Ford to unveil 5-seat S-MAX model at Beijing auto show

Shanghai, April 14 (Gasgoo.com) At the upcoming 2008 Beijing auto show, Ford will release the Ford S-MAX Trend, a five-seat variant of Europe's 2007 Car of the Year. Ford introduced the S-MAX in 2007, a Sport Activity Vehicle with three rows of seats for seven people. Now the two rear seats are removed to make larger room for cargo. And the vehicle's price will be reduced. 

After its roll-out last year, Ford's S-MAX model was well received for its spaciousness, safety, and convenience. But not every consumer likes to have seven seats in it. "Introducing a five-seat variant to the S-MAX range makes perfect sense and illustrates Ford's ability to provide Chinese customers with cars and features they want," said Nigel Harris, General Manager of Changan Ford Sales Company.

Although the Ford S-MAX Trend has seats only for five people, the buyer / owner is provided with 185 liters more of rear cargo space. Power comes from a 2.3 liter, all-aluminum engine which produces 117 kW at 6,500 rpm and 205 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm and is coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission.

For many Chinese customers who need a vehicle made for middle-class family use and for ample personalized features, the five-seat Ford S-MAX Trend is expected to be one of their best choices.