The Ford Grand C-MAX (facelift, introduced in April 2015 and produced through June 2019) represented a significant update to Ford’s compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) offering in the European market. This version, specifically the 2.0 TDCi 150 horsepower (hp) variant with Start/Stop technology and seven-seat configuration, aimed to balance fuel efficiency, practicality, and a reasonable level of performance for family transport. Positioned as a mid-range option within the Grand C-MAX lineup, it sat above the lower-powered diesel variants and below the more expensive trim levels with additional features. The facelift brought revised styling, updated technology, and refinements to the interior, enhancing the vehicle’s appeal in a competitive segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | C-MAX |
| Generation | Grand C-MAX (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDCi (150 Hp) 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) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 119 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 202 km/h (125.52 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp, 99.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 266.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 2000-2500 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 2000-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | T7DB, T7DC, T7DD |
| 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 | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.65 l (5.97 US qt | 4.97 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1502 kg (3311.34 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2300 kg (5070.63 lbs.) |
| Max load | 798 kg (1759.29 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%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 90 kg (198.42 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Grand C-MAX variant is the 2.0-liter TDCi diesel engine, belonging to the Ford Duratorq family. Engine codes T7DB, T7DC, and T7DD were used depending on the specific calibration and market. This engine utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to increase air intake, boosting power and torque. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and efficiency. The 16:1 compression ratio is typical for a diesel engine, contributing to its thermal efficiency. The Start/Stop system, denoted by the “S&S” in the model name, automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary (e.g., at traffic lights) to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels through a six-speed manual transmission.
Driving Characteristics
The 150 hp 2.0 TDCi engine, paired with the six-speed manual gearbox, provided a reasonable balance of performance and economy. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 9.3 seconds, and top speed was around 125 mph. While not a particularly sporty setup, it offered sufficient power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers, even when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. The engine’s peak torque of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) available from 2000-2500 rpm meant that strong pulling power was readily accessible across a wide rev range. Compared to the lower-powered 1.6 TDCi versions, this 2.0-liter engine felt significantly more responsive. However, it lacked the outright performance of the higher-output petrol engines available in the C-MAX range. The manual transmission offered precise shifts, and the gear ratios were well-chosen to maximize fuel efficiency and drivability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TDCi 150 hp S&S 7-Seat trim typically included features such as air conditioning, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, power windows, power mirrors, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, a more advanced infotainment system with touchscreen display, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and automatic climate control. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for leather upgrades. The seven-seat configuration offered flexibility for families, although the third-row seats were best suited for children or shorter journeys. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and various driver assistance technologies.
Chassis & Braking
The Grand C-MAX featured an independent front suspension using a McPherson strut setup with a coil spring and anti-roll bar. The rear suspension employed an independent multi-link system, also with a stabilizer bar. This configuration provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Front brakes were ventilated discs measuring 300x25mm, while rear brakes were solid discs measuring 280x11mm. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The chassis was tuned to prioritize ride comfort and stability, making it well-suited for long-distance family travel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Grand C-MAX 2.0 TDCi 150 hp S&S 7-Seat was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, practical seven-seat configuration, and fuel-efficient engine. The diesel engine offered a good compromise between performance and economy, making it an attractive option for those covering high mileages. Compared to rivals like the Volkswagen Touran and Citroën C4 Picasso, the Grand C-MAX was often seen as offering a more engaging driving experience. However, some critics noted that the interior design was not as modern or stylish as some competitors. Fuel economy figures of around 51.1 US mpg (combined) were competitive for its class.
Legacy
The 2.0 TDCi engine, in various iterations, proved to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While diesel engines, in general, have faced increased scrutiny regarding emissions, the Duratorq engine family has a solid reputation for longevity. The Grand C-MAX 2.0 TDCi remains a popular choice on the used car market, offering a practical and affordable option for families. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and filter replacements, is crucial to ensure the continued reliability of this powertrain. Potential buyers should be aware of the potential for diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues, particularly on vehicles that have primarily been used for short journeys.
