For an even more relaxed posture during long trips, the second-row seats feature a refined recline system with a lower pivot point. When reclining the backrest of the seat, the cushion will adjust by automatically inclining down. This gives a more natural resting position similar to a Business Class aircraft seat.

An optional Panorama Roof gives all occupants a view to the sky, and allows additional daylight into the vehicle interior.

Advanced ventilation and air-conditioning: A more powerful ventilation system has been adopted, which features more and larger ventilation openings. The new ventilation blower system has the capability to provide airflow of 135 litres per minute, an increase of 20 per cent compared with the original Galaxy. Additional B and C pillar ventilation openings not only improve interior comfort, but also increase demisting performance. This ensures quick and clear 360-degree visibility for a safer drive.

Air conditioning is standard equipment on all new Ford S-MAX models, and for maximum interior climate control, dual Electronic Automatic Temperature Control (EATC) is available. The EATC system features separate temperature controls for the driver, the front passenger and the second row passengers.

The interior is allergy tested and all materials used minimise the risk of allergenic reactions and meet strict standards based upon criteria set by an independent testing institute (TUV). It is anticipated that the new S-MAX will achieve full Allergy Tested certification later in 2006.


Human Machine Interface (HMI): An upgraded instrument cluster plus a new steering wheel including toggle switches for the Ford Human Machine Interface (HMI) take vehicle ergonomics to a new level.

With new S-MAX, Ford has taken a new approach to optimise and simplify the operation of vehicle controls and information management systems. Two sets of sophisticated steering wheel-mounted toggle switches in combination with an easy to read instrument cluster centre display form the basis for Ford's latest-generation HMI (Human Machine Interface).

HMI is standard on all Ford S-MAX and Galaxy models. It is simple and intuitive to operate. It follows strict, straightforward and logical rules and combines critical areas of ergonomic development to optimize the interaction of the driver with the comfort and entertainment systems.

It also provides the newly developed chime system. This categorizes each warning sound according to their purpose giving the driver greater control over the audio warnings that he receives.

Beyond standard features such as the common trip computer for fuel consumption and speed information, HMI allows the driver to select individual settings. The system enables a controlled dialogue between the driver and various support systems - radio, navigation system, cruise control, and mobile phone. The essential functions are shown in the instrument cluster for quick readability and easy operation. Some functions like clock setting and language selection for the display and cluster can also be operated from the steering wheel.

Outstanding interior versatility: In addition to the Ford FoldFlatSystem (FFS), several tie-down points are located across the floor and up the sides of the vehicle, helping secure items placed in the rear compartment.

When specified as a seven seater and with all seats raised in position, S-MAX offers a luggage volume of 285 litres. Without the third row of seats, Ford S-MAX oofer 854 litres of volume behind the seatbacks of the second row.

previous page | go to page 5