Frankfurt news: Ford C-MAX
Ford is staying in tune with the current climate and keeping its feet on the ground with the launch of its new C-MAX people carrier. As well as being an all-new model - and the first to use the next generation Focus chassis - the other big news for the C-MAX is that the next version will be available as a seven-seater.
What's all the fuss about?
People carriers are big sellers, so Ford's new C-MAX is a key car in the Blue Oval's range, especially as the next C-MAX will be sold in the USA as well as the rest of the world. The C-MAX will provide much more competition to the likes of the Renault Scenic and Vauxhall Zafira now there's a seven seater in the range, which is distinct from the five seater thanks to sliding rear doors to ease access to the third row of chairs.
Anything that stands out?
As well as the seven-seat model with its sliding rear doors, the big news with the launch of the C-MAX is its new 1.6-litre Ecoboost engine that will be used across a wide range of Ford models. This turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol engine uses direct injection to allow better control of the fuel flow. Ford says this results in an engine that is more powerful, easier on fuel and reduces carbon dioxide emissions by up to 20 percent. There will also be revised versions of Ford's TDCi turbodiesel engine that are cleaner and leaner.
When can I buy one?
It will be towards the end of 2010 by the time the Ford C-MAX is on sale in the UK. Ford is being very cautious about pricing at present, but expect the new five-door model to cost a little more than the current version and the seven-seat variant to add around £1,500 to the final bill.
Frankfurt news: Ford C-MAX pictures
