Ford Galaxy vs Ford S-MAX: Used Car Comparison
15th Jul 2025
Multi-Purpose Vehicles (MPVs), also known as people carriers, are known for their spacious interiors, making them ideal for large families while offering a driving experience similar to that of a comfortable car.
Among some of the most popular MPVs are the Ford Galaxy and S-Max. Similar vehicles that offer practicality and versatility with their flexible seating and roomy cabin, they were the top choice for a lot of Britons looking for a vehicle capable of transporting up to 7 people or large items.
This article will explore both vehicles’ best features and point out the main differences to help you make an informed decision when choosing the best MPV for your needs.
- Introduction and Design
- Versions and Performance
- Interior and Technology
- Practicality
- Value and Final Thoughts
Introduction and Design
Originally launched in 1995, the Galaxy was introduced to Ford’s range as a large MPV, practical for large families or people who need versatility and comfort. Capable of transporting cosily up to 7 people, the Galaxy is an alternative to the well-known North American minivans, which were also designed to be functional and spacious to carry people and cargo.
Over the years, the Galaxy went through several facelifts that improved the exterior design and included more up to date onboard technology to keep up with the times and drivers’ needs. Galaxy’s last generation was introduced in 2015, and it displayed Ford’s Kinetic design language, including large trapezoidal grille, sculpted body lines, and pronounced wheel arches. In 2020 the front grilled was updated to look taller and more upright.
In 2006, Ford introduced the S-Max, its newest addition to the MPV range, featuring sportier styling, and enhanced driving dynamics compared to other MPVs in the lineup. Designed as a more fashionable alternative to the box, standard MPVs already in Ford’s range, the S-Max brought a sense of refinement and maturity to the segment.
The S-Max had two generations, with the latest merging its original athletic look with elegant design elements such as classier front grille, sleek LED taillights, and sharper body lines, that gave the vehicle a premium look.
In 2023, Ford announced that the Galaxy alongside the S-Max would be discontinued as the brand was shifting its focus to SUVs.
Versions and Performance
In order to provide maximum performance, most engines available with the latest version of the Galaxy are diesel powered. You can choose between four options of 2.0-litre EcoBlue powered by diesel, with the most efficient option, the 118bhp version, delivering 48mpg.
If you prefer petrol cars, there’s also an option of a 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine that offers 162bhp and has a fuel economy of 34mpg. There’s a choice between manual and automatic transmissions.
The S-Max comes with three types of engines 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre petrol, and 2.0-litre diesel powered powertrains. Like the Galaxy, the diesel engine is the most cost-effective option available, returning around 47mpg.
By choosing the petrol powered engine, you’ll have a return of just under 35mpg, which makes little difference compared to the Galaxy. You also have the option to choose the transmission for the S-Max.
Interior and Technology
Spacious, technological, and comfortable, the Galaxy’s interior was designed to embrace and entertain a large family with ease. Equipped with an 8-inch infotainment system that comes with SYNC 3 pre-installed, connecting your smartphone to your car is an easy task with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Dual zone climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, and voice control are among the several amenities that comes as standard for the Galaxy. Higher trims come with more convenience tech such as keyless entrance and start, heated front and rear seats, and panoramic sunroof.
Also equipped with an 8-inch infotainment system, the screen used in the latest generation of the S-Max has capacitive technology, which improves responsiveness and accuracy when using the commands on the touch screen.
Sharing a similar standard package as the Galaxy, the S-Max’s infotainment system uses the same operating system, making it easy to connect to smartphones. Features such as power-adjustable front seats, heated windscreen, and electric tailgate can be found on higher trims.
Practicality
When looking at inside, both the Galaxy and the S-Max, can seat comfortably up to 7 people, with the same seat configuration: two seats in the front row, followed by three seats in the middle and another two in the rear end.
If storage space is what you’re looking for, you’ll be well served with either vehicle. Both offer folding rear and middle rows to expand the boot, which makes them ideal to transport medium to large items including furniture.
Here’s a comparison of the boot for your reference:
Galaxy
- All 7 seats up: 300 litres
- Third row folded down: 711 litres
- Third and second row folded down: 2,339 litres
S-Max
- All 7 seats up: 285 litres
- Third row folded down: 700 litres
- Third and second row folded down: 2,200 litres
Value and Final Thoughts
Choosing between the Ford Galaxy and S-Max can be challenging as both vehicles were designed to provide large families a comfortable vehicle with loads of room to transport everything they need with ease.
If you’re looking for a stylish MPV that focuses its design on sophistication whilst providing a car like driving experience, you’ll be well served with the S-Max. With a sophisticated design and a slightly smaller boot, you’ll be able to comfortably fit your essentials, as well as move flat pack and larger furniture without a problem.
However, if your focus is mainly on storage space and fuel economy, the Galaxy is a no-brainer. With 139 litres of extra storage space, and a slightly better fuel economy than the S-Max, the Galaxy will provide you with the practicality and flexibility MPVs are known for.
Find your perfect used car at Evans Halshaw
As two MPVs that cater to most large families’ needs, both models are very similar, even though they carry a couple of particularities that could help you make up your mind as to which is better suited for your needs.
Weather you love to drive in style, and want something like an used S-Max to provide a premium car driving experience, or if your sole focus is on the practicality and functionality an used Galaxy is known for, we can help you find the best deals and offers.
Alternatively, you can read more car comparison articles, as well as finding buying guides and all the information you need at Evans Halshaw blog.
