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First Drive

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Ford Galaxy 2.2 TDCi Ghia

Test date 01 August 2008  Price as tested  £26,945

What is it?

A new more powerful diesel version of Ford’s versatile seven-seat MPV. The extra power comes from the arrival of the 2.2-litre diesel engine that’s already familiar from various Peugeot-Citroen products, and which has also recently been introduced to the Ford Mondeo.

It’s got an extra 35bhp and 44lb ft of torque compared to the 2.0-litre TDCi, although you can only buy the new 2.2 in top-notch Ghia spec.

What’s it like?

The 2.2-litre engine’s position at the top of the range hierarchy – and mandatory luxury trim – mean that it’s only really suited to those who want the extra performance, and who are prepared to pay for the slightly poorer fuel economy.

That said, the extra torque certainly helps to motivate such a large car. Use the Galaxy as its flexible architecture allows you, with six passengers and luggage on board, and the extra torque really helps.

Even fully laden the 2.2 Galaxy can maintain a decent cruise and pick up speed quickly. And, because you don’t need to work the engine so hard, it feels more refined than the 2.0-litre.

That said, the bigger motor does produce more rattle on start-up. One frustration is the lack of an automatic option for the 2.2. The manual box is decent enough, but an automatic would be better suited to this type of car.

Should I buy one?

If you are going to regularly use the Galaxy’s carrying potential, especially over longer distances, the extra performance and refinement brought by the new 2.2 engine certainly justify the notional premium. It’s a shame then that the 2.2’s talents are limited to those willing to splash out on the Ghia model.

Jamie Corstorphine

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