Ford Galaxy (2006-) Review

Comfort and Equipment

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The overall length of the new Galaxy is now up to 4,820mm and width to 1,854mm, though it now sits lower, at 1,676mm tall. It's a decent seven-seater, however, with access to the rearmost pair of seats easy enough for the able-bodied and there's enough room for adults (as long as the journey isn't too long). The middle row also has good legroom.

Space in the boot is restricted (up to 435 litres) and even when the rearmost seats are not in use, they cannot be folded completely flat into the floor, but there are plenty of possibilities here for manoeuvre. The rear seats all fold at the pull of a cord or lever - they don't tumble, but you can split/fold them in all the usual combinations - so there's no need to remove, carry and store heavy chairs.

The wide cabin gives loads of elbow room, headroom is plentiful and the front-seat passenger can really stretch out and relax. The seats aren't quite as sumptuously-upholstered as those of, say, an Espace, but they are well-shaped and supportive for long journeys, with scope for adjustment.

The Galaxy is set up for comfort, rather than an overly sporting driving experience and, while it's by no means van-like and cumbersome to drive (as detailed above) the kids and other passengers will probably thank you for opting for this over the stiffer-sprung, lower-riding S-MAX: the Galaxy is definitely the more comfortable long-distance cruiser for those not having the fun of the driving experience.

It also rides well over bumps, potholes and broken road surfaces and, even if driven hard into corners, resists wallowing and pitching. It doesn't get floaty at high speeds and it stands up well to cross-winds on the motorway. For those who have carsickness-prone passengers, it's probably a better bet than many rivals, as it always feels planted to the road without getting rough or harsh-riding. And apart from intrusive wind-noise - thought to be down to a problem with the windscreen seals of the cars on the launch - the Galaxy is quiet and well insulated, too.

As with most Fords, and mainstream models in this price-range, you do have to pay extra for a full complement of storage and stowage options (consoles, under-seat storage areas, roof-mounted boxes, pockets etc) and other accessories.

Basic spec levels for the UK are the familiar LX, Zetec and Ghia and you have to opt for the Zetec to get air conditioning and parking sensors. Ghia versions come with the usual posher trim (including a tasteful dark fake wood strip across the dash), plus full overhead console, electric/heated door mirrors, cruise control, automatic headlamps and rain-sensing wipers. The Ghia X-Pack option adds full leather trim and panoramic fixed glass roof.

Further options include metallic paint, a powered tailgate, self-levelling suspension, xenon headlights, a heat-reflecting windscreen, satellite navigation, sun blinds and Bluetooth phone kit.