Ford in Ireland has launched a new version of the C-MAX and Grand C-MAX, with claims of more modern and active families advanced driver assistance technologies, convenience features, and higher levels of comfort and safety. Prices have increased very marginally, starting at €25,755 for the five seat Zetec 1.0 EcoBoost Turbo petrol version, while diesel prices start at €26,500 for the 1.5 litre TDCi 95bhp version.

The new five-seat C-MAX and seven-seat Grand C-MAX multi-activity vehicles (MAV) have a revised chassis, body and interior designs. The C-MAX family also offers segment-first Hands-Free Tailgate that enables customers to access the boot with a simple kicking motion. The cars come with a new version of the Ford Active City Stop system designed to help avoid or mitigate incidents.

Ford claims that the new C-MAX and Grand C-MAX will have lower running costs with improved fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions. Ford has downsized the engine options to include Ford’s new 1.5-litre TDCi diesel engine. This engine is rated at either 95bhp or 120bhp, both of which deliver 105g/km CO2. Ford claims that this is a 12% improvement in CO2 compared to the 1.6-litre diesel it replaces, while delivering 5bhp more power.

Ford’s 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine will be available in the new C-MAX delivering 100bhp and 125bhp.

Auto-Start-Stop technology is offered on C-MAX as standard on EcoBoost petrol and 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engines for the first time. Ford claims that this will deliver up to 17% reduction in CO2 emissions, with power increased by 7%.

Ford claims that the new C-MAX family comes with stiffer suspension bushes and retuned dampers to give a better driving experience and more comfort. Ford claims that the Electronic Power Assisted Steering has been re-tuned for greater steering precision and stability.

The car is available in Zetec and Titanium specification. The entry level Zetec models come with 16” alloys, front fogs lights, Quickclear windscreen, SYNC 1, air-conditioning, privacy glass, leather steering wheel, driver seat lumbar adjust, MyKey, and electric power front windows. The larger Grand C-MAX Zetec gets rear parking sensors, power folding mirrors and a third row of seats.