The Ford Grand C-MAX (facelift, introduced in April 2015 and produced through June 2019) represented Ford’s offering in the compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) segment, specifically targeting European families needing flexible seating and cargo configurations. The 1.5 TDCi 120 horsepower variant, equipped with a six-speed manual transmission and seven-seat configuration, occupied a middle ground within the Grand C-MAX lineup, balancing fuel efficiency with adequate performance for everyday driving. This model aimed to provide a practical and economical option for buyers who didn’t require the higher performance of the petrol engines or the more expensive trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | C-MAX |
| Generation | Grand C-MAX (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 TDCi (120 Hp) 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) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 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) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 118 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 | 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 | 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, built upon the success of the original C-MAX and Grand C-MAX models, offering increased practicality and a more refined driving experience. The 1.5 TDCi 120 hp variant with seven seats was a key component of the range, designed to appeal to families seeking a versatile and fuel-efficient vehicle. Positioned as a mid-range option, it offered a balance between affordability and features, slotting below the more powerful petrol engines and higher trim levels. This generation of C-MAX utilized Ford’s global C-car platform (C240), also underpinning models like the Focus, allowing for economies of scale and shared components.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Grand C-MAX variant is the 1.5-liter Duratorq TDCi diesel engine, specifically utilizing engine codes like XWDA, XWDB, XWDC, XWDD, and XWDE depending on the specific market and emissions regulations. 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 single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operates 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 grunt for everyday driving. The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, chosen for its efficiency and driver engagement. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned to maximize fuel economy and provide adequate acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 TDCi 120 hp Grand C-MAX offers a comfortable and practical driving experience, prioritizing fuel efficiency over outright performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 11.7 seconds, and 0-100 km/h in 12.3 seconds, which is adequate for most daily driving situations but won’t provide exhilarating performance. The engine’s strong low-end torque makes it easy to navigate urban environments and provides sufficient power for overtaking on the highway. Compared to the higher-output petrol versions, the diesel offers significantly better fuel economy, but lacks the same level of responsiveness. The six-speed manual transmission allows for precise gear selection, and the gear ratios are well-matched to the engine’s power delivery. The Grand C-MAX’s suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively, although this can result in some body roll during cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 TDCi 120 hp 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 more advanced infotainment system with touchscreen display, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and upgraded interior upholstery. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, leather seats, and a navigation system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with higher trims offering partial leather options. The dashboard layout was functional and user-friendly, with logically placed controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Grand C-MAX utilizes an independent front suspension with McPherson struts and a coil spring and anti-roll bar, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling. The rear suspension features an independent multi-link setup, also with a stabilizer bar, further enhancing ride quality and stability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on the front wheels (300x25mm) and solid discs on the rear wheels (280x11mm). Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, providing enhanced braking performance and control. The steering is electrically assisted, offering a light and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Grand C-MAX 1.5 TDCi 120 hp was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical family vehicle. Its fuel economy of around 51.1 US mpg combined was a major selling point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Compared to the 1.0 EcoBoost petrol version, the diesel offered superior fuel economy and torque, but lacked the same level of refinement and responsiveness. The 1.5 TDCi was also seen as a more sensible choice than the higher-powered diesel variants for those who didn’t require the extra performance. Reliability reports suggest that the 1.5 TDCi engine is generally reliable, although potential owners should be aware of the possibility of diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues, particularly if the vehicle is primarily used for short journeys.
Legacy
The Ford Grand C-MAX 1.5 TDCi 120 hp remains a popular choice in the used car market, offering a compelling combination of practicality, fuel efficiency, and affordability. The Duratorq diesel engine has proven to be relatively durable, and parts availability is generally good. However, potential buyers should ensure that the vehicle has been properly maintained, with regular servicing and attention paid to the DPF system. The Grand C-MAX’s versatile interior and seven-seat configuration continue to appeal to families, making it a practical and sensible used car option.
