New Ford Galaxy

Ford’s new boxy Galaxy proves it’s hip to be square writes Geraldine Herbert

What is it? While large MPVs have fallen out of favour with many families if you need seven seats more than just occasionally, it’s hard to beat the traditional people carrier and Ford have launched their third-generation Galaxy, the largest of their MPVs.

First impressions of the new Ford Galaxy? From the outside the  Galaxy is instantly recognisable and apart from the new grille and headlamps little has really changed but inside there is now a  much classier interior crammed with cutting-edge technology.

What about the interior?  While it gains very little in space over the S-Max, it is noticeably better in terms of headroom and legroom. There is plenty of room for three adults in the second row of seats and access to the rear seats is also very easy where space is also pretty decent.  Good quality materials are used throughout and the Galaxy comes well equipped with solar tinted glass; front and rear parking sensors; and leather-wrapped steering-wheel and gear lever and a host of other goodies all offered as standard. If you need a spare bedroom or have an IKEA shopping fetish you will love the 2,325 litres of space possible when all rear seats fold away.

New Ford Galaxy Interior

Ford Galaxy on road? Ford’s Galaxy is one of the more pleasant seven-seaters in which to spend your time and on the road its handling has long been a strong point.  Behind the wheel it feels considerably smaller and more agile than its size would suggest.

How much? Prices for the Galaxy start at €38,760 rising to €52,035.

Will it break the bank? With emissions from 129g/km  motor tax is €270 per year while official economy figures  promise up to 5 litres per 100 kms or 56.5mpg.

How safe? There’s a host of safety aids onboard including for the first time second-row seat side airbags but one particularly like is the new ‘Intelligent Speed Limiter’ system that scans traffic signs to ensure you never break the speed limit.

What about my options? Most Galaxy owners are likely to opt for a diesel engine so there are four 2.0-litre units to choose from and one petrol a 1.5-litre Ecoboost.  Two trims will be on offer with the  Zetec and Titanium and for the first time the new Galaxy will also be available with Ford’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive. There are also a host of innovative features including the option of an “Hands-Free Liftgate”. This is the ideal way to open a car boot when you’re weighed down with bags of shopping as all you do is simply kick or wave your foot under the rear bumper.

3 words to describe the Ford Galaxy? Premium; Spacious; Practical

Review courtesy of www.wheelsforwomen.ie