Sales of the Ford Galaxy minivan, a representative of the second generation of the model, have started at dealerships. Shortly before that, its "relative" — the Ford S-MAX — also reached dealers.
2006 Ford Galaxy
© Photo: Sergey Krestov, 5 Koleso
Technically, the Galaxy and S-Max are twin brothers. The differences lie in a softer suspension, a stretched body, and some exterior details. Let us recall that the predecessor also had its own "clones."
The exterior of the new model is executed in the so-called "kinetic" style, which is familiar to us from the current Mondeo. It is based on many straight lines and sharp edges. Thanks to this styling, the five-meter van does not look bulky at all. The sporty appearance is enhanced by a wide air intake in the front bumper, angular headlights, and chrome moldings on the windows and door handles.
Inside, the same "kinetics" reigns — strict and even somewhat pedantic. The plastic of the massive front panel feels like velvet to the touch. The quality of finishing materials is top-notch: this applies to door cards, "aluminum" or wood inserts, and seat upholstery.
The front seats have a huge range of adjustments, allowing a person of any build to sit comfortably. Moreover, you can choose the type of seating: high, "van-like," or low, almost like in a sedan. The rear two rows are also not deprived of settings: the seats move longitudinally, and the backrests change their angle. It is worth mentioning the niches for small items — there are many of them. Four are located right on the ceiling, and a whole archive can easily fit in them.
The coziness in the cabin is complemented by a well-thought-out ventilation system. The supply of warm or cold air to rear passengers can be turned off with one button. The aerodynamics of the flows are tuned so that the windows do not fog up even in the most nasty weather.
The ergonomics of the driver's seat are very competent. The abundance of buttons on the central console is not intimidating, because it is not necessary to use them at all — most functions can be controlled via the keys on the steering wheel.
On the highway, the Galaxy resembles an express train that steadily follows a given track. The acceleration dynamics (11.2 s to 100 km/h) and top speed are provided by a gasoline engine with 145 hp, working in tandem with a 5-speed manual gearbox. No other gasoline units are currently offered for the Galaxy. Among diesels, two 1.8-liter options (100 and 125 hp) and one 2.0-liter (143 hp) are available. But fans of automatic transmissions will have a hard time — the lineup only includes a 5- or 6-speed manual.
Visibility deserves praise. The wipers, working in opposite directions, clean the maximum area of the windshield. The rear-view mirrors are also excellent: their triangular ends noticeably expand the viewing angle.
2006 Ford Galaxy
© Photo: Sergey Krestov, 5 Koleso
It so happened that my test of the Galaxy coincided with a trip to the dacha. The last stretch of the road ran through a plowed field that had only recently been frozen. Under a thin crust of ice hid mud slurry, in which any passenger car would get stuck. Going around was far, so I decided to take a risk. To my surprise, the minivan behaved almost like an SUV, confidently grinding through potholes, bumps, and mud.
The Galaxy was created as a comfortable family car, so its suspension is soft. The price for this is noticeable body rolls in corners. However, the car cannot be called wobbly: it clearly obeys the steering wheel and conveys all information about the road to the driver. Feedback is excellent.
Cooperative
The first Galaxy appeared 11 years ago. At that time, three identical cars were produced at one plant: Volkswagen called it Sharan, Seat — Alhambra, and Ford — Galaxy. The differences were only in the headlights and radiator grille. Now the paths of the "twins" diverge. The American concern, ahead of competitors, went its own way, while VW is developing its own minivan. The appearance of the new Sharan is expected by the end of the year. Moreover, the Germans are again not working alone, but have attracted DaimlerChrysler to the project.
Throughout its history, the Galaxy underwent restyling only twice — in 1997 and 1999. A radical update, in fact the appearance of a new model, occurred only last season.
Driving
The Galaxy allows you to drive fast, but the "bus-like" habits have not gone away. With sharp maneuvers, rolls and body sway are noticeable.
Interior
The finishing materials are practical and pleasant to the touch.
Comfort
Huge space and many adjustments make long trips truly enjoyable.
Safety
The body has special zones of programmable deformation. All seats are equipped with seat belts. The cabin has nine airbags, including one that protects the driver's legs in a collision.
Price
The base version of the Ford Galaxy is priced at $25,900. For a spacious and practical car with a rich list of options, this is a good starting point.
Ford Galaxy
Dimensions — 4641x1810x1759 mm
Engine — gasoline, 2996 cm³, 145 hp/6000 rpm
Transmission — manual, 5-speed
Dynamics — max 194 km/h; 11.2 s to 100 km/h
Competitors — Citroen C8, Peugeot 807, Renault Espace, VW Sharan.
+ Spacious interior, excellent visibility, and a great sense of dimensions.
– Height difference when folding the third row of seats, "bus-like" habits during sharp maneuvering.
Our opinion:
The Ford Galaxy has stepped into a new, higher class. This business van is ideal for business trips. It will become a reliable corporate partner for trips to the airport or negotiations. The Galaxy will also cope well with the role of a family car. But as a "truck" it is not very good: you won't get a flat floor with the seats folded. In other words, the car is created for comfortable transportation of people.