Which C-Max has sliding doors?

The Grand C-Max, Ford's seven-seat variant, is the C-Max model that features sliding rear doors. The standard five-seat C-Max does not offer sliding doors.

Understanding the C-Max lineup

The Ford C-Max family has evolved across two generations and includes the longer-wheelbase Grand C-Max. The door configuration is one of the clearest ways to tell them apart: seating capacity drives access design.

Two main variants

Within the C-Max family, there are two primary configurations buyers encounter. Knowing which one you’re evaluating helps determine whether sliding doors are present.

• C-Max (5-seat): traditional front-hinged rear doors; no sliding doors.


• Grand C-Max (7-seat): sliding side doors on both sides, a hallmark feature for easier access to the rear row.

The Grand C-Max’s sliding doors are designed to simplify getting to the third row in tighter parking spots. In some markets, trims or options may include power-sliding doors, but manual sliding doors were common.

Practical implications for buyers

For families or users who frequently access the rear seats, the Grand C-Max’s sliding doors offer a noticeable convenience. If you don’t need seven seats and want a more compact footprint, the standard C-Max remains the logical choice with similar efficiency and driving dynamics.

Where sliding doors fit in Ford's lineup

Other Ford MPVs such as the S-Max and Galaxy commonly feature sliding rear doors, reinforcing Ford’s emphasis on easy rear access in its larger family vehicles. The Grand C-Max aligns with that design philosophy, while the standard C-Max prioritizes a smaller, city-friendly footprint.

Summary

In short, only the Grand C-Max (the seven-seat version) officially offers sliding rear doors. The standard five-seat C-Max does not. Always check the specific model year and market to confirm whether a given trim includes sliding doors or power-sliding options.

Does the Ford C-Max have sliding doors?

With dual sliding rear doors and a selection of innovative features, the Ford Grand C-MAX helps you get the most out of family life.

Are there any SUVs with sliding doors?

While traditional SUVs don't typically have sliding doors, the Toyota Century SUV is a notable exception, offering them as a customizable option. The Kia Carnival is another vehicle with sliding doors, but it is marketed as an MPV (minivan) despite its SUV-like styling, as seen in this YouTube video and this YouTube video. 
Toyota Century SUV

• This ultra-luxury vehicle, primarily for the Japanese market, can be configured with rear sliding doors, although the exact mechanism is unique, potentially involving a complex hinge system rather than a traditional sliding rail. 

Kia Carnival

• The Carnival is officially a minivan but has a bold exterior design that gives it SUV-like styling. 
• It comes standard with power sliding doors, making it an accessible and practical choice for families, as detailed in this YouTube video and this YouTube video. 

Other vehicles

• Some vehicles, like the Toyota Vellfire, are also considered to have sliding doors and are designed for families and executives, according to CarWale. 
• The traditional SUV market has not embraced sliding doors, with manufacturers typically preferring swing-out doors for the SUV body style, such as seen in the comparison between the Nissan NV (a van) and the Nissan Armada (an SUV) on The Autopian. 

Which Ford has sliding rear doors?

Ford B-Max
"The Ford B-Max is a very clever take on the small MPV. It's built on the same platform as a Ford Fiesta, but it's a bit longer, taller and packs a very innovative pair of rear doors that makes entry easier.

What is the common problem with Ford C-Max?

Common Ford C-Max problems include issues with the 12v battery drain, suspension components like worn struts and bushings, electrical glitches such as failing parking sensors and door locks, and problems with the air conditioning system (AC). Hybrid models may experience battery degradation, while certain gasoline engines can have timing belt or phase regulator issues, and some diesel engines may face problems with the exhaust gas cleaning system and particulate filter.
 
This video discusses common problems and issues with the Ford C-Max: 59sAutoProblemsYouTube · Aug 30, 2022
Electrical and battery issues

• 12v battery drain: The 12v battery can discharge quickly if the car sits for an extended period. 
• Parking sensors: Sensors can fail due to dirt and corrosion, which may disable the entire system. 
• Door locks: Moisture can cause issues with the door lock mechanisms. 
• Instrument panel: Older models may experience failures with erratic pointers and warning lights, often fixable by resoldering contacts. 

Engine and exhaust problems 

• Timing belt/regulators: Some gasoline engines, particularly the 1.6L, can have issues with timing belts or phase regulators. 
• Engine oil leaks: Older 1.8L engines may have high oil consumption, and some 2.0L diesel engines can experience oil leaks from oil seals. 
• Exhaust system: Issues can arise with the exhaust gas cleaning system and particulate filter, especially in diesel versions. 

Suspension and steering

• Suspension noise: A creaking noise when driving slowly can indicate failed front shock absorber top mounts. 
• Steering wheel vibrations: These can be caused by unbalanced tires, worn suspension components (like ball joints or tie rods), or bent wheels. 
• Anti-roll bars: These can start to knock over time and may need replacement. 

Climate control and air conditioning

• Air conditioning (AC): The AC system's radiator can corrode and lose tightness. 
• Heating: Diesel versions have been criticized for an inefficient heating system. 

Other common problems

• Hybrid battery: Hybrid models can experience battery degradation, leading to reduced electric range over time. 
• Brakes: Premature brake pad and rotor wear can occur, and some models may have issues with the rear caliper mounting brackets, leading to a noise when reversing. 
• Boot release button: The external boot release can be vulnerable to water damage. 
• Liftgate: The auto liftgate can be expensive to repair due to the cost of the lifting rods.