The 2026 Ford S-Max is set to revolutionize the minivan segment with its sleek design, advanced technology, and impressive performance. As the successor to the highly successful S-Max, this latest iteration promises to deliver an unparalleled driving experience that combines practicality with exhilaration.
With its spacious interior, cutting-edge safety features, and efficient powertrain options, the 2026 Ford S-Max is designed to meet the evolving needs of modern families and individuals seeking a versatile and stylish vehicle.
Overview
The 2026 Ford S-Max is a highly anticipated vehicle that is set to make a significant impact in the automotive industry. It is a mid-size crossover SUV that combines style, performance, and practicality, making it an ideal choice for families and individuals who seek a versatile and capable vehicle.
The S-Max boasts a sleek and modern design with a spacious and well-equipped interior. It is powered by a range of efficient and powerful engines, offering a balance of performance and fuel economy. With its advanced safety features, cutting-edge technology, and a host of customizable options, the S-Max is poised to become a leader in its class.
Target Audience and Market Positioning
The 2026 Ford S-Max is primarily targeted towards families and individuals who prioritize space, versatility, and a comfortable driving experience. It is well-suited for those who need a vehicle that can accommodate their active lifestyles, whether it’s for daily commutes, weekend getaways, or long road trips. The S-Max’s competitive pricing and feature-rich lineup make it an attractive option in the mid-size crossover SUV segment.
Design and Features
The 2026 Ford S-Max sports a sleek and aerodynamic exterior design. Measuring approximately 193 inches in length, 75 inches in width, and 65 inches in height, the S-Max boasts a spacious and versatile body style. Its exterior color palette offers a wide range of options, including classic hues like Oxford White and Agate Black, as well as more vibrant shades like Rapid Red and Blue Lightning.
Stepping inside the S-Max reveals a thoughtfully designed and technologically advanced interior. The seating configuration provides ample space for up to seven passengers, with comfortable and supportive seats upholstered in premium materials. The dashboard features a sleek and intuitive design, integrating a large touchscreen display, digital instrument cluster, and a variety of physical controls for ease of use. The S-Max is also equipped with a panoramic sunroof, providing an airy and spacious ambiance.
In terms of safety and driver assistance, the 2026 Ford S-Max comes packed with a comprehensive suite of features. These include advanced driver assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The S-Max also boasts a high-resolution surround-view camera system, providing drivers with a clear view of their surroundings for enhanced maneuverability and safety.
Performance and Efficiency
The 2026 Ford S-Max offers a range of powertrain options to cater to different driving needs and preferences. The base engine is a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-four that produces 191 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
For those seeking more power, the S-Max can be equipped with a 2.7-liter turbocharged V6 engine that generates 325 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
In terms of performance, the S-Max with the 2.5-liter engine can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 8.5 seconds, while the V6-powered model can do it in about 6 seconds. Both engines offer respectable fuel economy, with the 2.5-liter achieving an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, and the V6 getting 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
The S-Max handles well, with precise steering and responsive handling. The ride quality is comfortable, even on rough roads. Braking is also impressive, with the S-Max coming to a stop from 60 mph in just 120 feet.
Technology and Connectivity
The 2026 Ford S-Max is a technological powerhouse, offering an advanced infotainment system and seamless connectivity options.
The centerpiece of the S-Max’s interior is a large, responsive touchscreen display that serves as the hub for all infotainment and connectivity features. The user interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, with customizable widgets and shortcuts for quick access to frequently used apps.
Infotainment System
- 13.2-inch touchscreen display
- Ford’s SYNC 4 infotainment system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
- SiriusXM satellite radio
- Built-in navigation with real-time traffic updates
Connectivity
- Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming
- Wi-Fi hotspot for up to 10 devices
- FordPass Connect app for remote vehicle access and control
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go
- Lane keeping assist
- Blind spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert
- Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
Pricing and Availability
The 2026 Ford S-Max is expected to be priced competitively within its segment, offering various trim levels to cater to different customer needs and budgets. The base model is anticipated to start at around $35,000, while higher trim levels could reach up to $50,000 or more.
The S-Max will be available in a wide range of markets and regions worldwide, including North America, Europe, and Asia. It will be offered in both left-hand drive and right-hand drive configurations to accommodate different driving preferences.
Ford may also introduce special editions or limited-run models of the S-Max in the future, offering unique features, exclusive design elements, and limited production numbers. These special editions often cater to specific customer demographics or commemorate significant events.
Comparison to Competitors
The Ford S-Max faces competition from several established players in the minivan segment. Key rivals include the Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, and Chrysler Pacifica. To assess the S-Max’s competitive standing, let’s compare its specifications, features, and pricing against these models.
Specifications and Features
| Feature | Ford S-Max | Toyota Sienna | Honda Odyssey | Chrysler Pacifica |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | 7 or 8 | 7 or 8 | 7 or 8 | 7 or 8 |
| Engine Power | 250 hp | 245 hp | 280 hp | 287 hp |
| Fuel Economy (mpg) | 25 city / 30 highway | 24 city / 30 highway | 22 city / 28 highway | 19 city / 28 highway |
| Cargo Space (cu. ft.) | 34.4 | 33.5 | 32.8 | 32.3 |
| Standard Safety Features | Lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring | Lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control | Lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning | Lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, surround-view camera |
Pricing
| Trim Level | Ford S-Max | Toyota Sienna | Honda Odyssey | Chrysler Pacifica |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base | $32,000 | $34,560 | $33,910 | $35,420 |
| Mid-level | $37,000 | $40,150 | $39,620 | $41,440 |
| Top-of-the-line | $42,000 | $46,320 | $45,310 | $49,995 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
The Ford S-Max holds its own against its competitors in terms of seating capacity, fuel economy, and standard safety features. However, it falls short in engine power and cargo space compared to the Honda Odyssey and Chrysler Pacifica. Additionally, the S-Max’s pricing is slightly higher than the base models of the Sienna and Odyssey.
FAQ Summary
What are the key features of the 2026 Ford S-Max?
The 2026 Ford S-Max boasts a range of key features, including a spacious and versatile interior, advanced safety systems, and a powerful and efficient powertrain.
What is the fuel economy of the 2026 Ford S-Max?
The fuel economy of the 2026 Ford S-Max will vary depending on the chosen powertrain option. However, it is expected to offer competitive fuel efficiency within its class.
When will the 2026 Ford S-Max be available?
The 2026 Ford S-Max is expected to be available in select markets later in 2026. The exact release date may vary depending on the region.