The Price Range is at £19,495 to £23,995
The first Galaxy was designed and built by a joint venture between Ford & VW, and also sold by VW as the Sharan and SEAT as the Alhambra.
Galaxy uses predominantly Volkswagen mechanicals, most notably the 2.8L VR6 V6 engine from the top versions of the Golf, as well as VW's 1.9 litre turbodiesel unit. Only the 2.0 litre straight 4 petrol version uses a Ford powerplant, this is derived from the familiar pinto-direct over head cam family. In later years this unit was supplemented by a 2.3 litre 16 valve version first seen in the facelifted Scorpio. This engine was unique to the Ford Galaxy; similarly, this was the case with the 1.8 litre 20 valve turbo engine offered in the VW's Sharon and SEAT;s Alhambra. The original interior was a mix of both Ford and VW componentry, using a Golf derived instrument pack, and most of the switchgear, with the curved facia moulding itself was of Ford design, heavily reminiscent of that used in the Mondeo.
A major redesign in 2001 saw the Galaxy adopt the new Ford corporate front end, grille and headlamps. The interior, in particular the dashboard, was changed to VW designed items, which partly resembled those used in the Golf IV and Passat. Also, new motors and gearboxes were introduced. The second generation Galaxy was introduced at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show. It goes on sale alongside the shorter and lower S max in June.
The new Galaxy is larger than its predecessor, and is an entirely Ford design, with no VW content. With the smaller S MAX taking up the three seating rows compact MPV side of the market, Ford was able to expand the Galaxy in every dimension without losing sales in size conscious Europe. The 2007 Ford Galaxy is also entirely different from its predecessor, and is intended to be more mainstream than the sportier S MAX. One major selling point of the Galaxy and S MAX is the (Fold Flat System). This design allows the second and third row seats to fold flat into the floor. But on early Galaxys, there were water leaks through the ventilation, that could affect & in some case's did the electrics, but this was cured on later Galaxys. Even so, it's worth checking that all the windows open and close properly, the alarm is fault free and that the central locking operates reliably. Also check all the wipers. A separate problem can make them reluctant to switch off. And some 2.0 litre Galaxys have had problems with the engine's brain (Electronic Control Unit).
Behind the wheel got *****. The driving position isn’t as bus like as some MPV's, but you still sit pretty high. Even so, the seats and steering wheel feature plenty of adjustment, so most drivers will be able to make themselves comfortable. The dashboard is conventionally styled and clear. But visibility is compromised slightly by the four front pillars.
Space & practicality got *****. There's no need to remove any of the Galaxy’s seats to maximise luggage space, because the rear five seats all fold flat. There’s tons of headroom all round and enough legroom for seven adults. In five seat mode there’s a massive, well shaped boot, but when the 6 & 7th seats are raised, there’s only space for a couple of small bags. This is disapointing'ly, because as an MPV you are more like'ly to have all 7 seats up at most of the time.
Equipment got *****. There are three trim levels. LX cars have air con, a CD player, electric front windows and a heated front screen, but you need to step up to Zetec trim to add electric rear windows, alloys, climate control and electric driver’s seat adjustment. Ghia models get a CD changer, automatic lights and windscreen wipers and front and rear parking sensors.
Refinement got *****. The large glass area creates some wind noise at speed, but at least road and suspension noise are well shut out. Allthough the 2.0-litre diesel so far, can’t match the refinement of the Renault Espace’s diesel engines, it’s generally smooth and quiet.
Ride & handling got *****. The Galaxy isn’t as sharp as to drive as the S Max, because of its slightly softer suspension and extra height, but it still handles and steers well for a big MPV. The ride is generally compliant and comfortable, even large bumps fail to unsettle the Galaxy’s fine composure.
Performance got *****. There are four engines, but the 143bhp 2.0 is the only petrol option. The diesels are likely to be more popular, the 138bhp 2.0 turbodiesel, is flexible and strong enough for most needs.
Safety & security got *****. There are front and side airbags for the two front seats, while window airbags run the length of the cabin and there’s also a driver’s knee airbag. ABS is standard, but stability control is expected to be a cost option on most models. And an alarm and deadlocks to deter thieves.
Quality & reliability got *****. The interior is stylish, solidly constructed and there are plenty of appealing, soft touch materials on the top of the dashboard and the doors. Lower down and further back, the plastics aren’t as attractive, however. It’s too early too comment on long term reliability, but the previous Galaxy proved to be generally sturdy.
Buying & owning got *****. The Galaxy is comparable on price to rivals such as the Citroen C8, but it’s not clear yet if you’ll get such spectacular discounts on the list price. Carbon dioxide emissions and fuel economy aren’t brilliant, but the diesels return at least 43mpg. It’s too early yet to predict residual values.
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