The Ford S-MAX II 2.0 TDCi (180 hp) S&S, produced between 2015 and 2018, represents a significant iteration of Ford’s multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) offering. Positioned as a mid-range trim within the second-generation S-MAX lineup (introduced in 2015, internally designated as the 2015-2018 model year), this variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency, performance, and practicality for family-oriented buyers. It served as a key competitor to vehicles like the Volkswagen Sharan, Renault Espace, and Citroën Grand C4 Picasso in the European market, where MPVs remained popular. The “S&S” designation indicates the inclusion of Ford’s Start-Stop technology, designed to improve fuel economy in urban driving conditions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | S-MAX |
| Generation | S-MAX II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDCi (180 Hp) S&S |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 129 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 211 km/h (131.11 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.6 kg/Hp, 104.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 231.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 180 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 90.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 2000-2500 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 2000-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | T8CG, T8CH, T8CI, T8CJ |
| Engine displacement | 1997 cm3 (121.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.8 l (8.24 US qt | 6.86 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1726 kg (3805.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2535 kg (5588.72 lbs.) |
| Max load | 809 kg (1783.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 700 l (24.72 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2200 l (77.69 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 |
| Type of gearbox | 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 2.0 TDCi (180 hp) is the Ford Duratorq engine family, specifically the 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel. Engine codes such as T8CG, T8CH, T8CI, and T8CJ were used depending on the specific market and emissions regulations. 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 air intake, boosting power and torque. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, enhancing volumetric efficiency. The Start-Stop system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary (e.g., at traffic lights) and restarts it instantly when the driver releases the brake pedal, contributing to fuel savings. The 180 horsepower variant benefits from a revised turbocharger and engine management software compared to lower-powered versions of the 2.0 TDCi. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 TDCi (180 hp) S&S powertrain delivers a respectable level of performance for an MPV. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 9.2 seconds, and the vehicle has a top speed of 131 mph. While not a sports car, the engine provides sufficient torque (400 Nm or 295 lb-ft) for comfortable highway cruising and overtaking maneuvers. The six-speed manual transmission offers precise shifts, although the gear ratios are tuned more for fuel economy than outright acceleration. Compared to the lower-powered 120 hp or 150 hp versions of the 2.0 TDCi, the 180 hp variant feels noticeably more responsive, particularly when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. It doesn’t offer the same level of performance as the petrol-powered 2.3 EcoBoost S-MAX, but it provides a more economical alternative.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TDCi (180 hp) S&S trim typically included features such as air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels, such as Titanium, added features like leather upholstery, a more advanced infotainment system with navigation, parking sensors, and automatic climate control. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and a premium sound system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth on the base models, with leather options available on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and modern, with a focus on ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The S-MAX II utilizes an independent suspension system on both the front and rear axles. The front suspension employs McPherson struts with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension features an independent coil spring setup. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality and good handling characteristics. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The S-MAX’s chassis is designed to accommodate the vehicle’s weight and provide stability during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford S-MAX II 2.0 TDCi (180 hp) S&S was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the interior materials weren’t as premium as those found in some of its competitors. Compared to the lower-powered 2.0 TDCi variants, the 180 hp version offered a noticeable improvement in performance, making it a more appealing option for drivers who frequently carry passengers or travel long distances. Fuel economy was competitive, averaging around 47 US mpg on the combined cycle. Reliability reports suggest that the Duratorq engine is generally robust, although issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) can occur, particularly on vehicles used primarily for short trips.
Legacy
The Ford S-MAX II 2.0 TDCi (180 hp) S&S remains a popular choice in the used car market. Its combination of practicality, fuel efficiency, and reasonable performance makes it a compelling option for families. The Duratorq engine, while requiring regular maintenance (including DPF regeneration), is known for its durability. As with any used vehicle, potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle’s service history and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic. The S-MAX II represents a high point in Ford’s MPV offerings, providing a versatile and comfortable vehicle for a variety of needs.
