Ford Previews Redesigned S-Max MPV

Ford Motor Co. has taken the wraps off its all-new 2015 model S-Max ahead of the people mover's public debut at the Paris auto show two weeks from now.

The restyled seven-passenger vehicle will offer adaptive steering, more efficient engines, LED headlamps and taillamps and optional "intelligent" all-wheel drive when it hits the European market next year.

Inside, Ford promises a "sophisticated and calming" cabin with stadium-style seating for second- and third-row passengers and more soundproofing. For front-seat occupants, there's available heated and cooled seats with massage function.

Driver-oriented goodies include power adjust and heated steering wheel and speed-sensitive power steering assist. Among the available electronic aids are pre-collision assist with automatic braking, automatic park-in and park-out assist, cross-traffic alert and adaptive LED headlamps that adjust the beam angle and modify their beam to avoid dazzling oncoming drivers.

The 2015 S-Max will add two new 4-cylinder EcoBoost engines: a 1.5-liter unit rated at 158 hp and 2.0-liter unit that makes 237 hp. Three 2.0-liter diesels produce 118 hp, 148 hp and 178 hp. All gasoline and diesel engines are fitted with automatic stop-start and regenerative charging systems.