Geneva 2012: Ford B-Max

Official debut for Fiesta-based MPV happens in Geneva.

What is it?

Ford's supermini-based MPV (it shares its platform with the Fiesta) that is due to take the fight to the Opel Meriva. The B-Max packs a novel weapon though in the clever Easy Access Door System that does integrate the B-pillar into the sliding rear door to give unobstructed access to the cabin.

Why's it here?

Downsizing is the latest buzz word in the motor industry and the B-Max encapsulates that. At just over four metres it is only 11cm longer than the Fiesta on which it is based, yet 32cm shorter than the C-Max. However, thanks to the clever doors (which may make it onto the rest of the Ford MPV line-up), it is just as useable. Factor in the Ford 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine that offers big capacity performance in a small package and this is really a 'now' car.

Show stopper or floor filler?

As smart as the B-Max's doors are it is being debuted alongside the production-ready Fiesta ST and there really is only one winner in that competition. The B-Max is likely to win in the market though where it really counts.

Published on: March 5, 2012