The Ford C-MAX II, particularly the 1.5 TDCi 120 horsepower variant with the PowerShift automatic transmission and Start/Stop system (S&S), represents a significant iteration in Ford’s compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) lineup. Introduced with the 2015 facelift, this version of the C-MAX was primarily aimed at the European market, offering a blend of fuel efficiency, practicality, and modern technology. Production continued through June 2019. This specific engine and transmission combination occupied a mid-range position within the C-MAX II lineup, offering a balance between affordability and performance compared to the more powerful gasoline engines or higher-output diesel options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | C-MAX |
| Generation | C-MAX II (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 TDCi (120 Hp) PowerShift S&S |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | June, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 115 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 182 km/h (113.09 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp, 85.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 193.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | XWDA, XWDB, XWDC, XWDD, XWDE |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73.5 mm (2.89 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.85 l (4.07 US qt | 3.39 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.3 l (7.71 US qt | 6.42 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1397 kg (3079.86 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Max load | 603 kg (1329.39 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 432 l (15.26 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1684 l (59.47 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 735 kg (1620.4 lbs.) |
| Length | 4379 mm (172.4 in.) |
| Width | 1828 mm (71.97 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1858 mm (73.15 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2067 mm (81.38 in.) |
| Height | 1610 mm (63.39 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2648 mm (104.25 in.) |
| Front track | 1543-1557 mm (60.75 – 61.3 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1554-1569 mm (61.18 – 61.77 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.1 m (36.42 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission PowerShift |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 278×25 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 280×11 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 215/55 R16; 215/50 R17; 235/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 16; 7J x 17; 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C-MAX variant is the 1.5-liter TDCi diesel engine, belonging to the Ford EcoBoost engine family. Specifically, engine codes XWDA, XWDB, XWDC, XWDD, and XWDE were used. This engine utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to increase power output and improve efficiency. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The 16:1 compression ratio is typical for diesel engines, contributing to their thermal efficiency. The PowerShift six-speed automatic transmission is a dual-clutch transmission (DCT), offering quicker and smoother gear changes compared to traditional automatic transmissions. The Start/Stop system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary (e.g., at traffic lights) to further reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 TDCi 120 hp PowerShift combination delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 11.8 seconds, and the top speed is 113 mph. While not particularly sporty, the engine provides sufficient torque (199 lb-ft) from 1750-2500 rpm, making it suitable for overtaking and highway cruising. The PowerShift transmission contributes to a more engaging driving experience than a conventional automatic, with quick shifts and minimal torque interruption. Compared to the higher-output 1.5 TDCi (150 hp) or the gasoline engines, this variant feels less powerful, but it offers superior fuel economy. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, prioritizing fuel savings over outright acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 TDCi 120 hp PowerShift typically came equipped with features such as air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels added features like automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers, a more advanced infotainment system with touchscreen display, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. Safety features included ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags.
Chassis & Braking
The C-MAX II utilizes an independent front suspension with McPherson struts and a coil spring, coupled with an independent multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Front brakes are ventilated discs, while rear brakes are solid discs. The electric power steering offers light and precise steering feel. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.5 TDCi 120 hp PowerShift C-MAX was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency and practicality. It was considered a good option for drivers prioritizing economy and comfort over performance. Compared to the 1.0 EcoBoost gasoline engine, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy, but at the cost of some refinement. The 1.5 TDCi 150 hp variant provided more power but was more expensive and slightly less fuel-efficient. Reliability reports suggest that the PowerShift transmission, while generally good, could experience issues in some cases, requiring careful maintenance.
Legacy
The Ford C-MAX II 1.5 TDCi 120 hp PowerShift remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for those seeking a fuel-efficient and practical MPV. The 1.5 TDCi engine is generally considered reliable, although regular maintenance is crucial. The PowerShift transmission requires careful servicing, including fluid changes, to ensure longevity. Overall, this variant represents a well-rounded package that offers a good balance of economy, practicality, and comfort.
