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Do all Ford S Max have 7 seats?

Yes. Every Ford S‑Max is designed as a seven‑seat MPV, offering seating for seven across three rows as standard in typical configurations.


While the S‑Max is marketed for family practicality, some buyers wonder whether a five‑seat version exists. Below we unpack how the seating works, what variants exist, and how to verify the configuration in a specific car.


Seating configuration and variants


Here are the core details about how many seats Ford typically builds into the S‑Max and what you should expect when shopping for one.



  • A seven‑seat layout is standard: two front seats, a middle row of three, and a rear row of two (commonly described as 2-3-2).

  • The rear seats are generally foldable to increase boot space, allowing flexible cargo‑and‑passenger configurations.

  • In some trims or markets, a version with captain's chairs in the second row is offered, changing the middle row to two seats with a central console.

  • Ford has not widely offered a factory five‑seat S‑Max in most markets; the seven‑seat configuration remains the norm for new cars.


In essence, the S‑Max is engineered around seven seats, with space adaptable through folding seating and occasional alternative middle‑row arrangements, but a five‑seat factory variant is not typical for most markets.


How to verify seating in a specific vehicle


When shopping for a used S‑Max, confirming the exact seating arrangement is essential, since dealer listings may vary by trim or market.



  1. Check the vehicle’s official spec sheet or brochure for the VIN to confirm the seating configuration (7 seats) and whether a third row is included.

  2. Ask the seller to demonstrate the rear seats and provide photos or a live walk‑around showing how the seats fold and stow.

  3. If you need a specific middle‑row setup (bench vs. captain’s chairs), confirm the option with the seller or check the build sheet for that car.

  4. Look for signs of non‑factory alterations, such as missing third‑row equipment or aftermarket seat removal, which could reduce seating from seven to five.


Most buyers will find a true factory‑configured S‑Max to have seven seats and a flexible cargo area, with variations typically reflecting trim level or market rather than a different base configuration.


Summary


The Ford S‑Max is designed as a seven‑seat MPV across its current lineup, typically arranged in a 2-3-2 layout with foldable third‑row seating to boost cargo space. While some markets or trims have offered alternative second‑row arrangements, a factory five‑seat version is not common. Always verify the seating configuration against official specs when evaluating a used example.

Why did Ford stop making the S-Max?


Production of the S-Max ended in April 2023 due to sharply declining sales in the MPV segment and Ford's shift towards crossovers, SUVs and electrified vehicles.



How many seats is a Ford S-Max?


Ford S-Max 7 Seater cars for sale
With 539 used 7 Seater Ford S-Max cars available on Auto Trader, we have the largest range of cars for sale available across the UK.



Is a Ford S-Max a 7 seater?


The seven-seater Ford S-Max is an ideal model for getting extra space without feeling too bulky. Measuring 4,796mm in length, you'll easily be able to manoeuvre the S-Max without much trouble at all. The overall width of the vehicle with the mirrors in their usual position is 2,137mm, and stands at 1,658mm high.



Which Ford models are 7 seaters?


Ford 7 seater range: current models

  • Ford Grand Tourneo Connect. Don't cross the Grand Tourneo Connect off your shortlist just because it's based on a van.
  • Ford Tourneo Connect. Like its big brother, the regular-sized Tourneo Connect is available with seven seats.
  • Ford Galaxy.
  • Ford S-Max.
  • Ford S-Max Vignale.
  • Ford Grand C-Max.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.