The Ford C-MAX II, particularly the 1.5 TDCi 120 horsepower variant with Start/Stop technology (S&S), represented a significant offering in the European compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) segment. Introduced with the 2015 facelift, this version of the C-MAX was produced through June 2019. Positioned as a mid-range option within the C-MAX lineup, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency, practicality, and a reasonable level of performance for family transport. The C-MAX II itself was built upon the Ford C-platform, shared with models like the Ford Focus, and was designed to compete with vehicles like the Volkswagen Touran, Opel Meriva, and Renault Scenic.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | C-MAX |
| Generation | C-MAX II (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 TDCi (120 Hp) 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) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.7 l/100 km (63.6 US mpg, 76.3 UK mpg, 27 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 105 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 184 km/h (114.33 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.1 kg/Hp, 90.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 203.3 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 | 1328 kg (2927.74 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1915 kg (4221.85 lbs.) |
| Max load | 587 kg (1294.11 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 | 700 kg (1543.24 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 | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| 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, specifically utilizing engine codes like XWDA, XWDB, XWDC, XWDD, and XWDE. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline configuration, featuring a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance power and efficiency. The engine employs a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the cylinders at high pressure for optimized combustion. A single overhead camshaft (SOHC) controls the two valves per cylinder. The 16:1 compression ratio is typical for diesel engines, contributing to their thermal efficiency. The Start/Stop system, denoted by the “S&S” designation, automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary (e.g., at traffic lights) to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. This engine was paired with a six-speed manual transmission, chosen for its balance of fuel economy and driver engagement.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 TDCi 120 hp engine, coupled with the six-speed manual gearbox, provided adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10.7 seconds, and top speed was approximately 114 mph. While not a particularly sporty setup, the engine delivered a respectable 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque between 1750-2500 rpm, providing good low-end grunt for overtaking and navigating urban environments. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine needed to be revved somewhat to access its full potential. Compared to higher-output versions of the C-MAX (like those with larger engines), this variant felt less eager to accelerate, but it offered significantly better fuel economy. The manual transmission allowed for greater driver control compared to an automatic, but also required more driver involvement.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 TDCi 120 hp S&S typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These generally included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels offered options such as alloy wheels, a more advanced infotainment system with touchscreen display, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and automatic headlights and wipers. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over outright luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The C-MAX II utilized an independent suspension setup, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link system at the rear. This configuration provided a comfortable ride quality and decent handling characteristics. Front brakes were ventilated discs, while rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.5 TDCi 120 hp variant of the Ford C-MAX II was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical choice. Its fuel economy figures of around 57.4 US mpg combined were a major selling point. Compared to the more powerful engine options, it offered a lower purchase price and reduced running costs. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to competitors like the Volkswagen Touran, the C-MAX offered a more engaging driving experience, but the Touran often had a reputation for slightly higher build quality.
Legacy
The 1.5 TDCi engine, in general, has proven to be a relatively reliable unit, although like all diesel engines, it can be susceptible to issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not driven on longer journeys regularly. The C-MAX II 1.5 TDCi 120 hp S&S remains a popular choice on the used car market, particularly for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and practical family vehicle. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, and parts availability is good. Its blend of practicality, economy, and affordability ensures its continued relevance in the used car landscape.
