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Engines and technology
Engines and technology
The S-MAX delivers an exhilarating drive via a range of refined, powerful, high-performance and fuel-efficient engines. There is a perfect engine and transmission package whatever your needs, from doing the school run to taking a drive in the countryside with friends.

Because this is an overview of the Ford S-MAX, some features mentioned below may be standard across the range whilst others may be optional extras or available only on selected models. Please refer to the full Features and specifications for specific details or contact your Ford Dealer. You can also use our configurator tool to build your perfect Ford S-MAX.

Diesel engines
Our diesel engines range from the 1.8-litre Duratorq TDCi (125 PS) and culminate in the awesome 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi (175 PS) – currently the largest and most powerful diesel engine available in any of our cars. Transient overboost is available on the 2.0 TDCi and 2.2 TDCi diesel engines giving the extra power needed when overtaking.
Petrol engines
If you prefer petrol, we have a superb range from a 2.0-litre Duratec (145 PS) right up to the mighty 2.5-litre Duratec (220 PS).
Alternative fuel
Then there are our Flexifuel engines, which offer a substantial reduction in CO2 emissions by running on bioethanol E85 or normal unleaded petrol – or any mixture of the two.
Transmissions
The S-MAX comes with five or six-speed manual gearboxes, or a six-speed automatic. This advanced automatic transmission measures engine load and road speed electronically, deciding on the right time to change gear, and ensuring the shifting is smooth and flexible.
Automatic transmission
Some people want the hands on feel of a manual transmission but appreciate the convenience of automatic transmission. This is why six-speed Durashift is available with ‘Sportsmode’ on both petrol and diesel models.
Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with Traction Assist (TA) and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA)
ESP with TA monitors the rotation of the wheels, as well as the steering wheel angle, yaw angle and sideways movement. If the sensors detect either the front or rear tyres slipping, the onboard computer modifies the engine power and applies the brakes to individual wheels. This keeps them under control and helps keep the vehicle stable. EBA is there to ensure full braking force is available whenever necessary, helping reduce stopping distances in an emergency. To alert other drivers if you do have to brake heavily, the hazard warning lights automatically come on.
Driving quality
Interactive Vehicle Dynamics Control (IVDC) with Continuous Controlled Damping (CCD) guarantees stability and efficient braking. Each damper is adjusted five times per second for a smoother, more comfortable ride. You can also select different suspension settings from a range of sport, normal and comfort modes to suit your individual driving style.
Active safety features
S-MAX’s active safety features help provide the safest possible environment for you and your passengers. These features include: Anti-lock braking system (ABS) to help prevent skidding with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) for more stable braking. Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with Traction Assist (TA) monitors the rotation of the wheels, as well as the steering wheel angle, yaw angle and sideways movement. If the sensors detect either the front or rear tyres slipping, the onboard computer modifies the engine power and applies the brakes to individual wheels. This keeps them under control and helps keep the vehicle stable.
 
Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) is there to ensure full braking force is available whenever necessary, helping reduce stopping distances in an emergency. To alert other drivers if you do have to brake heavily, the hazard warning lights automatically come on.
 
Tyre Pressure Monitoring  with individual wheel sensors that check the tyre pressure, provide accurate pressure data and alert you before any loss of pressure becomes an issue. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Forward Alert (FA). With ACC you can automatically keep your chosen distance from the car in front. Should the car in front slow down and reduce the gap, your speed drops too. And when traffic speeds up, you automatically return to cruising speed. Meanwhile, FA monitors your distance to the vehicle in front. If you drive too close, a warning noise and flashing light activate.
 
Hill Start Assist (HSA). This prevents you from rolling backwards when making a hill start. After releasing the brake pedal when stationary, HSA keeps the wheels braked, leaving you enough time to move your foot from the brake pedal to the accelerator without the car moving.
S-MAX highlights
The muscular and energetic styling captures our energy in motion philosophy.
The car’s interior boasts premium levels of craftsmanship.
Euro NCAP rating
The S-MAX outperforms every other car in its class for safety, according to Euro NCAP.
Find out what powers the S-MAX’s sports-like handling.
A wealth of versatile innovations make the
S-MAX ideal for work or play.
Technology designed to make driving easier and safer, whatever the conditions.
Optional lights that swivel with the wheels to better illuminate winding roads. Includes static cornering lights for improved illumination when turning.
Optional headlights that provide brighter and clearer illumination.
Folding second and third row seats - second row seats give extra flexibility by being able to tilt and adjust forwards and backwards.
Bluetooth logo
Use your voice to control different entertainment and information systems, as well as making hands-free phone calls from your mobile phone.
Effortless control of the car’s entertainment and communication systems.
Technology that lets you continue to drive safely for a while with a flat tyre.
Let the S-MAX take care of the wipers and lights. They spring into action automatically to ensure your driving safety and convenience.