C-Max Grand vs S-Max

feedtheram · 8 Feb 2012 at 13:08

Hi all

Can anyone give opinions on the C-Max Grand vs the S-Max?

We're getting a new family car and have access to the Ford Privilege scheme making a new c-max grand just about affordable (around the 14k mark).

Problem is i really want an S-Max so am toying with the idea of spending a bit less on a second hand S-max. Downside obviously being no warranty and higher running costs.

I'm going to test drive both this weekend but wondered if anyone had any experience with either car.

feedtheram · 8 Feb 2012 at 15:19

The research i have done so far suggests the s-max will drink more and cost more for tax and insurance (dependant on engine of course) - although we don't do big mileage so hopefully shouldn't be too big an issue.

The wife is leaning more towards the c-max due to it being new and having a 3 year warranty - she previously had a nightmare with a dodgy VW she had always breaking down on her. Plus the Ford privilege means £1700 off whatever i can negotiate with the dealer.

I'm hoping the test drive will sway her - she openly admits she prefers the look of the S and that it's more practical. Anyone care to share some new car horror stories i can spook her with?

feedtheram · 8 Feb 2012 at 15:58

monkey_boy said:
A '10 plate Titanium trim S-Max is within budget, so warranty is covered and you'd get a better spec, I'd imagine. What model C-Max are you looking at for £14k?

1.6 Petrol Zetec. Nothing fancy.

List price is around £19k but the dealer had knocked off £2.5k if we go for one that's on its way in already (assume this is standard practice).

A further £1.7k off from the Ford privilage and £500 less for taking out finance (they offered us a 2 year 0% finance deal).

Was planning on trying to get a further few hundred quid off if we go down the c-max route although not sure how viable that will be - i haven't mentioned the privilage discount yet

Also got an old focus to part ex although i'm fairly sure i will get more selling it private.

feedtheram · 8 Feb 2012 at 16:21

Brookert said:
I wouldn't tarnish used cars because your wife has had one bad run in with a VW.

I'm certainly not doing that - i want the second hand s-max and just need to convince her thats the better choice. She will use it more so has a bit more input but i think the test drive should sway her my way.