{
  "id": 9083430,
  "title": "Gebrauchtwagen-Check: Der Ford S-Max ist manchmal nicht ganz dicht",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/22/gebrauchtwagen-check-der-ford-s-max-ist-manchmal-nicht-ganz-dicht",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-22T04:34:44.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Handelsblatt",
    "slug": "handelsblatt",
    "url": "https://www.handelsblatt.com/mobilitaet/motor/gebrauchtwagen-check-der-ford-s-max-ist-manchmal-nicht-ganz-dicht/100256402.html"
  },
  "original_language": "de",
  "account": "The second-generation Ford S-Max was available between 2015 and late 2023. This van appealed to customers seeking ample space and versatility, but not those looking for a \"Pampersbomber.\" Despite its appealing exterior, the TÜV reveals both good and bad aspects. The four-wheel-drive van handles weights up to two tonnes without issue, with solid suspension, steering, and axle springs. However, the lighting check shows oil leaks as a persistent problem across all years. TÜV experts also noted higher wear on brake discs, and in older models, issues during exhaust tests. The S-Max shares its platform with the spacious Galaxy and the Mondeo sedan. Visually, the van successfully stands out with a sporty and stylish look. The 4.80-meter-long five-seater offers ample room for at least five people thanks to its 2.85-meter wheelbase. Optional seats for six or seven are more suitable for younger passengers. The S-Max impresses with its versatility: the three identical front seats can be shifted and individually folded. The extra seats in the rear fold away when not needed, revealing an even loading floor. The boot volume varies between 965 and 2,020 liters for five-seaters, and 282 and 2,020 liters for seven-seaters. In 2019, the S-Max received a facelift, evident in its revised front end. Engines available included four-cylinder petrol, diesel, and front or all-wheel drive options. Diesel models were limited to the turbocharged 1.5-liter, offering 118 kW/160 PS (2018-165 PS) as a more economical choice at 6.5-7.4 liters per 100 km compared to the 4.0-liter at 8 liters. Transmission was through either a manual six-speed or a six-speed automatic (240 PS) to the front wheels. The turbocharged 2.0-liter was discontinued in late 2021, with the S-Max then offered only in a fully electric variant with 190 PS. The average consumption was rated at 5.6 liters by Ford. The base \"Trend\" version comes well-equipped, while higher versions like \"Titanium,\" \"ST-Line,\" and \"Vignale\" offer minimal additional features. Leather, LED headlights, smartphone integration, navigation, chrome accents, panoramic glass roof, 19-inch lightweight wheels, and more transform the van into a comfortable and stylish companion. Various driver aids were either standard or optional. In conclusion, Ford paired the S-Max's stylish design with robust practicality, offering a range of engines from frugal to sporty. Buyers should, however, have their potential vehicle professionally inspected to avoid costly surprises, especially for first-time S-Max owners who typically cover more miles. As of the latest data from mobile.de, around 1,300 used S-Max models are for sale, starting at roughly €5,000 for a diesel with high mileage.",
  "summary": "Schick und praktisch: Das war das Erfolgsrezept des Ford S-Max. Beim Gebrauchtwagenkauf schadet ein Blick auf bekannte Schwachstellen aber nicht, zeigt die TÜV‑Statistik.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}