Ford Galaxy 2.0 EcoBoost Ghia (A) Review
08 Aug 2011|31,425 views
The Ford Galaxy was first introduced in 1995, and was Ford's first attempt at a full-size people carrier for the global market, or even any sort of people carrier. Hard to believe that before then, a major carmaker like Ford had no MPVs in its line-up outside of the US market.
The first Galaxy was a joint-effort with Volkswagen, and three versions of it were sold, all bearing different badges. Volkswagen's version was the Sharan, while Spanish manufacturer SEAT called it the Alhambra. All three were sold in Singapore, but bizarrely, the SEAT version was offered first, with the Galaxy not arriving here until 1998 and the Sharan even later.
The Galaxy was widely acclaimed in the press when it was launched, with its all-round driving capabilities resulting from a period of renaissance for Ford in the 1990s that started with the Mondeo. As the years passed, the Galaxy grew and evolved, and along the way, it separated from its Volkswagen brothers and developed into its own car.
The Galaxy has seen its position as the driver's MPV usurped by its younger brother, the S-Max, in recent years. So where does that leave the Galaxy then, especially with its new 2.0-litre EcoBoost powerplant?
The first Galaxy was a joint-effort with Volkswagen, and three versions of it were sold, all bearing different badges. Volkswagen's version was the Sharan, while Spanish manufacturer SEAT called it the Alhambra. All three were sold in Singapore, but bizarrely, the SEAT version was offered first, with the Galaxy not arriving here until 1998 and the Sharan even later.
The Galaxy was widely acclaimed in the press when it was launched, with its all-round driving capabilities resulting from a period of renaissance for Ford in the 1990s that started with the Mondeo. As the years passed, the Galaxy grew and evolved, and along the way, it separated from its Volkswagen brothers and developed into its own car.
The Galaxy has seen its position as the driver's MPV usurped by its younger brother, the S-Max, in recent years. So where does that leave the Galaxy then, especially with its new 2.0-litre EcoBoost powerplant?
 |
Exterior
The Galaxy looks fairly similar to its S-Max sibling, having the same Kinetic Design styling language. With the exception of minor details such as extra lights and positioning of various detailing, both cars share virtually the same silhouette.
That said, there are differences between the two. The Galaxy is both taller and longer than the S-Max, ostensibly because the Galaxy is meant to be a proper full-size people carrier, unlike the sportier S-Max.
The rear tailgate is more upright too, looking like a normal MPV, instead of the sleek and rakish looks of the S-Max. But this means that passenger space should be better as well.
 |
Interior
And it is. Starting from the back, the Galaxy's third row of seats looks more usable than the ones on the S-Max, with decent enough legroom to accommodate seven people in comfort.
Being bigger as well, the Galaxy offers commodious boot space for those trips to Ikea. However, getting to use that boot space can be a bit of a hassle. For one, the individual rear seats are rather heavy and cumbersome to fold down, taking a good degree of effort to figure out the right things to pull and adjust.
To ferry people though, is where the Galaxy scores highly. Like the S-Max, the Galaxy features rear seats can be individually-adjusted, and everyone can travel in comfort with the luxurious leather upholstery, and air con vents for the second and third row of passengers. There are also flip-up trays at the back of the front seats, so that passengers can pretend to be on an aeroplane, and have a mid-journey meal.
The Galaxy is practical too. A standout feature is the roof-mounted storage system that runs the entire length of the cabin, which can be used to store little knick-knacks for the kids during long journeys. As if that wasn't enough, there are also various compartments under the seats to hide whatever it is you need to hide, and numerous cubby holes throughout the cabin complement the Galaxy's impressive storage solutions.
And it is. Starting from the back, the Galaxy's third row of seats looks more usable than the ones on the S-Max, with decent enough legroom to accommodate seven people in comfort.
Being bigger as well, the Galaxy offers commodious boot space for those trips to Ikea. However, getting to use that boot space can be a bit of a hassle. For one, the individual rear seats are rather heavy and cumbersome to fold down, taking a good degree of effort to figure out the right things to pull and adjust.
To ferry people though, is where the Galaxy scores highly. Like the S-Max, the Galaxy features rear seats can be individually-adjusted, and everyone can travel in comfort with the luxurious leather upholstery, and air con vents for the second and third row of passengers. There are also flip-up trays at the back of the front seats, so that passengers can pretend to be on an aeroplane, and have a mid-journey meal.
The Galaxy is practical too. A standout feature is the roof-mounted storage system that runs the entire length of the cabin, which can be used to store little knick-knacks for the kids during long journeys. As if that wasn't enough, there are also various compartments under the seats to hide whatever it is you need to hide, and numerous cubby holes throughout the cabin complement the Galaxy's impressive storage solutions.
Up front, the driver is no less comfortable, with the Galaxy providing the same ease-of-use ability as the S-Max. Getting comfortable is a cinch, and one will get used to the driving position very quickly, with electrically-adjustable seats with memory helping to assist with that.
While Ford has tried to improve its build quality over the years, with noticeable efforts like the soft plastics and dark wood trim on the dashboard, they still have some way to go to match the impeccable quality of the Germans and Japanese. Disappointingly, a small number of trim throughout the interior appear to be poorly- fitted and coming loose.
There are also no reverse sensors on the Galaxy, which is a surprising omission for an MPV, especially one this big. These are small issues that are easily rectifiable, but it is quite regrettable for a car of its class.
While Ford has tried to improve its build quality over the years, with noticeable efforts like the soft plastics and dark wood trim on the dashboard, they still have some way to go to match the impeccable quality of the Germans and Japanese. Disappointingly, a small number of trim throughout the interior appear to be poorly- fitted and coming loose.
There are also no reverse sensors on the Galaxy, which is a surprising omission for an MPV, especially one this big. These are small issues that are easily rectifiable, but it is quite regrettable for a car of its class.
 |
The Drive
As the Galaxy is bigger and taller than the S-Max, you don't expect the same dynamic verve as its younger brother. However, it more than holds its own on the road despite its girth.
Purely by the laws of physics, no MPV should be able to handle corners enthusiastically without raising complaints, but the Galaxy defies those laws, tackling the twisties with aplomb, and eating up the bends as they come.
The car does have its limits though. The Galaxy's suspension is more softly-sprung than the S-Max, and so there is some degree of body roll should you charge into a corner too fast. It serves as a bit of a warning as to what purpose it is actually meant for, and is controllable once you back off the throttle.
The suspension also works itself well on the straights, offering a smooth and cosseting ride that evens out bumps excellently. For all its dynamic handling qualities, there's no escaping that this is a people carrier, designed to ferry people in utmost comfort.
Like the Mondeo and S-Max, the new Galaxy's 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine offers impressive performance, delivering the power in a smooth fashion up to highly illegal speeds. Obviously it's unwise to try that in Singapore, but it is mightily useful for trips up north.
Similarly, the Galaxy also comes with Ford's Powershift six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that is found in the Mondeo and S-Max, which provides slick gearshifts for optimum performance.
Overall, the Galaxy has lost none of its driving prowess that garnered it much praise when it was first launched a decade and a half ago, which is testament to Ford's engineering talents that has seen it remained top dog for so long.
As the Galaxy is bigger and taller than the S-Max, you don't expect the same dynamic verve as its younger brother. However, it more than holds its own on the road despite its girth.
Purely by the laws of physics, no MPV should be able to handle corners enthusiastically without raising complaints, but the Galaxy defies those laws, tackling the twisties with aplomb, and eating up the bends as they come.
The car does have its limits though. The Galaxy's suspension is more softly-sprung than the S-Max, and so there is some degree of body roll should you charge into a corner too fast. It serves as a bit of a warning as to what purpose it is actually meant for, and is controllable once you back off the throttle.
The suspension also works itself well on the straights, offering a smooth and cosseting ride that evens out bumps excellently. For all its dynamic handling qualities, there's no escaping that this is a people carrier, designed to ferry people in utmost comfort.
Like the Mondeo and S-Max, the new Galaxy's 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine offers impressive performance, delivering the power in a smooth fashion up to highly illegal speeds. Obviously it's unwise to try that in Singapore, but it is mightily useful for trips up north.
Similarly, the Galaxy also comes with Ford's Powershift six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that is found in the Mondeo and S-Max, which provides slick gearshifts for optimum performance.
Overall, the Galaxy has lost none of its driving prowess that garnered it much praise when it was first launched a decade and a half ago, which is testament to Ford's engineering talents that has seen it remained top dog for so long.
Conclusion
Choosing between the S-Max and the Galaxy is a difficult one. I guess ultimately, it boils down to what you really need and want, as well as your personality.
The S-Max is not so much a proper MPV. It's like a somewhat tall, sporty wagon, meant for really keen drivers who need a bit of practicality. Think of it as Ford's version of those German power estates, except not as expensive and ostentatious.
The Galaxy though, is a full-size MPV that just happens to drive well. You can see where its priorities lie, namely in terms of comfort and luxury. It is probably aimed at family men who appreciate the occasional brisk drive, but primarily use it as a form of transport for the family.
At the end of the day, it all depends on the individual, and what he/she is willing to trade off when making their choice. But for what it's worth, the Galaxy EcoBoost offers a package that is hard to beat for a mainstream seven-seater MPV.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
Choosing between the S-Max and the Galaxy is a difficult one. I guess ultimately, it boils down to what you really need and want, as well as your personality.
The S-Max is not so much a proper MPV. It's like a somewhat tall, sporty wagon, meant for really keen drivers who need a bit of practicality. Think of it as Ford's version of those German power estates, except not as expensive and ostentatious.
The Galaxy though, is a full-size MPV that just happens to drive well. You can see where its priorities lie, namely in terms of comfort and luxury. It is probably aimed at family men who appreciate the occasional brisk drive, but primarily use it as a form of transport for the family.
At the end of the day, it all depends on the individual, and what he/she is willing to trade off when making their choice. But for what it's worth, the Galaxy EcoBoost offers a package that is hard to beat for a mainstream seven-seater MPV.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
The Ford Galaxy was first introduced in 1995, and was Ford's first attempt at a full-size people carrier for the global market, or even any sort of people carrier. Hard to believe that before then, a major carmaker like Ford had no MPVs in its line-up outside of the US market.
The first Galaxy was a joint-effort with Volkswagen, and three versions of it were sold, all bearing different badges. Volkswagen's version was the Sharan, while Spanish manufacturer SEAT called it the Alhambra. All three were sold in Singapore, but bizarrely, the SEAT version was offered first, with the Galaxy not arriving here until 1998 and the Sharan even later.
The Galaxy was widely acclaimed in the press when it was launched, with its all-round driving capabilities resulting from a period of renaissance for Ford in the 1990s that started with the Mondeo. As the years passed, the Galaxy grew and evolved, and along the way, it separated from its Volkswagen brothers and developed into its own car.
The Galaxy has seen its position as the driver's MPV usurped by its younger brother, the S-Max, in recent years. So where does that leave the Galaxy then, especially with its new 2.0-litre EcoBoost powerplant?
The first Galaxy was a joint-effort with Volkswagen, and three versions of it were sold, all bearing different badges. Volkswagen's version was the Sharan, while Spanish manufacturer SEAT called it the Alhambra. All three were sold in Singapore, but bizarrely, the SEAT version was offered first, with the Galaxy not arriving here until 1998 and the Sharan even later.
The Galaxy was widely acclaimed in the press when it was launched, with its all-round driving capabilities resulting from a period of renaissance for Ford in the 1990s that started with the Mondeo. As the years passed, the Galaxy grew and evolved, and along the way, it separated from its Volkswagen brothers and developed into its own car.
The Galaxy has seen its position as the driver's MPV usurped by its younger brother, the S-Max, in recent years. So where does that leave the Galaxy then, especially with its new 2.0-litre EcoBoost powerplant?
|
Exterior
The Galaxy looks fairly similar to its S-Max sibling, having the same Kinetic Design styling language. With the exception of minor details such as extra lights and positioning of various detailing, both cars share virtually the same silhouette.
That said, there are differences between the two. The Galaxy is both taller and longer than the S-Max, ostensibly because the Galaxy is meant to be a proper full-size people carrier, unlike the sportier S-Max.
The rear tailgate is more upright too, looking like a normal MPV, instead of the sleek and rakish looks of the S-Max. But this means that passenger space should be better as well.
|
Interior
And it is. Starting from the back, the Galaxy's third row of seats looks more usable than the ones on the S-Max, with decent enough legroom to accommodate seven people in comfort.
Being bigger as well, the Galaxy offers commodious boot space for those trips to Ikea. However, getting to use that boot space can be a bit of a hassle. For one, the individual rear seats are rather heavy and cumbersome to fold down, taking a good degree of effort to figure out the right things to pull and adjust.
To ferry people though, is where the Galaxy scores highly. Like the S-Max, the Galaxy features rear seats can be individually-adjusted, and everyone can travel in comfort with the luxurious leather upholstery, and air con vents for the second and third row of passengers. There are also flip-up trays at the back of the front seats, so that passengers can pretend to be on an aeroplane, and have a mid-journey meal.
The Galaxy is practical too. A standout feature is the roof-mounted storage system that runs the entire length of the cabin, which can be used to store little knick-knacks for the kids during long journeys. As if that wasn't enough, there are also various compartments under the seats to hide whatever it is you need to hide, and numerous cubby holes throughout the cabin complement the Galaxy's impressive storage solutions.
And it is. Starting from the back, the Galaxy's third row of seats looks more usable than the ones on the S-Max, with decent enough legroom to accommodate seven people in comfort.
Being bigger as well, the Galaxy offers commodious boot space for those trips to Ikea. However, getting to use that boot space can be a bit of a hassle. For one, the individual rear seats are rather heavy and cumbersome to fold down, taking a good degree of effort to figure out the right things to pull and adjust.
To ferry people though, is where the Galaxy scores highly. Like the S-Max, the Galaxy features rear seats can be individually-adjusted, and everyone can travel in comfort with the luxurious leather upholstery, and air con vents for the second and third row of passengers. There are also flip-up trays at the back of the front seats, so that passengers can pretend to be on an aeroplane, and have a mid-journey meal.
The Galaxy is practical too. A standout feature is the roof-mounted storage system that runs the entire length of the cabin, which can be used to store little knick-knacks for the kids during long journeys. As if that wasn't enough, there are also various compartments under the seats to hide whatever it is you need to hide, and numerous cubby holes throughout the cabin complement the Galaxy's impressive storage solutions.
Up front, the driver is no less comfortable, with the Galaxy providing the same ease-of-use ability as the S-Max. Getting comfortable is a cinch, and one will get used to the driving position very quickly, with electrically-adjustable seats with memory helping to assist with that.
While Ford has tried to improve its build quality over the years, with noticeable efforts like the soft plastics and dark wood trim on the dashboard, they still have some way to go to match the impeccable quality of the Germans and Japanese. Disappointingly, a small number of trim throughout the interior appear to be poorly- fitted and coming loose.
There are also no reverse sensors on the Galaxy, which is a surprising omission for an MPV, especially one this big. These are small issues that are easily rectifiable, but it is quite regrettable for a car of its class.
While Ford has tried to improve its build quality over the years, with noticeable efforts like the soft plastics and dark wood trim on the dashboard, they still have some way to go to match the impeccable quality of the Germans and Japanese. Disappointingly, a small number of trim throughout the interior appear to be poorly- fitted and coming loose.
There are also no reverse sensors on the Galaxy, which is a surprising omission for an MPV, especially one this big. These are small issues that are easily rectifiable, but it is quite regrettable for a car of its class.
|
The Drive
As the Galaxy is bigger and taller than the S-Max, you don't expect the same dynamic verve as its younger brother. However, it more than holds its own on the road despite its girth.
Purely by the laws of physics, no MPV should be able to handle corners enthusiastically without raising complaints, but the Galaxy defies those laws, tackling the twisties with aplomb, and eating up the bends as they come.
The car does have its limits though. The Galaxy's suspension is more softly-sprung than the S-Max, and so there is some degree of body roll should you charge into a corner too fast. It serves as a bit of a warning as to what purpose it is actually meant for, and is controllable once you back off the throttle.
The suspension also works itself well on the straights, offering a smooth and cosseting ride that evens out bumps excellently. For all its dynamic handling qualities, there's no escaping that this is a people carrier, designed to ferry people in utmost comfort.
Like the Mondeo and S-Max, the new Galaxy's 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine offers impressive performance, delivering the power in a smooth fashion up to highly illegal speeds. Obviously it's unwise to try that in Singapore, but it is mightily useful for trips up north.
Similarly, the Galaxy also comes with Ford's Powershift six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that is found in the Mondeo and S-Max, which provides slick gearshifts for optimum performance.
Overall, the Galaxy has lost none of its driving prowess that garnered it much praise when it was first launched a decade and a half ago, which is testament to Ford's engineering talents that has seen it remained top dog for so long.
As the Galaxy is bigger and taller than the S-Max, you don't expect the same dynamic verve as its younger brother. However, it more than holds its own on the road despite its girth.
Purely by the laws of physics, no MPV should be able to handle corners enthusiastically without raising complaints, but the Galaxy defies those laws, tackling the twisties with aplomb, and eating up the bends as they come.
The car does have its limits though. The Galaxy's suspension is more softly-sprung than the S-Max, and so there is some degree of body roll should you charge into a corner too fast. It serves as a bit of a warning as to what purpose it is actually meant for, and is controllable once you back off the throttle.
The suspension also works itself well on the straights, offering a smooth and cosseting ride that evens out bumps excellently. For all its dynamic handling qualities, there's no escaping that this is a people carrier, designed to ferry people in utmost comfort.
Like the Mondeo and S-Max, the new Galaxy's 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine offers impressive performance, delivering the power in a smooth fashion up to highly illegal speeds. Obviously it's unwise to try that in Singapore, but it is mightily useful for trips up north.
Similarly, the Galaxy also comes with Ford's Powershift six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that is found in the Mondeo and S-Max, which provides slick gearshifts for optimum performance.
Overall, the Galaxy has lost none of its driving prowess that garnered it much praise when it was first launched a decade and a half ago, which is testament to Ford's engineering talents that has seen it remained top dog for so long.
Conclusion
Choosing between the S-Max and the Galaxy is a difficult one. I guess ultimately, it boils down to what you really need and want, as well as your personality.
The S-Max is not so much a proper MPV. It's like a somewhat tall, sporty wagon, meant for really keen drivers who need a bit of practicality. Think of it as Ford's version of those German power estates, except not as expensive and ostentatious.
The Galaxy though, is a full-size MPV that just happens to drive well. You can see where its priorities lie, namely in terms of comfort and luxury. It is probably aimed at family men who appreciate the occasional brisk drive, but primarily use it as a form of transport for the family.
At the end of the day, it all depends on the individual, and what he/she is willing to trade off when making their choice. But for what it's worth, the Galaxy EcoBoost offers a package that is hard to beat for a mainstream seven-seater MPV.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
Choosing between the S-Max and the Galaxy is a difficult one. I guess ultimately, it boils down to what you really need and want, as well as your personality.
The S-Max is not so much a proper MPV. It's like a somewhat tall, sporty wagon, meant for really keen drivers who need a bit of practicality. Think of it as Ford's version of those German power estates, except not as expensive and ostentatious.
The Galaxy though, is a full-size MPV that just happens to drive well. You can see where its priorities lie, namely in terms of comfort and luxury. It is probably aimed at family men who appreciate the occasional brisk drive, but primarily use it as a form of transport for the family.
At the end of the day, it all depends on the individual, and what he/she is willing to trade off when making their choice. But for what it's worth, the Galaxy EcoBoost offers a package that is hard to beat for a mainstream seven-seater MPV.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
Photos by Julian Kho
Car Information
Ford Galaxy 2.0 Ecoboost Ghia (A)
CAT B|Petrol|12.4km/L
Horsepower
151kW (203 bhp)
Torque
300 Nm
Acceleration
8.8sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Ford Galaxy
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