The Ford S-MAX II 1.5 EcoBoost (160 hp) S&S 7-Seat, produced from 2015 to 2018, represents a key variant within the second generation of Ford’s popular multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). Positioned as a mid-range offering, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency with adequate performance for family transport. This model was primarily marketed in Europe, where the demand for spacious, versatile vehicles remained strong. It built upon the foundation of the first-generation S-MAX, known for its sporty handling and practical interior, while incorporating Ford’s latest EcoBoost engine technology and safety features. The S-MAX II, and this variant specifically, competed with vehicles like the Volkswagen Touran, Renault Espace, and Citroën Grand C4 Picasso.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | S-MAX |
| Generation | S-MAX II |
| Type | 1.5 EcoBoost (160 Hp) S&S 7 Seat |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 149 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5b |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp, 97.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm, 145.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 106.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1500-4500 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | UNCI, UNCJ, UNCK |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.02 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 76.4 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.7 l (11.31 US qt | 9.41 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1645 kg (3626.6 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2450 kg (5401.33 lbs.) |
| Max load | 805 kg (1774.72 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 285 l (10.06 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2020 l (71.34 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4796 mm (188.82 in.) |
| Width | 1916 mm (75.43 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2137 mm (84.13 in.) |
| Height | 1655 mm (65.16 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2849 mm (112.17 in.) |
| Front track | 1606 mm (63.23 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1606 mm (63.23 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 128-150 mm (5.04 – 5.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12 m (39.37 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 235/55 R17; 235/50 R18; 245/45 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 7.5J x 18; 8J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S-MAX II 1.5 EcoBoost is the UNCI, UNCJ, or UNCK engine code, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Ford’s EcoBoost family, characterized by turbocharging and direct fuel injection. The direct injection system, operating at pressures up to 200 bar, ensures precise fuel delivery for improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine utilizes a single scroll turbocharger with an integrated intercooler to enhance power output. The valvetrain is a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for increased performance. The engine’s Start & Stop system, denoted by the “S&S” in the model name, automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary to conserve fuel. This variant was exclusively offered with a six-speed manual transmission, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 160 hp 1.5 EcoBoost engine, coupled with the six-speed manual gearbox, provided a reasonable driving experience for the S-MAX II. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 9.4 seconds, and top speed was limited to 124.27 mph. While not particularly sporty, the engine delivered adequate torque (240 Nm) from 1500-4500 rpm, making it suitable for everyday driving and carrying a full load of passengers. Compared to the higher-output 2.0-liter EcoBoost variants, this engine felt less responsive, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. The manual transmission offered greater driver control than the optional automatic, but required more driver involvement. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, resulting in a slightly less engaging driving experience than the more performance-oriented trims.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 EcoBoost S&S 7-Seat trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and alloy wheels. Safety features included ABS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels, available as options, added features like leather upholstery, a more advanced infotainment system with navigation, parking sensors, a rearview camera, and automatic climate control. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with optional leather upgrades available. The dashboard layout was functional and user-friendly, with a focus on practicality rather than luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The S-MAX II utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The steering system was a rack and pinion type, providing precise and responsive steering feel. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort and practicality, rather than outright sportiness.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S-MAX II 1.5 EcoBoost was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient family vehicle. However, some reviewers noted that the 160 hp engine felt underpowered when the vehicle was fully loaded. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined figures around 36.2 US mpg. Compared to the 2.0-liter EcoBoost variants, this trim offered lower running costs but sacrificed performance. The 1.5 EcoBoost was often seen as a good compromise for buyers who prioritized fuel efficiency and practicality over outright speed. Reliability reports suggest that the 1.5 EcoBoost engine is generally reliable, although some owners have reported issues with the turbocharger and direct injection system.
Legacy
The Ford S-MAX II 1.5 EcoBoost (160 hp) S&S 7-Seat remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for families seeking a spacious and versatile vehicle. The engine’s relatively simple design and proven reliability contribute to its continued appeal. While newer MPVs offer more advanced technology and features, the S-MAX II provides a good balance of practicality, affordability, and fuel efficiency. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, and parts availability is good. The S-MAX II, and this variant specifically, helped solidify Ford’s reputation for producing well-rounded and practical family vehicles in the European market.
