The Ford Galaxy III 2.0 EcoBlue (150 Hp) S&S represents a significant iteration in Ford’s long-running minivan line, produced from 2018 to 2019. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Galaxy III generation (introduced in 2015, based on the CD270 platform shared with the Ford S-Max and Land Rover Discovery Sport), this variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency, practicality, and a reasonable level of performance for family transport. The “EcoBlue” designation signifies Ford’s advanced diesel engine technology, and the “S&S” indicates the inclusion of a Start-Stop system designed to improve fuel economy in urban driving conditions. This model was primarily marketed in Europe, where large MPVs remained popular due to their versatility and passenger-carrying capacity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Galaxy |
| Generation | Galaxy III |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 EcoBlue (150 Hp) S&S |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.0-6.2 l/100 km (39.2 – 37.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6-4.8 l/100 km (51.1 – 49 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.1-5.7 l/100 km (46.1 – 41.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 133-147 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 194 km/h (120.55 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Torque | 370 Nm @ 2000-2500 rpm (272.9 lb.-ft. @ 2000-2500 rpm) |
| 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 | 10.7 l (11.31 US qt | 9.41 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1677 kg (3697.15 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2595 kg (5721 lbs.) |
| Max load | 918 kg (2023.84 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 (Back) 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 | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, 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 |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Galaxy III 2.0 EcoBlue (150 Hp) S&S is the YMCB engine, a 1997cc inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine belongs to Ford’s EcoBlue family, characterized by advanced combustion technology aimed at reducing emissions and improving fuel efficiency. Key features include a high-pressure fuel injection system (Commonrail), a variable geometry turbocharger, and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR). The engine utilizes a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing gas flow for improved performance. The 17:1 compression ratio is typical for modern diesel engines, contributing to efficient combustion. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The six-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a balance between fuel economy and driver control. While an automatic transmission was available on other Galaxy III trims, it wasn’t typically paired with this specific 150 horsepower engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 150 horsepower EcoBlue engine, coupled with the six-speed manual gearbox, delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 10.2 seconds, which is respectable for a large minivan. The engine’s 370 Nm (272.9 lb-ft) of torque, available from 2000-2500 rpm, provides good pulling power for overtaking and carrying a full load of passengers and luggage. However, compared to higher-output versions of the 2.0 EcoBlue (such as the 185 hp variant) or the earlier 2.2-liter TDCi engines, this version feels less responsive. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency rather than outright performance, meaning the engine needs to be revved slightly to maintain speed on inclines. The manual transmission allows for greater driver control, but it lacks the convenience of an automatic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 EcoBlue (150 Hp) S&S typically represented a mid-level trim in the Galaxy III lineup. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, a basic infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, alloy wheels, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels, like Titanium and Vignale, added features such as leather upholstery, a more advanced infotainment system with navigation, parking sensors, and a panoramic sunroof. Optional extras for the 150 hp model included metallic paint, upgraded audio systems, and various driver assistance technologies.
Chassis & Braking
The Galaxy III utilizes an independent suspension setup on both the front and rear axles. The front suspension employs McPherson struts with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear features a multi-link setup, also with a stabilizer bar. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality and good handling characteristics for a vehicle of its size. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering system is a rack and pinion type, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Galaxy III 2.0 EcoBlue (150 Hp) S&S was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and fuel-efficient family vehicle. However, some reviewers noted that the 150 hp engine felt underpowered when the vehicle was fully loaded. Compared to the more powerful 185 hp EcoBlue variant, the 150 hp model offered slightly better fuel economy but at the expense of performance. The 2.2-liter TDCi engines available in earlier Galaxy models provided similar performance but were generally less fuel-efficient and didn’t meet the latest emissions standards. The Galaxy consistently competed with other large MPVs such as the Volkswagen Sharan, SEAT Alhambra, and Citroën C4 Picasso.
Legacy
The Ford Galaxy III 2.0 EcoBlue (150 Hp) S&S has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The EcoBlue engine is generally robust, although regular maintenance is crucial to prevent issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and fuel injection system. The manual transmission is known for its durability. Today, these Galaxies represent a good value proposition for families seeking a spacious and practical vehicle. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential costs associated with maintaining a diesel vehicle, including DPF regeneration and AdBlue refills. The Galaxy III remains a popular choice for those needing a versatile and comfortable MPV.
