2026 Ford S-Max Specs: A Comprehensive Overview of the Upcoming MPV

The 2026 Ford S-Max is poised to make waves in the automotive industry, promising a captivating blend of style, performance, and practicality. With its sleek exterior, luxurious interior, and cutting-edge technology, this MPV is set to redefine the driving experience for families and adventure-seekers alike.

From its bold exterior design to its advanced safety features and impressive fuel economy, the 2026 Ford S-Max embodies Ford’s commitment to innovation and excellence. Let’s delve into the details of this highly anticipated vehicle and explore its key specifications.

Exterior Design

The 2026 Ford S-Max sports a striking exterior design that reflects the brand’s focus on sleekness and aerodynamic efficiency. Compared to its predecessors, the S-Max has undergone a complete makeover, featuring a bold and aggressive front fascia. The signature grille, flanked by sharp LED headlights, gives the car a fierce and sporty stance. The sculpted bonnet and muscular lines flowing along the sides enhance its dynamic appeal. The overall silhouette is elongated and streamlined, creating a sense of elegance and sophistication.

Dimensions and Shape

The 2026 S-Max has grown in size compared to the previous model. It measures 4,851 mm in length, 1,916 mm in width, and 1,660 mm in height, providing ample space for passengers and cargo. The wheelbase has been extended to 2,850 mm, offering improved stability and ride quality. The overall shape is characterized by smooth curves and sharp angles, giving the S-Max a distinctive and modern look.

Aesthetic Appeal

The exterior design of the 2026 S-Max exudes a premium and luxurious aura. The high-quality materials used in the construction and the meticulous attention to detail are evident throughout. The sleek lines and sculpted surfaces create a sense of movement and dynamism, even when the car is stationary. The S-Max is available in a range of vibrant colors, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles and stand out on the road.

Interior Features

The 2026 Ford S-Max features a sleek and spacious interior designed for comfort and convenience.

The cabin boasts a premium feel with high-quality materials and a well-thought-out layout. The seats are supportive and provide ample legroom and headroom for all occupants. The infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, with a large touchscreen display that dominates the dashboard.

Seating Capacity and Comfort

The S-Max offers seating for up to seven passengers. The front seats are power-adjustable and heated, while the second-row seats slide and recline for maximum comfort. The third row of seats is best suited for children or occasional use.

Amenities

The S-Max comes loaded with a range of amenities, including a panoramic sunroof, tri-zone climate control, and a premium audio system. The rear seats also feature individual climate controls and charging ports.

Infotainment System

The infotainment system is powered by Ford’s SYNC 4 system, which features a 13.2-inch touchscreen display. The system supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation. It also offers voice control and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Dashboard Layout

The dashboard is well-organized and easy to read. The instrument cluster is digital and customizable, while the center console houses the infotainment system and climate controls. The steering wheel is leather-wrapped and features controls for the audio system, cruise control, and voice commands.

Storage Options

The S-Max offers ample storage options, including a large center console, door pockets, and a hidden storage compartment under the front seats. The rear seats also fold down to create a flat load floor for maximum cargo capacity.

Powertrain and Performance

The 2026 Ford S-Max boasts a range of powertrain options designed to cater to diverse driving needs and preferences. At the heart of the S-Max lies a choice of advanced and efficient engines, each delivering an optimal balance of power, torque, and fuel economy.

Engine Specifications and Performance

The base engine for the S-Max is a turbocharged 2.0-liter EcoBoost inline-four, generating a healthy 250 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for everyday driving and spirited acceleration, propelling the S-Max from 0 to 60 mph in an impressive 6.5 seconds.

For those seeking even more power, the S-Max offers a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that cranks out an impressive 325 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. This potent engine unleashes exhilarating acceleration, enabling the S-Max to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 5.5 seconds.

Transmission Options

The 2026 Ford S-Max is available with a choice of two transmissions: a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission or a cutting-edge 10-speed automatic transmission. The 8-speed automatic provides seamless gear changes for a comfortable and refined driving experience, while the 10-speed automatic optimizes performance and fuel efficiency by delivering precise and timely gear shifts.

Fuel Economy

Despite its impressive performance capabilities, the 2026 Ford S-Max remains surprisingly fuel-efficient. The 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine achieves an estimated 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, while the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 returns an estimated 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. These impressive fuel economy figures make the S-Max an attractive option for both performance enthusiasts and eco-conscious drivers alike.

Safety Features

The 2026 Ford S-Max prioritizes passenger and driver safety, featuring an array of advanced safety systems and technologies. These features work together to prevent accidents, mitigate impacts, and protect occupants in the event of a collision.

The S-Max boasts a comprehensive suite of passive safety measures, including multiple airbags strategically positioned throughout the cabin to provide maximum protection in the event of a crash. The vehicle’s sturdy body structure is designed to absorb and disperse impact forces, further safeguarding occupants.

Active Safety Systems

The S-Max is equipped with a range of active safety systems that intervene to prevent or minimize the severity of accidents. These systems include:

• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Prevents wheel lock-up during braking, maintaining steering control and reducing stopping distances.
• Traction Control System (TCS): Regulates wheel spin to enhance traction and prevent loss of control, especially on slippery surfaces.
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Detects and corrects potential skids by applying brakes individually and adjusting engine power, ensuring stability.
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting speed to match traffic flow.
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW): Alerts the driver if the vehicle unintentionally drifts out of its lane, promoting lane discipline.
• Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM): Uses sensors to detect vehicles in blind spots, providing visual and audible warnings to assist in lane changes.

Driver-Assist Technologies

In addition to active safety systems, the S-Max incorporates advanced driver-assist technologies that enhance the driving experience and reduce the risk of accidents:

• Forward Collision Warning (FCW): Alerts the driver to potential frontal collisions and applies brakes if necessary.
• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): Automatically applies brakes to avoid or mitigate collisions if the driver fails to react in time.
• Adaptive Headlights: Adjust the beam pattern to optimize visibility in various driving conditions, improving nighttime visibility.
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA): Warns the driver of approaching vehicles when reversing, reducing the risk of collisions in parking lots or driveways.

Safety Ratings and Crash Test Results

The 2026 Ford S-Max has earned top safety ratings from independent organizations, including the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The vehicle has performed exceptionally well in crash tests, demonstrating its ability to protect occupants in various collision scenarios.

Technology and Connectivity

The 2026 Ford S-Max is equipped with an array of advanced technology and connectivity features, designed to enhance your driving experience and keep you connected on the road.

The central hub of the S-Max’s tech suite is the SYNC 4A infotainment system, which features a 13.2-inch touchscreen display. The system is intuitive and easy to use, with a customizable interface and voice control capabilities. It includes navigation, with real-time traffic updates and 3D mapping, to help you find your way around unfamiliar areas.

Smartphone integration is also a key feature of the S-Max. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both supported, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone to the infotainment system. This enables you to access your favorite apps, music, and messages while driving.

In terms of connectivity, the S-Max offers a wide range of options. Wi-Fi hotspot capability allows you to connect multiple devices to the internet, while Bluetooth connectivity enables hands-free phone calls and music streaming. Additionally, the S-Max features a wireless charging pad for compatible smartphones.

Fuel Economy and Emissions

The 2026 Ford S-Max is expected to offer impressive fuel economy and low emissions. Ford has not yet released official figures, but estimates suggest that the S-Max will achieve up to 35 mpg in combined city and highway driving. The S-Max’s fuel efficiency is likely to be influenced by its lightweight construction, aerodynamic design, and efficient powertrain.

Factors Affecting Fuel Efficiency

Several factors can affect the fuel efficiency of a vehicle, including:

• Engine type: Smaller, more efficient engines generally consume less fuel than larger, more powerful engines.
• Transmission: Automatic transmissions are typically less fuel-efficient than manual transmissions, but they offer greater convenience and smoothness.
• Driving conditions: Stop-and-go traffic and aggressive driving can significantly reduce fuel economy.

Comparison to Similar Vehicles

Compared to other vehicles in its class, the 2026 Ford S-Max is expected to have competitive fuel economy and emissions. The S-Max’s estimated fuel economy of 35 mpg is comparable to that of the Toyota Highlander (35 mpg) and the Honda Pilot (33 mpg). The S-Max’s emissions are also expected to be low, with an estimated CO2 output of around 200 grams per kilometer.

Pricing and Availability

The 2026 Ford S-Max is expected to have a starting price of around £35,000 for the base trim level. Higher trim levels will offer more features and a higher price tag. The S-Max will be available in a variety of trim levels, including the Titanium, ST-Line, and Vignale. The Titanium trim will offer features such as leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system. The ST-Line trim will add sporty features such as 19-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, and a rear spoiler. The Vignale trim will be the top-of-the-line trim level and will offer features such as 20-inch alloy wheels, a heated steering wheel, and massaging front seats. The 2026 Ford S-Max is expected to be released in the UK in late 2025.

Questions and Answers

What are the key dimensions of the 2026 Ford S-Max?

The 2026 Ford S-Max measures approximately 4,850 mm in length, 1,930 mm in width, and 1,660 mm in height, offering ample space for passengers and cargo.

Does the 2026 Ford S-Max offer a panoramic sunroof?

Yes, the 2026 Ford S-Max features a panoramic sunroof as an available option, providing an airy and spacious cabin experience.

What is the estimated fuel economy of the 2026 Ford S-Max?

The 2026 Ford S-Max is expected to deliver an impressive fuel economy, with estimates ranging from 15 km/l to 18 km/l, depending on the engine and transmission options.

What advanced safety features are available on the 2026 Ford S-Max?

The 2026 Ford S-Max offers a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking.

When is the expected release date of the 2026 Ford S-Max?

The 2026 Ford S-Max is anticipated to be released in the second half of 2026, with specific availability dates varying by region.