Ford S-Max vs VW Touran — MPV Comparison

Quick Verdict

When it comes to choosing between the Ford S-Max and the VW Touran, the S-Max takes the crown for its engaging driving experience and spacious interior. However, the Touran offers a more refined ride and superior build quality, making it a strong contender for families seeking reliability and comfort. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritise driving pleasure or practicality.

Running Costs Compared

In the current market, running costs are a crucial factor for anyone considering a used MPV. Both the Ford S-Max and VW Touran offer competitive fuel efficiency and reasonable servicing costs, but there are notable differences worth exploring.

Fuel Economy

The Ford S-Max typically boasts a real-world fuel economy of around 45-55 MPG, depending on the engine choice. The 2.0-litre diesel variant is particularly popular, offering excellent fuel efficiency for long journeys. Meanwhile, the VW Touran, with its 1.6-litre TDI engine, can achieve similar figures, often hovering around 50-60 MPG in real-world conditions. This slight edge in fuel economy can make a significant difference for families covering long distances.

Insurance Groups

Insurance costs can vary significantly between these two models. The Ford S-Max generally falls into insurance groups 15-20, depending on the trim level and engine. In contrast, the VW Touran tends to sit in a slightly lower range of insurance groups, around 12-18. This can translate to lower premiums for Touran owners, making it a more budget-friendly option for families.

Servicing and Maintenance

Both vehicles have reasonable servicing costs, but the S-Max can sometimes be more expensive due to its larger engine options and the complexity of its systems. On average, you might expect to pay around £250-£350 for an annual service on the S-Max, while the Touran's servicing costs can be slightly lower, averaging about £200-£300. Tyre prices are also comparable, with both models requiring mid-range tyres costing around £70-£100 each.

Reliability Compared

Reliability is paramount when choosing a used MPV, especially for families who depend on their vehicle for daily activities. Both the Ford S-Max and VW Touran have solid reputations, but they each have their quirks.

MOT Pass Rates

According to recent data, the Ford S-Max has a respectable MOT pass rate of around 80%. Common issues that could lead to failure include suspension wear and electrical faults, particularly in older models. On the other hand, the VW Touran boasts a slightly higher pass rate of about 85%, with fewer reported issues related to the engine and transmission.

Common Failure Points

The S-Max is known for its spaciousness and comfort, but it can suffer from wear and tear on the suspension and brakes, especially if it has been used for heavy loads. The Touran, while generally reliable, has been reported to have issues with the DSG automatic gearbox in some models, which can be costly to repair. Regular maintenance and checks can help mitigate these issues, but it’s wise to consider them when looking at used options.

What Actually Breaks

In the S-Max, owners have reported problems with the electronic handbrake and the dual-clutch transmission in some models. In contrast, Touran owners often cite issues with the air conditioning system and electrical gremlins as common problems. Checking the MOT history of any used vehicle can provide insights into past issues, and you can do this easily through the GOV.UK MOT history service.

If you are weighing up alternatives, our guide to BMW X1 vs Mercedes GLA covers similar ground from a different angle.

Practicality Compared

When it comes to family vehicles, practicality is king. Both the Ford S-Max and VW Touran are designed with family needs in mind, but they approach this goal differently.

Boot Space

The Ford S-Max offers a generous boot space of around 285 litres with all seats up, which expands to a whopping 2,000 litres with the rear seats folded down. This makes it an excellent choice for families who need to carry a lot of gear, whether it's for a weekend away or the weekly shop. The VW Touran, while slightly smaller, still provides a respectable boot space of 137 litres with the seats up and up to 1,857 litres when the seats are folded. While the Touran is more compact, it still offers ample space for everyday use.

Rear Legroom

In terms of rear legroom, the S-Max shines with its spacious second row, allowing adults to sit comfortably without feeling cramped. The Touran, while offering decent legroom, can feel a bit tighter, especially for taller passengers. However, the Touran compensates with its versatile seating arrangements, allowing for easy adjustments to accommodate both passengers and cargo.

Infotainment and Safety Kit

Both vehicles come equipped with modern infotainment systems, but the Ford S-Max tends to have a more user-friendly interface. The Touran, on the other hand, is known for its high-quality materials and build, giving it a more premium feel. Safety features are abundant in both models, with the S-Max often coming with advanced driver assistance systems, while the Touran typically includes a robust suite of safety features as standard.

For more on this topic, take a look at our SEAT Leon vs Skoda Octavia guide.

Value for Money

When considering value for money, depreciation plays a significant role. Both the Ford S-Max and VW Touran have their strengths in this area, but they cater to different buyer preferences.

Depreciation Curves

The Ford S-Max tends to depreciate faster than the Touran, primarily due to its larger size and higher initial price point. This means that you can often find a well-specced S-Max at a lower price compared to a similarly aged Touran. However, the Touran's slower depreciation means it can hold its value better over time, making it a wise investment for those who plan to keep their vehicle for several years.

Sweet-Spot Age to Buy

For the S-Max, the sweet spot for buying used is typically around 3-5 years old. At this age, you can find models that are still under warranty and have seen less wear and tear. The Touran, however, holds its value well, so you might want to consider a slightly older model, around 4-6 years, to get the best deal without sacrificing reliability.

Dave's Final Call

Choosing between the Ford S-Max and VW Touran ultimately comes down to your specific needs. If you’re a commuter or a family that prioritises driving enjoyment and space, the S-Max is the clear winner. Its engaging handling and spacious interior make it a joy to drive, especially on longer journeys. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a reliable family car that offers a premium feel and excellent build quality, the Touran is hard to beat.

For families needing maximum practicality, the S-Max’s larger boot space and rear legroom make it a standout choice. However, if you prefer a vehicle that’s slightly easier on the wallet in terms of insurance and running costs, the Touran could be your best bet.

You might also find our Nissan Qashqai vs Kia Sportage Reliability guide useful alongside this one.

Regardless of your choice, always check the vehicle's history and condition before buying. Tools like Dave's free vehicle intelligence report can help you make an informed decision, ensuring you get the best value for your money. Whether you opt for the Ford S-Max or the VW Touran, both are excellent choices that cater to the diverse needs of UK families today.

We have covered related ground in our Used Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla? True Running Cost Comparison guide, which is worth reading if this subject interests you.

In conclusion, both the Ford S-Max and VW Touran have their unique strengths and weaknesses. By considering your specific requirements, you can make a well-informed decision that suits your lifestyle and budget. Happy car hunting!

You can check the exact safety score for any model on the Euro NCAP website.

If things go wrong after purchase, Citizens Advice can help you understand your legal rights.

You can look up the exact insurance group for any car on Thatcham's website before getting quotes.