Ford Galaxy (2015 – 2023) Review

Ford Galaxy (2015 – 2023) At A Glance

3/5
Honest John Overall Rating
Don’t be put off by the fact that the Galaxy is the default choice for private hire firms and airport taxi operators. This simply highlights the practicality, flexibility and efficiency of the car.

+As big and as practical as ever, excellent refinement and ride quality, plenty of modern technology, affordable running costs, five star Euro NCAP rating.

-Expensive particularly in upper trim levels, options add even more cost, S-MAX is cheaper.

New prices start from £39,940
Insurance Groups are between 17–28
On average it achieves 70% of the official MPG figure

We could mount a strong case for the Ford Galaxy being the perfect seven-seat MPV. Over many years, Ford has honed the Galaxy to within an inch of perfection, making it the ideal choice if you’re after an MPV with seven proper seats. Not five seats with a couple of cramped excuses for seats in the third row. A proper seven-seater. 

Ford has a habit of building cars that could stake a claim for being the brand generic in their respective segments. Fiesta, Focus, Mondeo, Transit, even the Mustang. Then there’s this: the Ford Galaxy. It is, without question, one of the best seven-seat MPVs you can buy.

Launched in 2015, and facelifted in 2019, the Galaxy is a genuine seven-seater. That’s seven seats for seven adults, not seats for five people and a couple of grumbling children in the very back. Little wonder the Galaxy has become the choice of private hire firms across the land.

It’s not in the least bit exciting, but if you want some flair to go with your seven-seater – at the expense of some practicality – the S-Max is a ready-made alternative. Not that we’d steer you away from the Galaxy, because this is the kind of vehicle designed to make family life as stress-free as possible.

Even in seven-seat mode, the boot offers 300 litres of luggage space, which is roughly the same amount you’ll find in a spacious supermini or a small family hatchback. There’s a massive 1,301 litres available in five-seat mode, or a cavernous 2,339 litres if you don’t need the five rear seats. Throw into the mix three Isofix points, plenty of storage bins and pockets, plus the ability to slide the middle row of seats back and forth, and you’ve got the hallmarks of the perfect family transport.

It gets better, because the cabin has a surprisingly upmarket feel, while even the entry-level Zetec trim packs a generous level of standard equipment. You could find that you don’t need to upgrade to the Titanium trim.

While it’s not as nice to drive as the Ford S-Max, you’ll appreciate the lofty driving position and the comfortable ride. There’s very little wind and road noise, even on a motorway, while the fact that it’s based on the same platform as the Mondeo means that it doesn’t turn to blancmange when you reach a corner.

The petrol engines were ditched as part of the 2019 facelift, so you’re left with a 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine available in a choice of outputs. The 150hp version should be adequate for your needs, but a more powerful 190hp version and all-wheel-drive are available if you need them. We think the 150hp engine in Zetec trim and the eight-speed automatic transmission is the Galaxy range sweet-spot.

Everything is shaping up to be a perfect review, then? Almost, but not quite. The dull styling lets the side down, as does the drab cabin. There’s also the image, with the Galaxy associated with private hire firms and taxi operators.

If such things matter little to you, then you’ll find much to love about the Ford Galaxy. Why cram your family into a ‘5+2’ SUV or MPV when the Galaxy allows everyone to enjoy plenty of headroom and legroom? You’ll also be the most popular person on the street when your neighbours need a lift to the airport… 

Looking for a second opinon? Why not read heycar's Ford Galaxy review

Ford Galaxy (2015 – 2023) handling and engines

Driving Rating
The ride quality is excellent, with the Galaxy cushioning you from all but the worst road imperfections.

Ford Galaxy (2015 – 2023): Handling and ride quality

The Galaxy is based on the Ford Mondeo, so it’s actually pretty good to drive. Not as good as the S-MAX, but good for an MPV. The big difference is that the Galaxy has been configured for comfort, which is something you’ll notice as soon as you set off.

Sure, it feels top-heavy and unwieldy when cornering, but none of your passengers will thank you for taking a bend at anything other than a safe speed.

You sit high in the Galaxy, which gives you a commanding view of the road ahead, with all-round visibility aided by the huge expanse of glass. It’s a bit echoey in the cabin, but this is true of many MPVs. Be careful of the steering, which is a bit inconsistent. An initial weighty feel gives way to lightness, which makes cornering a tad tricky.

Ford Galaxy (2015 – 2023): Engines

Although the Galaxy launched with a good choice of engines, today you’re limited to two outputs of the same 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine. The 150PS version is adequate for most people, offering a reasonable level of performance to go with the excellent economy.

We’d only consider upgrading to the 190PS version if you intend to travel with seven adults and their luggage. The more powerful engine comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard, which suits the relaxed nature of the Galaxy. The six-speed manual gearbox on the 150hp version is fine, but we’d recommend spending extra on the eight-speed auto.

Earlier engines included a wild 240PS 2.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, which offered impressive performance but slightly scary fuel economy. The alternative 210hp twin-turbocharged diesel offered similar performance with improved efficiency.

Overall, the 2.0-litre EcoBlue engine and eight-speed transmission, both introduced in 2018, are superior to the units they replaced.

Ford Galaxy (2015 – 2023): Safety

The Galaxy received a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating in 2015. Standard safety kit includes multiple airbags, Curve Control to counter understeer, electronic stability control with trailer-sway control and hill-start assist, active rollover protection and three Isofix points.

All models also come with cruise control, pre-collision assist with pedestrian and cyclist detection, front and rear parking sensors, and traffic sign recognition. The Titanium model also gets a lane-keeping system, which includes lane-keeping assist, lane-keeping alert, automatic high beam, driver alert and automatic wipers.

Ford Galaxy (2015 – 2023): Towing

The current Galaxy offers a maximum towing capacity of 2000kg. If you intend to tow anything with a Ford Galaxy, we’d recommend the optional self-levelling suspension, although this can’t be fitted in conjunction with all-wheel-drive or a retractable tow bar.

Engine MPG 0-62 CO2
1.5 EcoBoost 160 43 mpg 10.0 s 149 g/km
1.5 EcoBoost 165 38 mpg 10.0 s 170 g/km
2.0 EcoBoost 240 36 mpg 8.6 s 180 g/km
2.0 TDCi 120 55–57 mpg 13.6 s 129–135 g/km
2.0 TDCi 150 55–57 mpg 10.9 s 129–133 g/km
2.0 TDCi 150 Automatic 53 mpg 10.9 s 138–140 g/km
2.0 TDCi 150 AWD 49 mpg 12.2 s 155 g/km
2.0 TDCi 150 Powershift 54 mpg 10.9 s 139 g/km
2.0 TDCi 180 57 mpg 9.8 s 129 g/km
2.0 TDCi 180 Powershift 52 mpg 9.6 s 139 g/km
2.0 TDCi 180 Powershift AWD 49 mpg 10.6 s 149 g/km
2.0 TDCi 190 55 mpg 9.8 s 133 g/km
2.0 TDCi 190 Automatic 54 mpg 9.6 s 134–136 g/km
2.0 TDCi 190 Automatic AWD 46 mpg 10.6 s 156–159 g/km
2.0 TDCi 210 Powershift 51 mpg 8.9 s 144 g/km
2.0 TDCi 240 Automatic 46 mpg 8.9 s 158 g/km
2.5 Hybrid - 10.0 s 148 g/km
TDCi 150 AWD 52 mpg 12.2 s 139 g/km

Real MPG average for the Ford Galaxy (2015 – 2023)

RealMPG

Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.

Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.

Average performance

70%

Real MPG

23–51 mpg

MPGs submitted

135

Ford Galaxy (2015 – 2023) interior

Interior Rating
We’d stop short of calling the Galaxy premium, but it’s more upmarket than you might think.
Dimensions
Length 4848–4853 mm
Width 2137 mm
Height 1747–1770 mm
Wheelbase 2850 mm

Full specifications

Ford Galaxy (2015 – 2023): Practicality

The Ford Galaxy offers seating for seven. Don’t be fooled by many of the supposedly seven-seat SUVs you might fancy – they’re best described as ‘5+2’ SUVs. Even the Ford S-Max – the Galaxy’s racy sibling – is more of a 5+2 MPV than a true seven-seater.

There are three individual seats in the middle, with each one able to slide back and forth independently to give anyone travelling in the third row a little more legroom. You will also find three Isofix points along the middle, which is ideal if you need to fit three child seats.

The boot is massive in five-seat mode, but remains respectable even when all seven seats are in use. You’ll also find plenty of storage pockets, trays and cubbies, including one of the largest central storage bins we’ve seen in a car. If practicality is your top priority, the Galaxy scores top marks.

Ford Galaxy (2015 – 2023): Quality and finish

The interior is well screwed together, with a sense that it has been built to withstand a lifetime of abuse at the hands of taxi passengers and holidaymakers on their way to the airport. If it can handle that, it can tackle whatever your children throw at it.

The Titanium model adds ambient lighting, keyless start and go and a 10.1-inch digital instrument panel, while the Titanium Lux pack features an electric tailgate and heated leather seats with eight-way electric adjustment.

Ford Galaxy (2015 – 2023): Infotainment

As part of the 2019 facelift, Ford upgraded the eight-inch colour touchscreen infotainment system software to Sync 3, which is superior to the old Sync 2. The display is dated and there are too many sub-menus, but the top menu is clear and logical, while the voice control works well.

All versions feature eight speakers, Bluetooth, voice control, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, two USB ports and emergency call, but only the Titanium trim gets sat-nav.

Ford Galaxy (2015 – 2023) value for money

Value for Money Rating
Used prices start from around £10,000. For this budget you’re looking at a 2015 car, but make sure you buy the current Mk3 Galaxy, rather than the less desirable Mk2.

Ford Galaxy (2015 – 2023): Prices

The Ford Galaxy pricing structure is easy to understand, primarily because there are only two trim levels.

You’ll pay £33,550 for a Galaxy in Zetec trim and power sourced from the 150hp version of the 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine. The eight-speed automatic transmission commands a £2,000 premium, increasing the cost to £35,635.

There’s more choice available by opting for the Titanium trim, which costs £35,250 in 150hp and manual guise. The automatic version costs £37,185, but you also have the option to upgrade to the 190hp version of the 2.0 diesel engine. It costs £38,135 with front-wheel drive or £39,520 for the all-wheel-drive version.

A Galaxy with the excellent 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine will cost upwards of £17,000 and have the remainder of Ford’s three-year warranty left.

A post-facelift car will cost significantly more, but £22,000 still represents a considerable saving over the price when it was new. The most you should pay for a new or nearly-new Galaxy is around £29,000, as Ford dealers are keen to offer good discounts on new cars. A £5,000 discount on a Titanium model isn’t out of the question.

Competitive PCP offers are available, but you should shop around for the best deal. A Galaxy Titanium 2.0 EcoBlue 150 could cost £325 a month over three years, but this is after a hefty deposit of £10,500.

Ford Galaxy (2015 – 2023): Running Costs

The 150PS version of the 2.0-litre EcoBlue engine could deliver between 45.6mpg and 46.3mpg when paired with a six-speed manual gearbox. This drops to 43.5mpg if you opt for the eight-speed automatic transmission.

You should achieve the same 43.5mpg from the 190hp version, but all-wheel-drive will put a small dent in the fuel economy, which drops to 40.4mpg. These are based on the latest, and more realistic, WLTP test figures.

Figures for the earlier engines were based on the less reliable NEDC test, so these should be taken with a pinch of salt. Use Real MPG for a more accurate representative of what you should achieve.

Insurance groups range from 17 to 31, so getting cover shouldn’t be expensive. Opt for the Zetec trim and/or the 150PS version of the 2.0 EcoBlue diesel engine to get the lowest quote. 

Buy a new Ford Galaxy in 2020 and you’ll pay between £540 and £870 in ‘showroom tax’, but the cost will be included in the purchase price. From year two, all versions drop to the standard £150 rate of Vehicle Excise Duty (VED).

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Ford Galaxy (2015 – 2023) models and specs

The Ford Galaxy isn’t going to win any awards for flair or excitement, but if you’re after a practical and flexible seven-seater, there are few better alternatives. It’s not as glamorous, stylish or as tech-laden as a modern seven-seat SUV, but comfort and space are two of life’s little luxuries. You’ll get these in abundance in the Galaxy.

We’d argue that the Galaxy 2.0 EcoBlue 150 Zetec with an eight-speed transmission is the range sweet-spot. The Zetec trim covers the basics required for family transport while keeping the list price in check.

Dimensions
Length 4848–4853 mm
Width 2137 mm
Height 1747–1770 mm
Wheelbase 2850 mm
Miscellaneous
Kerb Weight 1708–2019 kg
Boot Space 1206–2339 L
Warranty 3 years / 60000 miles
Servicing 10000–18000 miles
Costs
List Price £39,940
Insurance Groups 17–28
Road Tax Bands Alternative fuel, F–I
Official MPG 35.8–56.5 mpg
Euro NCAP Safety Ratings
Adult -
Child -
Pedestrian -
Overall -

Currently on sale

Large MPV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
Titanium 190 S/C F1.1kWh Battery Auto Start/Stop 5dr £39,940 - 10.0 s

On sale until May 2022

Large MPV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
2.0 EcoBlue 190 Titanium Auto AWD 5dr £39,520 - 10.6 s
Titanium TDCi 150 EcoBlue Auto Start/Stop 5dr - - -
Titanium TDCi 150 EcoBlue Start/Stop 5dr - - -
Titanium TDCi 190 EcoBlue Auto Start/Stop 5dr - - -
Zetec TDCi 150 EcoBlue Start/Stop 5dr - - -

On sale until August 2021

Large MPV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
Zetec TDCi 150 EcoBlue Auto Start/Stop 5dr - - -

On sale until December 2020

Large MPV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
2.0 EcoBlue 150 Titanium Auto 5dr - 53.3 mpg 10.9 s
2.0 EcoBlue 150ps Titanium 5dr - 55.4 mpg 10.9 s
2.0 EcoBlue 150ps Zetec 5dr - 55.4 mpg 10.9 s
2.0 EcoBlue 150ps Zetec Auto 5dr - 53.3 mpg 10.9 s
2.0 EcoBlue 190 Titanium Auto 5dr - 54.3 mpg 9.6 s

On sale until April 2020

Large MPV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
1.5 EcoBoost 165 Titanium X 5dr £35,495 37.7 mpg 10.0 s
1.5 EcoBoost 165ps Titanium 5dr £32,395 37.7 mpg 10.0 s
1.5 EcoBoost 165ps Zetec 5dr £29,945 37.7 mpg 10.0 s
2.0TDCi Ecoblue 120ps Zetec 5dr £31,795 55.4 mpg 13.6 s
2.0TDCi Ecoblue 150 Titanium AWD 5dr £35,695 48.7 mpg 12.2 s
2.0TDCi Ecoblue 150ps Titanium X 5dr £37,045 55.4 mpg 10.9 s
2.0TDCi Ecoblue 150ps Titanium X Auto 5dr £38,545 53.3 mpg 10.9 s
2.0TDCi Ecoblue 190 Titanium X Auto AWD 5dr £41,195 46.3 mpg 10.6 s
2.0TDCi Ecoblue 190ps Titanium 5dr £34,945 55.4 mpg 9.8 s
2.0TDCi Ecoblue 190ps Titanium X 5dr £38,045 55.4 mpg 9.8 s
2.0TDCi Ecoblue 190ps Titanium X Auto 5dr £39,545 54.3 mpg 9.6 s
2.0TDCi Ecoblue 240ps Titanium X Auto 5dr £41,045 46.3 mpg 8.9 s

On sale until October 2018

Large MPV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
1.5SCTi EcoBoost 160 Titanium 5dr £30,450 43.4 mpg 10.0 s
1.5SCTi EcoBoost 160ps Zetec 5dr £28,000 43.4 mpg 10.0 s
2.0SCTi EcoBoost 240 Titanium X Auto 5dr £37,475 35.8 mpg 8.6 s
2.0TDCi 120ps Zetec 5dr £29,690 56.5 mpg 13.6 s
2.0TDCi 150 Titanium X Powershift 5dr £36,860 54.3 mpg 10.9 s
2.0TDCi 150ps Titanium 5dr £31,990 56.5 mpg 10.9 s
2.0TDCi 150ps Titanium AWD 5dr £33,710 52.3 mpg 12.2 s
2.0TDCi 150ps Titanium Powershift 5dr £33,760 54.3 mpg 10.9 s
2.0TDCi 150ps Titanium X 5dr £35,090 56.5 mpg 10.9 s
2.0TDCi 150ps Zetec 5dr £30,440 56.5 mpg 10.9 s
2.0TDCi 150ps Zetec Powershift 5dr £32,210 54.3 mpg 10.9 s
2.0TDCi 180 Titanium X Powershift 5dr £37,610 52.3 mpg 9.6 s
2.0TDCi 180ps Titanium 5dr £32,740 56.5 mpg 9.8 s
2.0TDCi 180ps Titanium Powershift 5dr £34,510 52.3 mpg 9.6 s
2.0TDCi 180ps Titanium X 5dr £35,840 56.5 mpg 9.8 s
2.0TDCi 180ps Titanium X Powershift AWD 5dr £38,960 48.7 mpg 10.6 s
2.0TDCi 210 Titanium X Powershift 5dr £38,310 51.4 mpg 8.9 s

Model History

April 2015

New Ford Galaxy revealed

On same wheelbase as S-MAX, sharing what has become the company's trademark 'Aston Martin' grille and, with its greater height, offering room for seven adults to travel in comfort.

Ford claims a "segment-first feature" of electrically operated 2nd and 3rd-row seats that can be raised or dropped individually at the push of a button. Front seat passengers have the option of massaging Ford Multi-Contour Seats, while integral link rear suspension that offers a smoother, quieter ride for rear seat passengers.

Like the S-MAX, an Intelligent Speed Limiter, can be activated to recognise speed limit signs and adjust the speed of the car accordingly. Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection reduces the severity of some frontal collisions involving vehicles and pedestrians, or helps drivers avoid some impacts altogether. Glare-Free Highbeam technology of adaptive LED headlamps detects vehicles ahead and fades out light that could dazzle oncoming drivers, while retaining maximum illumination for other areas. Ford Adaptive Steering technology adjusts the steering ratio according to speed to optimise manoeuvrability and precision. While Ford's latest fuel-efficient diesel engines, include the new 210PS bi-turbo 2.0-litre TDCi.

Importantly, instead of the 6-speed 6DCT450 dual wet clutch Poweshift transmission previously fitted, for the 2.0 EcoBoost SCTI 240 engine, Ford switched over to the 6F35 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission which it developed jointly with General Motors. This transmission was originally released in 2008 in the 2009 Ford Escape and 2009 Mercury Mariner.

A flat load floor makes it easier to load large or bulky items, and the ability to slide and recline second- and third-row seats individually means seating and loadspace combinations are as easy to tailor to the school run as for trips to the airport. Beneath the load deck floor the new Cargo Management System offers 20 litres of hidden storage, and helps to carry taller items.

Passengers can store 1.5-litre drink bottles in door bins, and under-seat storage provides easy access for everything from laptop computers to books or snacks. Further stowage is available in the instrument panel top, and a media storage area for mobile phones and audio devices is incorporated into the centre stack. Parents will appreciate a standard child-watch mirror, positioned to offer a wide-angle view of the passenger seats.

Second- and third-row passengers also benefit from up to 10mm more headroom than in the 2006-2015 Galaxy and the third-row seat offers more space than key competitors, with up to 40mm more headroom. Elbow and shoulder-room are optimised by retaining the traditional swing-open rear door design. Third-row occupants also can make themselves feel more at home with their own armrest storage bins and cup-holders.

One touch access to the third row is provided with easy-entry second-row seats that tilt and slide forward in a single action, and a recessed floor design that makes getting in and out of the car easier for passengers. A double seal helps the inner panel stay clean and reduces the risk of passengers dirtying their clothes by brushing against the car exterior when getting in or out.

Rear seat passengers can select their own climate settings with a dedicated climate system and their own controls. The interior is also kept cool in sunny weather with solar-tinted glass that blocks ultra-violet light and heat from the cabin.

Ford's integral link rear suspension delivers the compliance required for greater comfort, while retaining lateral stiffness for enhanced steering and handling. Also introduced to all-new Mondeo and all-new S-MAX, it allows the wheel to move further rearwards on impact with bumps. This delivers improved impact absorption for a smoother ride and reduced noise levels. The integral link rear suspension design features aluminium lower control arms that reduce weight by 2 kilogrammes. Aluminium front knuckles with enclosed wheel bearings improve stiffness for sharper responses. The 2015 Galaxy also is offered with self-levelling rear suspension that maintains optimal ride height for comfort and handling.

Dampers and springs are tuned specifically for Galaxy, and the model continues to offer Continuous Control Damping that helps tailor suspension with "comfort," "normal" and "sport" chassis settings. Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) also enables steering weight to adapt to match these settings.

The all-new Galaxy also is among the first vehicles to benefit from Ford Adaptive Steering technology that makes the seven-seater easier to manoeuvre in town, and deliver greater steering precision at higher speeds. The introduction of EPAS also enables Torque Steer Compensation and Active Nibble Compensation systems that cancel out unwanted feedback, forces and vibration.

Sound-deadening material within the underbody shields, wheel arch liners and front and rear doors, and more extensive use of closed-section body structure components contribute to a quieter cabin. Acoustic glass for the windshield and side windows also helps reduce wind noise and environmental noise.

2015 Galaxy technologies also make parking easier: Perpendicular Parking can detect and reverse the car hands-free into spaces alongside other cars in the same way that Active Park Assist helps drivers to parallel park. Park-Out Assist helps drivers exit a parallel parking space, the system operating the steering while the driver operates the accelerator and brake. Side Parking Aid delivers audible alerts and on-screen distance indicators to obstacles around the vehicle. Cross Traffic Alert warns drivers reversing out of a parking space of vehicles that may soon be crossing behind them. Front Split View Camera enhances the driver's field of vision when pulling out of a parking space or junction with a 180 degree camera system installed at the front of the Galaxy, and displays the image on the 8-inch high-resolution touchscreen in the centre console

Further driver assistance technologies offered with the 2015 Galaxy include Blind Spot Information System, Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Keeping Alert, Lane Keeping Aid and Driver Alert.

Ford SYNC 2 with Voice Control enables drivers to operate phone, entertainment, climate and navigation systems using simple conversational language. A useful tool for family road trips or holidays, drivers can even bring up a list of local restaurants by saying: "I'm hungry" or search for attractions and points of interest by name.

SYNC 2 also features Emergency Assistance, which directly connects the vehicle occupants to local emergency services operators after an accident, in the correct language for the region.

The Hands-Free Liftgate can be opened or closed using a kicking motion beneath the rear bumper when hands are full or congtrolling toddlers. Further convenience is delivered with standard power heated door mirrors for frosty mornings and electric parking brake with Hill Launch Assist.

The 2015 Galaxy is available with Ford's new 210PS 2.0-litre TDCi Bi-turbo diesel engine that offers enhanced responsiveness and 450Nm of torque from 2,000rpm.

Ford's enhanced 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engine with single variable geometry turbocharger technology is offered with 120PS, 150PS and 180PS, featuring a revised engine block, new cylinder-head and fuel injection designs, and lean NO X trap exhaust after-treatment system for cleaner emissions.

Petrol engine options include Ford's fuel-efficient 160PS 1.5-litre EcoBoost and 240PS 2.0-litre EcoBoost. The entire Galaxy engine range meets Euro Stage VI emissions standards.

CO 2 emissions and fuel efficiency enhanced using Smart Regenerative Charging, which selectively engages the alternator and charges the battery when the vehicle is coasting and braking to recapture energy that would otherwise be lost - reducing engine load for less fuel usage; Auto-Start-Stop, which automatically shuts down the engine when the vehicle is at idle and restarts the engine when the driver wants to move off; Active Grille Shutter, which improves aerodynamics and optimises airflow for engine cooling

The 2015 Galaxy has second-row seat side airbags, in addition to the driver and front-passenger, driver-knee, and first-, second- and third-row curtain airbags. Second-row seatbelt pre-tensioners with load limiters enhance rear passenger safety. There are seatbelt minders for all three rows.

MyKey technology enables owners to programme a key that can inhibit incoming phone calls; restrict top speed; prevent deactivation of driver assistance and safety features; reduce audio system maximum volume, and disable the audio system altogether if occupants are not using safety belts.

Vehicle stability also is enhanced with Curve Control and Roll Stability Control systems that adjust engine torque and braking to help drivers maintain control. Pedestrian safety is further enhanced with concealed wipers designed to limit injuries from head impacts.

September 2015

Ford’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) now available in the Galaxy.

September 2018

New engines for Ford Galaxy

Now available with Ford’s 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine. 6-speed dual wet clutch Getrag Powershift transmission replaced with an advanced new 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission controlled using a stylish and ergonomic Rotary Gear Shift Dial instead of fore/aft selector lever.

By year end, both Ford S-MAX and Galaxy ranges will add 1.5 EcoBoost 165PS petrol engines to their powertrain line-ups.

Available for the Ford S-MAX and Galaxy with 120PS, 150PS and 190PS power outputs – and with 240PS in bi-turbo form – the 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine delivers the power, torque and driving performance of a larger capacity engine.

A six-speed manual transmission is also offered for S-MAX and Galaxy models, and both vehicles can be equipped with Ford’s Intelligent All Wheel Drive technology, which measures how the car’s wheels are gripping the road surface and can adjust torque delivery up to 50/50 between the front and rear wheels in under 20 milliseconds – twenty times quicker than it takes to blink. The system seamlessly transitions torque between all four wheels and provides a more secure footing on the road especially in slippery conditions.

The eight-speed automatic transmission enables ACC, which helps the S-MAX and Galaxy maintain a comfortable driving distance from vehicles ahead, to be enhanced with Stop & Go, which brings the vehicle to a complete halt in stop-start traffic, and automatically pulls away if the stopping duration is less than three seconds. For stopping durations greater than three seconds, the driver can push a steering wheel button or gently apply the accelerator pull away.

Both models’ BLIS technology is now able to warn sooner of vehicles approaching the driver’s blind spot at higher closing speeds. Using new Variable Rear Range functionality, BLIS can now detect vehicles up to 18 metres behind.

In addition, the new Ford ClearView Front Wiper System helps drivers clear a dirty windscreen more effectively using multiple washer-jets mounted within the wiper arm – improving visibility in challenging driving conditions while using screen-wash fluid more efficiently.

For drivers of right-hand drive models, the electric parking brake switch in both models is relocated to the driver’s side of the centre console, for more comfortable deployment. Drivers can also view vehicle information more clearly with a 4-inch, LCD, colour instrument cluster display as standard. A sophisticated 10-inch, customisable digital screen with animated analogue-style speedometer and rev-counter is also available.

October 2019

Ford Galaxy updated for 2020 model year

New Ford Galaxy models are now more easily distinguished with unique front-end designs. FordPass Connect on-board modem technology is also now offered on the Galaxy for the first time. FordPass Connect turns the models into mobile WiFi hotspots with connectivity for up to 10 devices, and enables new Local Hazard Information that can inform the driver of hazardous situations in the road ahead before they become visible to the driver or vehicle sensors.

The updated Galaxy features a revised upper front facia and unique combinations of grille and lower fascia designs for more distinctive style. Highlights include:

  • Bright chrome upper grille and foglamp surrounds
  • A unique honeycomb upper grille with a black surround
  • Unique “flying V” signature upper grille with a satin chrome surround

New optional 19” 5x2 Premium Luster Nickel alloy wheels are available.

New 18-way adjustable driver and front passenger seats available for the Galaxy Zetec and Titanium variants can help provide relief for back pain-sufferers on the road, having achieved recognition from the AGR’s independent testing committee of medical experts.

To obtain the AGR seal, the seat must be able to adapt to the person in their sitting position, rather than the person adapting their position to the seat. Adjustment includes height, length and inclination, in addition to back, neck and thigh support. The four-way lumbar adjustment is controlled electronically from a switch on the seat’s side.

In addition to enabling WiFi hotspot capability, optional FordPass Connect technology allows a range of convenient features via the FordPass mobile app, including Vehicle Locator; Vehicle Status that checks fuel levels, alarm status, oil life and more; and remote Door Lock Unlock.

New Local Hazard Information functionality – enabled by the FordPass Connect on-board modem – can inform drivers of a hazardous situation on the road ahead, even if the incident is not visible due to a bend in the road or other vehicles.

Local Hazard Information notifications are delivered independent of sat-nav, based on up-to-the minute data provided by HERE Technologies – sourced from local authorities, emergency services, and driving data from other vehicles connected to “the cloud”.

Notifications of hazards including road works; broken down vehicles; animals, pedestrians and objects in the carriageway; and even hazardous driving conditions are delivered to the vehicle over-the-air, giving drivers advanced warning of developing situations beyond their field of vision.

Available for the Ford Galaxy with 150PS and 190PS power outputs, Ford says the 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine delivers the power, torque and driving performance of a larger capacity engine alongside the fuel efficiency and low CO2 emissions synonymous with a smaller engine capacity.

The available eight-speed automatic transmission – controlled using a stylish and ergonomic rotary gear shift dial – has been engineered to further optimise fuel efficiency and deliver responsive performance and smooth, swift gearshifts. A six-speed manual transmission is also offered for Galaxy models.

Available advanced Galaxy comfort and convenience technologies include ACC with Stop & Go. Enabled by the eight-speed automatic transmission, the system helps drivers maintain a comfortable driving distance from vehicles ahead, including bringing the vehicle to a complete halt in stop-start traffic and automatically pulling away if the stopping duration is less than three seconds. In line with their large car Ford Mondeo stable mate, the updated Galaxy also offers Pre-Collision Assist as standard. If a potential collision is detected, an alert sound is emitted and a warning message displays in the message center. If the driver’s response is not sufficient, Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) will precharge to provide full responsiveness when the brakes are applied – culminating in brakes being applied in the absence of any corrective action.

Ford’s SYNC 3 communications and entertainment system is also offered, enabling Galaxy drivers to control audio, navigation and climate functions plus connected smartphones using simple voice commands. Supported by an 8-inch colour touchscreen that can be operated using pinch and swipe gestures, SYNC 3 is compatible with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ at no additional cost.

The enhanced Galaxy models are available to order now from £33,210.

February 2021

Ford Galaxy Hybrid priced from £38,695

The new Ford Galaxy Hybrid is now available to order, powered by the same 190PS petrol-electric powertrain as the S-MAX Hybrid.

The spacious Galaxy Hybrid continues to offer the full practicality of the rest of the Galaxy line-up, including more than one metre of head room for first- and second-row passengers and all three second-row seats having Isofix points for securely fitting child safety seats, plus 2339 litres of cargo volume behind the first row of seats and 300 litres cargo volume with all seven seats in place.

What to watch out for

30-09-2016:

Report from reader that Ford r ecall on LED headlights (26-6-2016 R/2016/113) did not work. After recall software update owner suffers really poor output from the lights. Slow to react and dark patches when following a car.

18-09-2017:

Vibration reported from 2nd gear during fairly hard acceleration of July 2017 Ford Galaxy 1.5 EcoBoost petrol.

06-02-2019:

Owner of 61k mile 2015 Ford Galaxy 2.0 SCTi Ecoboost Powershift told by Ford dealer that his car has a DPS6 Powershift transmission that does not require an oil and filter change every 3 years or 38,000 kilometres. In fact, the 2015 Galaxy has a 6F35 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission. The DPS6 is the 6-speed dry clutch Powershift used in ther Fiesta and Focus.

02-05-2019:

Report of of dash warnings of 'Tyre Pressure Monitor Malfunction' and 'Low Brake Fluid' in 2016 Ford Galaxy SCTi Titanium Ecoboost. Owner checked pressure and brake fluid level and all were okay, then left the car overnight and in the morning the battery was totally flat. Called out the AA who charged the battery and ran some diagnostic checks. They confirmed that there was a 'Body Control Module' error, but were not able to diagnose this further. They also confirmed that there was a big draw on the current - most likely from the lighting circuit – but also verified that no lights or electrical items had been left on. Once the battery had been recharged, there was an audible alarm when owner tried to get out of the car, coupled with a headlights symbol on the dash, indicating that the lights were on when they definitely not.
Shortly after purchasing the car, owner had an Autowatch Ghost immobiliser fitted. The installer is very experienced and said the installation is not connected with the problem.

What does the Ford Galaxy (2015 – 2023) cost?