The Ford Galaxy III 2.0 EcoBlue (150 hp) AWD S&S 7 Seat, produced from 2018 to 2019, represents a significant iteration of Ford’s long-running people carrier. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Galaxy III lineup, this variant combined a fuel-efficient diesel engine with the practicality of all-wheel drive and seven-passenger seating. It was primarily marketed in Europe, catering to families and individuals requiring a spacious and versatile vehicle capable of handling diverse road conditions. The Galaxy III, built on the CD270 platform (shared with the Land Rover Discovery Sport), aimed to blend MPV functionality with a more sophisticated driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Galaxy |
| Generation | Galaxy III |
| Type | 2.0 EcoBlue (150 Hp) AWD S&S 7 Seat |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2-5.3 l/100 km (45.2 – 44.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.8-6.1 l/100 km (40.6 – 38.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 155-159 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Torque | 370 Nm @ 2000-2500 rpm (272.9 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | YMCB |
| Engine displacement | 1997 cm3 (121.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10.7 l (11.31 US qt | 9.41 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1738 kg (3831.63 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2655 kg (5853.27 lbs.) |
| Max load | 917 kg (2021.64 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 300 l (10.59 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2339 l (82.6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 4848 mm (190.87 in.) |
| Width | 1916 mm (75.43 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1953 mm (76.89 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2137 mm (84.13 in.) |
| Height | 1747 mm (68.78 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2849 mm (112.17 in.) |
| Front track | 1606 mm (63.23 in.) |
| Rear track | 1606 mm (63.23 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 124 mm (4.88 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12 m (39.37 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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 |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 235/55 R17; 235/50 R18; 245/45 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 7.5J x 18; 8J x 19 |
INTRODUCTION
The Ford Galaxy III 2.0 EcoBlue (150 hp) AWD S&S 7 Seat, launched in 2018 and continuing through 2019, is a member of the third generation of the Galaxy minivan. This generation, designated as the 1HX0/A3 platform, represented a move towards a more premium and refined MPV experience. The 2.0 EcoBlue engine, part of Ford’s Duratorq family, was a key component in offering a balance between fuel efficiency and adequate performance for family transport. The ‘S&S’ designation indicates the inclusion of Ford’s Auto-Start-Stop technology, further enhancing fuel economy. The all-wheel-drive system provided improved traction and stability, particularly beneficial in inclement weather conditions common in many European markets.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Galaxy variant lies the 2.0-liter EcoBlue diesel engine, specifically the YMCB engine code. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline configuration, utilizing a common-rail direct fuel injection system. The EcoBlue series engines were designed with a focus on reducing emissions and improving fuel economy through technologies like optimized combustion chambers and reduced internal friction. The YMCB engine produces 150 horsepower at 3500 rpm and 370 Nm (272.9 lb-ft) of torque between 2000 and 2500 rpm. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, delivering power to all four wheels. The all-wheel-drive system is a part-time system, typically operating in front-wheel drive under normal conditions and engaging the rear wheels when traction is lost.
Driving Characteristics
The 150 hp 2.0 EcoBlue engine, coupled with the six-speed manual transmission and all-wheel-drive system, delivers a competent, if not particularly exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 11.1 seconds. The engine provides adequate torque for everyday driving and comfortably handles a fully loaded vehicle. The manual transmission allows for greater driver control, but the gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency rather than outright performance. Compared to higher-output versions of the 2.0 EcoBlue or the larger 2.1-liter engine options, this variant feels less responsive. However, it offers a more economical and refined driving experience than the lower-powered 1.5 EcoBlue models. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced stability and grip, particularly on slippery surfaces, making it a reassuring choice for drivers in regions with challenging weather conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 EcoBlue AWD S&S 7 Seat trim typically included a generous level of standard equipment. Interior features generally included cloth upholstery, air conditioning, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and power windows/mirrors. Safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags were standard. Optional extras included features like leather upholstery, a more advanced infotainment system with navigation, parking sensors, a rearview camera, and a panoramic sunroof. The ‘S&S’ designation signifies the inclusion of Ford’s Auto-Start-Stop system, which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary to save fuel.
Chassis & Braking
The Galaxy III utilizes an independent suspension setup on both the front and rear axles. The front suspension employs a McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear features a multi-link setup, also with coil springs and a stabilizer bar. This suspension configuration provides a comfortable ride quality, even on uneven surfaces. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The chassis is designed to accommodate the weight of a full complement of passengers and luggage, while maintaining a reasonable level of handling agility.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Galaxy III 2.0 EcoBlue (150 hp) AWD S&S 7 Seat was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and versatile family vehicle. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the 150 hp engine could feel underpowered when the vehicle is fully loaded or traveling uphill. Compared to the 1.5 EcoBlue variants, this model offered a noticeable improvement in performance. Against the higher-powered 2.0 and 2.1-liter engine options, it represented a more affordable entry point into the Galaxy range, sacrificing some performance for improved fuel economy. Fuel economy figures of 5.8-6.1 l/100 km (40.6-38.6 US mpg) were competitive within the MPV segment.
Legacy
The 2.0 EcoBlue engine, in general, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, although, like any diesel engine, it requires regular maintenance, including oil changes and filter replacements. The particulate filter can be a potential point of failure if the vehicle is primarily used for short trips. The Galaxy III, as a whole, has maintained a reasonable level of reliability, with owners reporting few major issues. On the used car market, the 2.0 EcoBlue AWD S&S 7 Seat variant represents a good value proposition for families seeking a spacious, practical, and fuel-efficient MPV. Its all-wheel-drive capability adds an extra layer of versatility, making it a suitable choice for drivers in regions with challenging weather conditions.
