel efficiency. This version of the Grand C-MAX aimed to provide a practical and economical family vehicle within the compact MPV segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | C-MAX |
| Generation | Grand C-MAX (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 Ti-VCT (120 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 154 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 182 km/h (113.09 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.7 kg/Hp, 85.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.8 kg/Nm, 113.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 159 Nm @ 4000 rpm (117.27 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | MUDA, MUDD |
| Engine displacement | 1596 cm3 (97.39 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.4 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1402 kg (3090.88 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2135 kg (4706.87 lbs.) |
| Max load | 733 kg (1615.99 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%) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 735 kg (1620.4 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, 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The Ford Grand C-MAX facelift, launched in 2015, represented a mid-cycle refresh of the popular compact MPV. Built on the Ford C-platform (also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform), the Grand C-MAX offered seven seats as standard, distinguishing it from the five-seater C-MAX. The 1.6 Ti-VCT 120 horsepower engine was a key component of the lineup, aimed at buyers seeking a balance between fuel economy and practicality. This engine was particularly prevalent in European markets where smaller displacement engines were favored due to tax regulations and driving conditions. The facelift brought updated styling, improved interior materials, and enhanced technology features, solidifying the Grand C-MAX’s position as a competitive family vehicle.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 1.6 Ti-VCT engine, designated with engine codes MUDA or MUDD depending on specific calibration and market, is a naturally aspirated, inline-four cylinder petrol engine. “Ti-VCT” stands for Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing, a technology that optimizes valve timing for improved performance and fuel efficiency across the engine’s operating range. The engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The 120 hp output is achieved at 6000 rpm, while peak torque of 159 Nm (117.27 lb-ft) is available at 4000 rpm. The engine features a compression ratio of 11:1. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard pairing for this engine, offering a good balance of fuel economy and driver control. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned to maximize the engine’s efficiency and provide adequate acceleration for everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 Ti-VCT engine in the Grand C-MAX provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 11.7 seconds, and the top speed was approximately 113 mph. The engine felt responsive enough for typical urban and highway driving, but overtaking maneuvers required careful planning. Compared to higher-output versions of the Grand C-MAX, such as those equipped with the 1.5 EcoBoost engine, the 1.6 Ti-VCT felt less powerful. However, it offered a smoother and more linear power delivery, making it easier to drive in congested traffic. The manual transmission allowed for greater driver engagement and control, but the gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency rather than outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 Ti-VCT 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 ABS brakes. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system with touchscreen display, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and automatic headlights and wipers. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. The Grand C-MAX offered a flexible seating configuration, with the second and third-row seats folding flat to maximize cargo space.
Chassis & Braking
The Grand C-MAX featured an independent front suspension with McPherson struts and a multi-link independent rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear wheels. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort and practicality, rather than sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 Ti-VCT Grand C-MAX was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical family vehicle. It was praised for its spacious interior, flexible seating configuration, and reasonable fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of more powerful alternatives. Compared to the diesel-powered Grand C-MAX models, the 1.6 Ti-VCT offered lower running costs in terms of fuel, but potentially higher maintenance costs due to the complexities of the Ti-VCT system. Against competitors like the Renault Grand Scenic and Citroën Grand C4 Picasso, the Grand C-MAX offered a more engaging driving experience, but potentially less interior space.
Legacy
The 1.6 Ti-VCT engine, while not known for being exceptionally durable, generally proved to be reliable with regular maintenance. Common issues included occasional problems with the variable valve timing system and potential for carbon buildup in the intake manifold. On the used car market, the 1.6 Ti-VCT Grand C-MAX represents a relatively affordable option for families seeking a spacious and practical MPV. Its fuel efficiency and reasonable running costs make it an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance issues associated with the Ti-VCT system and ensure that the vehicle has been properly serviced.
