Ford has launched the new B-MAX in Ireland at a starting price of €19,170, writes Trish Whelan.
The small MPV is available with 1.0, 1.4 and 1.6 auto petrol engines and a new 1.5 diesel. Tax bands range from A-C, and there are two grades, with prices topping out at €26,430.
A pillarless Easy Access Door System provides unobstructed entry and exit with hinged front doors and sliding rear doors integrating the central body pillars.
The car is also the first European Ford to offer the company’s SYNC communications integration system which enables users to connect mobile phones and music players by Bluetooth or USB, make hands-free telephone calls, and control music and other functions using voice commands. It also reads text messages aloud from compatible phones connected using Bluetooth.
SYNC also enables B-MAX to offer the innovative new Emergency Assistance feature which will call the local emergency services operator in the event of an accident.
At the launch yesterday, Eddie Murphy, Chairman and Managing Director of Ford Ireland said the B-MAX 'challenges traditional small car thinking'.Ford has also launched a 250hp ST version of the Focus, powered by a 2.0 petrol engine with CO2 emissions 20 percent better than its predecessor.
The ST is priced at €35,170 and €37,470, the latter with the SYNC system on board.
