Insurance Group: N/A
MPG: 47.1
CO2: 139
0-62 Mph: 13.8 secs
BHP: 89 BHP
Range: 497 miles
PROS: The Zetec level of trim offers a decent balance between equipment and price, the car is easy to drive, and the innovative B-pillar-less bodyshell makes entry and egress a doddle.
CONS: The 1.4-litre engine is neither the most sprightly nor the most economical engine in the range, and refinement could be better.
The 1.4 litre petrol engine is a willing worker and although you do need to work it quite hard through the mid range it generally performs reasonably for a car of this size, offering acceleration from 0-62mph in an adequate 13.8 seconds. The top speed of 106mph is also perfectly sufficient. The suspension is actually set quite firm which is an unusual feature in a car like this, with the slightly rough ride helping to keep the body from rolling too much while cornering.
The interior of the cabin is spacious, and this means that even larger drivers should be able to find a comfortable driving position, with the seat and steering wheel fully adjustable. Visibility in the car is generally good, with the wide front windscreen offering a good view over the road ahead.
While an MPV will never be the most attractive car on the road, the B-MAX does try to turn the boxy shape of the vehicle into something fairly attractive, with large headlight and tail-light clusters. The Zetec level of trim comes with alloy wheels which makes a big difference to the overall look of the car, while the large front grille is a typical feature on Ford vehicles.
The Zetec level of trim is one step above the basic model, and means that as well as the alloy wheels, the car also enjoys air conditioning, heated electric mirrors and front fog lights. The security equipment is all present, but it is worth noting that an alarm is only an optional extra in this model.
The B-MAX is one of the most practical cars in the Ford range, with the rear doors opening the opposite way to most standard cars with the hinges at the back, offering better access to the rear seats for those with children. The boot is also a well-sized space that can be supplemented by folding one or all of the rear seats down when you have a larger load to carry.
The car has achieved five stars in the Euro NCAP safety tests, and the usual range of airbags including a curtain airbag to look after those in the back of the car. Ford's reliability record seems to be fairly average based on the reviews provided in annual driver surveys, although the B-MAX is based on the well established Fiesta range.
This version of the Ford B-MAX is one of the most attractive options for the majority of drivers as it combines the lower price that comes with the 1.4 litre petrol engine with a reasonable level of trim, at a list price of £15,595. Ford dealers are also known for having flexibility when it comes to their pricing, so don't be afraid to haggle hard to try and get the best deal.
The running costs of this version aren't as attractive as some of the more expensive ultra-efficient models, with the 1.4-litre petrol engine delivering an combined 47.1mpg. The low insurance group means it shouldn't be too expensive to insure, while the mid-range spec does seem to hold its value better than the top-end trim levels. The car is delivered with a three year or sixty thousand mile warranty and a one-year roadside breakdown assistance policy.
The Ford B-MAX is a very interesting vehicle which features several innovative design features, with the distinctive rear doors offering good access to the back seats, and the high-sided body shape...
As a car there is no doubt that the B-MAX is a very practical and versatile vehicle, with plenty of space in the cabin and plenty of innovative design touches that help to make the most of the spac...
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