08 Aug 07
The virtually identical Galaxy, Alhambra and Sharan have been around for a long time now. First launched in 1996, they received a major overhaul in 2000 and, while the Alhambra and Sharan remain on sale, the Galaxy has now been replaced by Ford's own all-new version (closely related to the excellent S-Max). They're still good, though: plain to look at but practical to use, they're easy drive and own. The Galaxy, in particular, is cheap to run, as Ford parts and servicing is cheaper than the VW Group's.
The Volkswagen-made 2.8 V6 engine is fast but thirsty and the 2.3 petrol rather weedy; it's best to opt for one of the VW diesels (90bhp and 100bhp, with some 113bhp Galaxies and a 140bhp engine in the latest Alhambra and Sharan).
Ford Galaxy
Entry-level models are rather basically kitted-out, with cheap trim and upholstery and few luxuries, so head for higher-spec versions, unless you're just after a utilitarian holdall.
Road Test: Ford Galaxy
Road Test: VW Sharan
Road Test: Seat Alhambra
