Ford - Galaxy

1995-00  2000-06 

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Galaxy is essentially the same as Sharan and Alhambra: a flexible family wagon that drives like a car. Its only drawback is lack of loadspace with seven seats in use.

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	More flexible than a big estate car
	Reasonable running costs
	Easy to drive, manoeuvre and park
	Diesels feel sluggish when laden
	Rear space in seven-seaters is tight
	Minor reliability issues: trim, electrics

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Of all the mid-Nineties MPVs, 'Sharalaxy' (Sharan, Alhambra, Galaxy) remains the most popular. Only slightly longer than a typical medium estate car, it's not at all daunting to drive. In fact the high seating and big windows give an above-average view of the road. Ride is quite refined, with not much unsettling body roll.
Interior space is fine for five. In seven-seaters, the rear two seats are cramped for adults. And a large family's holiday gear won't fit in - think roof-box instead. Comfort is good, with generous equipment except on Aspen and LX. Aspen also lacks standard air con - a must in a greenhouse-like MPV.
Petrol engines are livelier than diesels but struggle to return 30mpg. VW's 1.9TD unit is willing but never quick; it gives 40mpg and is most used buyers' first choice.
Safety and security standards are adequate, though on early cars only high-spec Ghia models have ABS.