Overview & Reviews

The Ford C-Max Hybrid is a tall wagon that seats five and offers an impressive amount of passenger space. Although its hybrid drivetrain and resulting high mpg ratings are the main draws, the C-Max is also quite practical for family use thanks to its interior layout and wide array of convenience features. Furthermore, its seating position feels more like an SUV than a conventional wagon and offers the resulting commanding view of the road that many consumers desire.

There are a few drawbacks to the Ford C-Max Hybrid, however, such as rather modest maximum cargo space relative to competing models. But overall, we think its combination of high fuel economy and SUV-style seating position should make it a compelling alternative to other hybrids and small crossover SUVs.

Current Ford C-Max
The Ford C-Max Hybrid is a tall hatchback/wagon that's available in two trim levels: SE and SEL. The plug-in hybrid C-Max Energi is reviewed separately.

All C-Max Hybrids are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, good for 141 horsepower and 121 pound-feet of torque. It's paired to an electric motor fed by a lithium-ion battery pack. The gas and electric propulsion systems working in tandem produce an estimated 188 hp. EPA-estimated fuel economy is an impressive 43 mpg combined.

Standard feature highlights on the SE include dual-zone climate control, a height-adjustable driver seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, the Sync voice-activated electronics interface (includes Bluetooth phone connectivity) and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player and an iPod/USB audio interface. Moving up to the SEL gets you rear parking sensors, heated seats, the MyFord Touch electronics interface, extra Sync services and satellite radio. Key options include a power liftgate, a rearview camera, a navigation system, a panoramic sunroof and remote start. Also available are front parking sensors, an automatic parallel parking system and an advanced power liftgate that opens when you swipe your foot under the bumper.

Quicker than most hybrids, the C-Max accelerates from a standstill to 60 mph in about 8 seconds. Solid midrange response on the highway means passing is easy, with a seamless blending of engine and electric motor power. Overall, the driving experience is quite pleasant, with a smooth and quiet ride. Around turns, this tall wagon feels steady and even a bit sporty.

Adding to the sense of well-being is the tall hybrid wagon's airy, spacious cabin. The C-Max offers a massive amount of headroom and fantastic visibility out the front. If you're accustomed to driving around in a small SUV or crossover, you'll likely find the driving position exceptionally comfortable. In addition to its sporty cockpit-like design elements, the C-Max Hybrid also boasts top-notch materials and build quality.

The Sync voice control interface makes it easy to call up your favorite music on the fly, and when you combine it with the MyFord Touch and navigation, you get even more functionality. One downside is that it takes a while to get up to speed with either of the electronic interfaces, which can be a bit unintuitive and have been prone to glitches.

Although rear-seat comfort is excellent in the C-Max (with ample legroom even for adults), cargo capacity is modest due to the intrusion of the hybrid's lithium-ion battery pack. There are only 24.5 cubic feet behind the backseat. Lowering the seats opens up 52.6 cubic feet of space, still short of a typical small crossover SUV or a Toyota Prius V.

Apart from these shortcomings, the Ford C-Max Hybrid is an exceptional family runabout. It's quicker and more enjoyable to drive than other hybrids, yet it's far more fuel-efficient than a compact crossover SUV or minivan.

Used Ford C-Max Hybrid Models
The Ford C-Max Hybrid debuted for the 2013 model year. There have been no significant changes since.

User Reviews:

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  NO START DEAD Battery - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By daydreme - February 2 - 4:03 am

  It is a cute car and comfortable if a single passenger is the primary occupant maybe 1 child anymore and its very tight - its not very well designed for a female. no where near enough compartments for all the items we need to carry for our children so everyday needs just ends loose all the back seat. I like how Toyota and Honda has little closed compartments on the dash.

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  Great, Peppy 42-43 MPG car - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By hof - February 1 - 6:37 am

  For most people its not a 47 MPG car, but the fact is a great 42-43 MPG car. (My lifetime MPG peaked at 45 in October but is going down with colder weather.) Myfordtouch is fun to play with even though the speech recognition is a bit dodgy at times. The car performs much better than the Prius and is roomy for 4 adults. It doesnt really NEED a backup cam in that visibility in the back is better than a prius even without a cam, but a cam would be nice. Mine has the rear sonar which is useful, but a camera would be better. My only problem has been a tire pressure warning system light that wont go off withotu a dealer re, but thats not unique to the CMAX, thats a standard Ford part.

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  Truth about the Mileage Debate - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By saw67 - January 30 - 11:05 pm

  First, after 6 months of driving my C-Max, I can safely say that its one of the best cars Ive owned, in quality, fuel efficiency, and features. Ride is smooth, and theres power when you want and need it. People used to driving Prius and other brand hybrids WILL NEED TO ADAPT, because the C-Max behaves very differently, and makes different choices than other hybrids. Once we learned how to drive it, were averaging 37-45mpg, which is actually higher than we expected (nobody expects to actually make the "published mileage" because we dont drive in computer controlled conditions. Turn off the climate control, open the windows, and we get over 50mpg! Ignore the naysayers!

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  WHY DOESNT FORD GET RID OF SYNC? - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By daveahc - December 8 - 7:35 pm

  I bought a C-Max SEL in October. I drive a lot miles (average 35,000 per year) and I have 9000 on it already. The My Sync radio is a flop. So much so that I have had it at the dealer more than 4 times and they say they cannot fix it now for a month. Even though I love everything else about the car (except that I can never get more than 40 mpg), now I have decided to ask for a Ford to repurchase the car under my states Lemon Law because the Sync system cannot be fixed.

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  Great Car - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By dolinda314 - November 11 - 6:53 pm

  I have had this car for almost two weeks. We researched C-max on line before buying. It has exceeded expectations in every way! What a fun car to drive! I recommend it highly. We are exceeding 40 mpg now and expect to go much higher as it is "broken in".

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  2013 CMAX Great Car! - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By happycmaxowner - October 10 - 6:42 pm

  Very happy with my CMAX purchase. Buying the 2013 at the beginning of 2014 allowed a $5000 markdown on a new car, erasing the mark-up diff of a hybrid. I have gotten 42 mpg city/42 mpg hwy consistently over 7000 miles. (Sure I get higher when really trying!) Pleased with the interior space width. Comfortable filled with 4 people. No issues in 9 months of ownership! And paying for half the gas I used to. woot woot!

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  11,000 miles and still happy - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By sherio - September 30 - 6:29 pm

  I am surprised by some of the negative reviews so I wanted to weigh in that I am at 11,000 miles and love my c-max. I did get a late model 2013 and had to wait for after recalls. Maybe they fixed the glitches before I got mine. LOVE IT!!!

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  Love my new C-Max! - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By astephens - September 27 - 12:05 am

  I have had my C-Max for about a week now and I could not be happier. Still in the "breaking in" period with an avg mpg of 34.1, but Im watching that number climb every time I drive it. I have had highway driving trips with 55 mpg and city driving trips around 47. With only about 400 miles on the car I expect these numbers to improve or at least become more consistent. Obviously not built for speed, but thats not why you would want this car. Still, with the combined 188 hp theres enough power to move when you need/want to. Comfort, space and fuel efficient with a kick.

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  Best car I own - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By alexinmemphis - September 13 - 6:07 pm

  I would probably be slightly disappointed if Id paid full price for my C-Max. We bought ours used with 7k miles on it. It now has 12k. When I bought the car, the lifetime mileage was 32 mpg. Now its 37. Hybrids are still cars. The person who previously owned this vehicle had a very short drive cycle. If you drive a short distance- less than 5 miles, you cant expect anything to get the EPA rating. My wife drives 5 miles per day. Important- be aware of the tire inflation sticker. I thought my Cmax handled like a badly, but the dealer only put 32 psi in the tires- the sticker says 42! Make sure your tires are properly inflated, the sticker is in the drivers door jamb.

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  Terrible Fuel Mileage - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By sabrinakrouse - July 19 - 6:06 am

  I purchased the Ford C-Max to replace my Toyota Pruis, hoping for compareable gas mileage. Sticker stated 47 MPG and I am currently getting 33 MPG, very disappointing!!! I am experienced hybrid driver and have tried all the recommended suggestions to get the MPG to go up...not driving above 60MPH, not accelerating to aggressively...ECT. Very very sorry that I purchased the Ford C-max. I have 2 kids and do alot of driving and have sacrificed room for the gas mileage, if I would have known that I was going to get this MPG I could have gotten a small SUV and had the room that I am missing.