2017 Ford C-Max

Pros: Nicely finished interior; outstanding headroom; easy entry/exit and good visibility thanks to elevated seating position; surprisingly sporty, nimble handling

Cons: Large turning radius for the size; Hybrid’s real-world mpg doesn’t match Toyota Prius v; hybrid battery pack cuts into rear cargo space, especially in Energi model; non-linear brake-pedal feel

CG Says: For 2017, Ford C-Max has revised frontal styling. The topline SEL model is now badged Titanium. The Energi plug-in version is now available in base SE trim. Previously, Energi was only offered in high-level SEL trim. This small-for-the-class midsize car offers better-than-average passenger room because of its “tall-wagon” body style. Only hybrid powertrains are offered; the C-Max Hybrid is a conventional hybrid with gas/electric powertrain that puts out 188 horsepower in total, and the C-Max Energi is a plug-in hybrid that has the same basic powertrain, but with a larger battery that allows for an all-electric driving range of about 20 miles. C-Max is front-wheel drive and has a continuously variable transmission. Available features include active park assist, fixed panoramic sunroof, keyless access and starting, and remote engine start. The C-Max is aimed squarely at Toyota’s wildly successful Prius family, and it comes closer than any other hybrid to hitting the mark. Part of its appeal stems from the fact that the Hybrid version, at least, offers a usefully cubic cargo area along with some neat features such as Ford’s hands-free power tailgate, all at Prius-competitive prices.

ROAD TESTS AND ADDITIONAL INFO

2014 Ford C-Max Energi Test Drive Review

Current Ford C-Max Review

2016 Ford C-Max Review

5 Ways Hybrids are Different

Guide to Electric Vehicle Charging