SPY PICS: Ford B-Max
Here's the mini peoplemover we won't see in Australia, now that EcoSport is comingThe graffiti graphics might be adventurous, but there’s not been much of an attempt to really disguise these Carparazzi pix of Ford’s upcoming mini MPV, the Fiesta-based B-Max. In the flesh, the mini Ford looks inseparable from the concept car shown in Geneva last year.
With sliding rear doors and a more upright profile, the B-Max aims to present a useful interior with more space for passengers and luggage than a regular light hatchback. It is said to be around 320mm shorter than the Ford Focus-based C-Max MPV.
As captured in the Carparazzi shots, the dash is close, but not exactly Fiesta. The Darth Vader-style centre stack looks more than a little reminiscent though, as do the three-spoke steering wheel and hooded instrument binnacle.
The powertrain possibilities embrace all that is available in the current Fiesta range, including the 1.6-litre Duratec petrol and the 1.6-litre Duratorq turbodiesel, with the new 1.0-litre three-cylinder EcoBoost engine a possibility. Five-speed manual and six-speed dual-clutch Powershift auto transmissions are likely to be offered.
The B-Max will compete directly with Opel’s Meriva MPV — which is Australia-bound — and presents an interesting logistical challenge to Ford in Australia, with two Fiesta-based options to consider: the B-Max and the little EcoSport SUV. According to Ford Australia execs in India for the launch of the EcoSport, the latter is a more likely option in a market where SUVs appeal more than family-oriented MPVs.
— with Carparazzi
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