Ford S-Max and Galaxy (2010) first official pictures

Ford today whisks the covers off updated versions of the S-Max and Galaxy, fresh for launch in 2010. The MPV duo will be shown publicly for the first time at that most Eurocratic of motor shows, the 2010 Brussels expo.

The facelifts may look mild, but Ford's European design boss Martin Smith says there are more than 1700 new parts, including sheet metal changes. He says the changes are designed to 'give them a fresh new look and more premium appeal.'

Both MPVs gain fresh bonnets, grilles, facias and LED tail lights. The S-Max also gains a new spoiler and front bumper, with striking new LED running lights on Titanium and Titanium X Sport trims. It's all very new-gen Focus/C-Max. Inside, there's an optional one-piece panoramic roof with powered sunblinds and LED lighting, plus a new 265-watt stereo.

Meanwhile, the revised Galaxy – the more sober, roomier people carrier in Ford's range – benefits from new door handles (seriously), foglights and integrated roof bars. Interior changes include a redesigned centre console and more distinctive trims with a light beige 'biscuit' colour.

Other additions include a Volvo-spec Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), keyless entry, rear-view cameras and an EasyFuel system to prevent those wrong-pump dilemmas. Both models also come with Ford's FoldFlatSystem as standard.

'We've given both models a fresh new look and more premium appeal, but it is underneath the skin that the major changes have been made,' promises John Fleming, executive vice president and chairman and CEO of Ford of Europe. That's one long business card.

The S-Max and Galaxy both introduce Ford's new, bigger Ecoboost engine: the 2.0-litre SCTi unit, which comes as standard with a PowerShift wet double-clutch gearbox. Producing 200bhp and 221lb ft of torque, the new powerplant will propel the S-Max from 0-62mph in 8.5 seconds and on to 147mph, while the Galaxy will achieve 60mph in 8.8 seconds and top out at 135mph.

Of course, any engine with the word 'eco' in its designation must boast some green credentials; as such, the new motor will produce a respectable 189g/km of CO2 with a combined fuel economy of 34.8mpg.

Also available for both cars will be a 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi motor in 113bhp, 138bhp and 161bhp variants, for which the PowerShift transmission will be optional. Expec the diesels to make up the bulk of sales.

The facelifted new S-Max and Galaxy will go on sale in early 2010.

By Tim Swietochowski