The Ford Grand C-MAX (facelift, introduced in April 2015 and produced through June 2019) 1.5 TDCi 120 horsepower variant with the PowerShift automatic transmission and seven-seat configuration represented a key offering in Ford’s European compact MPV lineup. Positioned as a mid-range option, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability for families. This version of the Grand C-MAX was primarily marketed in Europe, where the demand for multi-purpose vehicles remained strong. It slotted between the lower-powered 1.0 EcoBoost models and the higher-specification trims with more powerful engines.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | C-MAX |
| Generation | Grand C-MAX (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 TDCi (120 Hp) PowerShift S&S 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) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 124 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 178 km/h (110.6 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.1 kg/Hp, 82.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 185.3 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 | 1457 kg (3212.14 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2250 kg (4960.4 lbs.) |
| Max load | 793 kg (1748.27 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 | Automatic transmission PowerShift |
| 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The Ford Grand C-MAX facelift, launched in 2015, represented a significant refresh of the original Grand C-MAX introduced in 2010. Built on the Ford C-platform (also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform), the Grand C-MAX aimed to provide a spacious and versatile MPV option for European families. The 1.5 TDCi 120 PS PowerShift variant was a popular choice, offering a balance between fuel economy and acceptable performance. The facelift brought styling updates, improved interior materials, and enhanced technology features, solidifying its position in a competitive segment. The seven-seat configuration was a key selling point, making it suitable for larger families or those requiring occasional extra passenger capacity.
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 boost 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. The 120 horsepower output is achieved at 3600 rpm, while peak torque of 270 Nm (199.14 lb.-ft.) is available between 1750 and 2500 rpm. This broad torque curve contributes to good drivability in everyday conditions. Paired with the engine is Ford’s six-speed PowerShift dual-clutch transmission (DCT). This transmission offers quicker and smoother gear changes compared to a traditional automatic, and contributes to improved fuel economy. The PowerShift utilizes two separate clutches, one for odd gears and one for even gears, allowing for pre-selection of the next gear for seamless shifts.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 TDCi 120 PS PowerShift Grand C-MAX delivers a comfortable and practical driving experience. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes around 13.4 seconds, which is adequate for everyday driving but doesn’t offer particularly sporty performance. The PowerShift transmission generally provides smooth gear changes, although some drivers have reported occasional hesitation at low speeds. The engine’s strong low-end torque makes it well-suited for urban driving and overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the higher-powered 1.6 TDCi or 2.0 TDCi variants, this 1.5L engine offers less outright performance, but it compensates with improved fuel economy. The gear ratios in the PowerShift transmission are tuned for efficiency, prioritizing fuel savings over rapid acceleration. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Overall, the driving experience is geared towards comfort and practicality rather than outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 TDCi 120 PS PowerShift 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, such as Titanium, added features like alloy wheels, automatic headlights and wipers, a more advanced infotainment system with touchscreen display, and parking sensors. Optional extras included navigation system, panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and a rear-view camera. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with higher trims offering partial leather options. The dashboard layout was functional and user-friendly, with a focus on ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The Grand C-MAX utilizes an independent front suspension with McPherson struts and a coil spring and anti-roll bar setup. The rear suspension employs an independent multi-link system, also with a stabilizer bar. This suspension configuration provides a comfortable ride quality and good handling characteristics. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on the front wheels (300x25mm) and solid discs on the rear wheels (280x11mm). ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced braking performance and stability. The chassis is designed to accommodate the seven-seat configuration and provide a stable platform for carrying passengers and luggage.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Grand C-MAX 1.5 TDCi 120 PS PowerShift received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, versatile seating configuration, and good fuel economy. However, some critics noted that the PowerShift transmission could be occasionally jerky, and the engine lacked the punch of more powerful alternatives. Compared to rivals like the Renault Grand Scenic and Citroën Grand C4 Picasso, the Grand C-MAX offered a more driver-focused experience and a slightly more compact footprint. Fuel economy figures of around 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg) were competitive in its class. Reliability reports suggest that the 1.5 TDCi engine is generally reliable, although the PowerShift transmission has been known to experience issues in some cases, requiring careful maintenance and fluid changes.
Legacy
The Ford Grand C-MAX 1.5 TDCi 120 PS PowerShift remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for families seeking a practical and affordable MPV. The 1.5 TDCi engine has proven to be relatively durable, but the PowerShift transmission requires diligent maintenance to avoid potential problems. Regular fluid changes and careful driving habits are essential to ensure its longevity. While newer MPV models offer more advanced technology and features, the Grand C-MAX continues to provide a compelling combination of space, practicality, and fuel efficiency, making it a viable option for budget-conscious buyers.
