While Nissan on Monday added two seats to create its seven-seat Qashqai +2, Ford on Tuesday enlarged its S-Max range by removing two seats to create the new five-seat Trend version “for customers who want more space instead of more seats”.
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The model was launched at the Beijing motor show with 2.3-litre petrol engine and six-speed automatic transmission. Seven-seat Ghia and Flagship versions remain on sale.
“Not everyone needs seven seats. Introducing a five-seat variant to the range makes perfect sense and illustrates Ford’s ability to provide Chinese customers with cars and features they want,” said, Changan Ford Sales Company general manager Nigel Harris.
The new variant was tailored to meet Chinese market demand. Minus third row seats, the five-seater has 185 litres more cargo space.
Rear parking sensors and footlights have also been added to all 2008 China models. The Ghia and Flagship versions have also gained a front passenger seat belt reminder and seat-mounted side airbags.
