Ford - Galaxy

1995-00 2000-06

Galaxy, along with cousins Sharan and Alhambra, is pleasingly car-like to drive. It's comfortable, refined, reliable and well built. Small wonder then that the Shar-al-axy trio outsells other big MPVs.

	Quality family MPV with good engines
	Refined, respected, easy to drive
	Excellent TDi turbodiesels are economical
	Alhambra offers better all-round value
	2.8 V6 is thirsty and has high insurance costs
	Not much luggage space with all seats in use

Galaxy sits between Sharan and Alhambra in the value equation. It offers most of Sharan's features at lower prices than the VW, but it's built to VW standards.
Although smaller than C8/Ulysse/807, Previa and Voyager, Galaxy has a well planned interior with good space for five plus luggage and an excellent driving position. There's limited load space in seven-seater mode, and the rear seats are a bit heavy - many owners leave them in the garage unless required. The well-trimmed interior is durable.
As easy to drive as a family hatchback, Galaxy has a slightly firm ride but little body roll. It's quite nimble around town and easy to park.
Best petrol engine is the 2.3 16v but buyers like diesels best - VW's 1.9 TDi units of 90, 115 or 130 bhp. All give 40-45mpg but the 90 bhp car feels sluggish.
Used values are weakening ahead of Galaxy's replacement in 2005.