Ford B-Max
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a practical family car that makes everyday life easier? The Ford B-Max might be the smart choice you’ve been searching for. This clever mini MPV offers something genuinely unique in the small car market with its pillarless design and sliding rear doors. It’s the car for families who need maximum practicality without the bulk of a larger vehicle.

What sets the B-Max apart from rivals like the Honda Jazz or Nissan Note is its revolutionary door system. With no central pillar between the front and rear doors, you get an enormous opening that makes fitting child seats or loading shopping incredibly easy. The interior feels surprisingly spacious for such a compact car, with a clever layout that maximises every inch of available space.

Driving the B-Max is a pleasant, relaxed experience. The efficient EcoBoost engines deliver good fuel economy while providing adequate performance for family duties. It handles predictably and rides comfortably, making it ideal for school runs and weekend trips. While it may not be the most exciting car to drive, it excels at making family life simpler and more convenient.

What's the Ford B-Max Like to Drive?

The Ford B-Max prioritises efficiency and practicality over outright performance. The 1.0 litre EcoBoost three cylinder engine is the star of the range, delivering around 100-125 horsepower depending on specification. It feels surprisingly peppy around town and provides adequate motorway performance for most drivers. The 1.4 litre petrol and 1.5 litre diesel options offer more power but are less efficient.

Where the B-Max excels is in its refined driving experience. The steering is light and easy at parking speeds, making urban manoeuvring effortless. The suspension does an excellent job of smoothing out bumps and potholes, while keeping body roll well controlled in corners. This compact MPV feels stable and secure on faster roads, with good visibility all around thanks to its upright driving position and large windows.

Inside the Ford B-Max: Comfort & Features

Step inside the B-Max and you’ll be impressed by how spacious it feels despite its compact exterior dimensions. The dashboard is clean and functional, with well positioned controls and a clear instrument cluster. Materials are hard wearing rather than luxurious, but everything feels solidly built and designed to withstand family life. The infotainment system includes Ford’s SYNC technology with Bluetooth connectivity.

The front seats are comfortable and supportive, with good adjustment range for different sized drivers. Where the B-Max really shines is passenger access and space. Those sliding rear doors and pillarless design create an opening wide enough to walk through, making child seat installation remarkably easy. The rear seats offer decent space for adults on shorter trips, while children will find plenty of room to stretch out.

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Ford B-Max?

The Ford B-Max is genuinely economical to run, especially with the efficient EcoBoost engines. Real world fuel economy regularly exceeds 50 mpg, with the diesel versions capable of over 60 mpg on longer runs. Insurance groups are reasonable for the class, typically falling into groups 8-15 depending on specification. Parts and servicing costs are competitive thanks to Ford’s extensive dealer network.

Purchase prices for used B-Max models are very attractive, offering excellent value compared to newer alternatives. The car’s practical design and Ford’s reputation for reliability make it a sensible choice for families on a budget. While it may not hold its value as well as some rivals, the low running costs help offset this. car finance options are readily available, making monthly budgeting easier for many buyers.

Ford B-Max Practicality & Boot Space

The Ford B-Max is exceptionally practical for its size, with the unique door design being its biggest selling point. The 318 litre boot is adequate for weekly shopping or a few suitcases, while the rear seats fold completely flat to create a useful loading space. Those pillarless openings make loading bulky items surprisingly easy for such a compact car.

For families with young children, the B-Max is hard to beat. Getting children in and out of car seats is effortless thanks to the wide door openings. The high seating position gives good visibility for all passengers. Storage throughout the cabin is thoughtful, with plenty of cupholders and door pockets. It’s an ideal choice for urban families who need maximum practicality from a car that’s still easy to park, and represents excellent value among used Ford cars.

The Ford B-Max stands out in the compact MPV market by offering genuine innovation that makes daily family life easier. Its pillarless design and sliding rear doors create unrivalled access, while the efficient engines and comfortable ride make it pleasant to drive every day. The combination of practicality, efficiency, and affordability makes it an attractive proposition for growing families.

You choose the B-Max because you want a car that works harder for your family. Its unique design solves real problems, from fitting car seats to loading shopping. The running costs are impressively low, and Ford’s dealer network provides peace of mind. For families seeking maximum practicality in a compact, efficient package, the B-Max deserves serious consideration, especially among cars under £10,000 where it offers exceptional value.