The Ford Grand C-MAX 1.6 TDCi (115 hp) represents a significant offering within the second generation of the C-MAX compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) line, specifically the facelifted version introduced in 2015. Positioned as a practical and fuel-efficient option, this variant catered to families and individuals seeking a versatile vehicle with reasonable running costs. Production of this specific configuration ran from 2015 to 2019, falling within the broader lifespan of the second-generation C-MAX, which utilized the Ford C2 platform. The Grand C-MAX, distinguished by its seven-seat configuration, aimed to provide increased passenger capacity compared to the standard five-seat C-MAX.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | C-MAX |
| Generation | Grand C-MAX (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDCi (115 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 129 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 | 12.4 kg/Hp, 80.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 kg/Nm, 150.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 73.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 215 Nm @ 1750 rpm (158.58 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | T1DA, T1DB |
| Engine displacement | 1560 cm3 (95.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 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 | DOHC |
| 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 | 1429 kg (3150.41 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Max load | 771 kg (1699.76 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%) | 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 | 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Grand C-MAX 1.6 TDCi is the Duratorq 1.6-liter inline-four diesel engine, specifically the T1DA or T1DB variant. This engine is a common-rail direct injection diesel, utilizing piezo injectors for precise fuel delivery. The engine benefits from a turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power output to 115 horsepower at 3800 rpm and 215 Nm (158.58 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. The high compression ratio of 16:1 is typical for diesel engines, contributing to efficiency. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The six-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a balance between fuel economy and drivability.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 TDCi engine, paired with the six-speed manual gearbox, delivered adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 11.7 seconds, and top speed was around 111.85 mph. While not a particularly sporty setup, the engine provided sufficient torque for comfortable cruising and overtaking maneuvers. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine needed to be revved somewhat to access its full power. Compared to higher-output versions of the C-MAX, such as those with the 2.0-liter TDCi engine, this variant felt less responsive, particularly when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. However, the lower power output also translated to improved fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Grand C-MAX 1.6 TDCi 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, rear parking sensors, a larger touchscreen infotainment system, and upgraded interior upholstery. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and various driver assistance technologies. Interior materials were generally durable and practical, reflecting the vehicle’s family-oriented focus.
Chassis & Braking
The Grand C-MAX featured independent suspension all around, with a McPherson strut setup at the front and a multi-link system at the rear. This configuration provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. Front brakes were ventilated discs, while rear brakes were solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort over sporty handling, resulting in a slight degree of body roll during cornering. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll and improve stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Grand C-MAX 1.6 TDCi was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient MPV. It was praised for its spacious interior, versatile seating configuration, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the 1.6-liter engine could feel underpowered, especially when the vehicle was fully loaded. Compared to other MPVs in its class, such as the Volkswagen Touran and Citroën C4 Picasso, the Grand C-MAX offered a competitive combination of price, practicality, and fuel economy. The 1.6 TDCi variant was often seen as the entry-level option, appealing to budget-conscious buyers.
Legacy
The Duratorq 1.6 TDCi engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not driven on longer journeys regularly. Proper maintenance, including regular oil changes and DPF regeneration, is crucial for ensuring the longevity of this powertrain. In the used car market, the Grand C-MAX 1.6 TDCi remains a popular choice for families seeking an affordable and practical MPV. Its fuel efficiency and relatively low running costs continue to make it an attractive option, although potential buyers should be aware of the potential DPF issues and ensure the vehicle has been well-maintained.
