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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  47 MPG IS POSSIBLE - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By hof - April 13 - 8:58 am

  I got my C-Max in March, and I have about 1300 miles on it. I have only stopped for fuel twice in that period, and neither time was I empty. When I got the car, the weather was cold and I got about 38 MPG overall. Since the weather improved, I have gotten 44 MPG overall and MPG is still going up. Since my last fill-up I have averaged 46.6. These figures are almost as good as Edmunds long term Prius-C. The C-Max is about more than mileage. It has a lot of power, at 8.5 seconds, its 0-60 is about the same as a 1976 Pontiac Trans Am. If you use that power you wont get Prius-type gas mileage. The cabin is comfortable with soft touch materials almost everywhere.

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  Excellent choice - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By sherio - April 10 - 12:49 am

  I got my C-Max a couple of months ago. I absolutely LOVE it. It is fun to drive, zippy when you need it, fantastic gas milage. I get 44 mpg routinely with the AC on and that is exactly what my 2004 Civic Hybrid got (also a great car). But I tend to have a lead foot with take offs. My husband can get milage in the high 50-mid 60s around town and 47 on the highway. Because I could not stand to let him win, I smoothed out my quick starts and also get 46mpgs. The car is comfortable to drive and ride as a passenger. Plenty of space for passengers in the back or to haul around stuff. It is really a great car.

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  14K And All Is Great - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By nsteblay - April 5 - 12:02 am

  I bought the C-Max under the pretense of getting 47 Hwy / 47 city. I soon discovered that the EPA doesnt require testing in cold weather The C-Max relies on EV mode to get mileage. Living in Minnesota during the winter the engine needs to run almost constantly to keep the car warm. Hense overall Im averaging 41 MPG per year. This summer Ive been averaging 50+ MPG for commutes to work.

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  Crappy Mileage - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By jbn74135 - January 19 - 5:42 pm

  We recently bought a C-Max. After 636 miles, we are averaging only 31.2 mpg. We are driving extremely light foot, following the speed limit, these about 755 highway miles (reason we bought based ont the FALSELY advertised 47mpg) and have used real gas but did not see any real improvement in MPG. The only possibly excuse is that we drive 75 on the interstate (OKLA speed limit). However, even in town, following the little blue guidelines (on the display), we still only get about 32 in the city. The car is roomy and relatively comfortable but if you are thinking you will get 47, you are about to be cheated.

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  Perfect car for a techy empty nester taking long trips with the wife to visit kids - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By abeachdog - October 30 - 10:10 pm

  I get 34-38mpg Freeway Driving (63-80mph); 37-44 Highway (45-62); 38-50 City (25-45). My lifetime avg. is 38.9. I started getting about 3mpg better after 5000 miles. Cold weather (Under 40degrees), hilly conditions, stop and go driving, strong winds, and wet conditions can really drop the mpg. I get great gas mileage considering the size and drivability of the vehicle. Im going from a Miata and B3000 pickup to the C-Max. I wanted a comfortable car, fun to drive, 40+ mpg, and with lots of tech stuff. I like the techy look. This car would be what I would have custom built for what I want/need at this stage of my life. Going from Cali to Idaho in style, comfort, and low expense!

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  2014 4K review - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By hounder219 - October 16 - 7:10 pm

  Just a review of what I think so far. I have a 2014 SE without nav. I got this car because of I will be on the road quite a bit in the next few years a needed a good MPG car. Just completed a 3,200 mile trip with some 8 to 13hr runs and seating and controls are great. Front seats are awesome the rear not great. Im 62" and felt very comfortable. This is my first SYNC car and the BT worked very well. Loved how all the controls worked and felt after the learning curve was completed. The car itself is very solid and quite. Not like the Prius or Honda Civic which I felt a bit like a tin can. Viability is awesome as are the mirrors.

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  VERY Happy - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By davesc - October 5 - 7:25 am

  We purchased the C-Max last Sunday, 6 days ago. I am very impressed. Went golfing with 4 guys, fitting clubs in was a challenge, where we drove 200 miles round trip. Had the air conditioner on for the trip home and had the cruise control set at 65 most of the trip and got 40.5 MPG. Around town consistently get 40-45 MPG. Acceleration is great and a solid car. Electronics takes some getting use to but lots of capabilites. One of the best cars I have ever purchased.

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  Disappointing Highway Mileage - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By lanthony2020 - August 14 - 1:29 pm

  After 7600 miles, the highway miles run between 33.5 and 37.5 at 80, 70 and 60 MPH respectively. At 55, not much better. This on a know stretch of flat interstate with no wind. City mileage is OK if I cruse at 25, I can get 50 going slow in town. Traded in my 2010 TDI. The TDI got much better on the highway at those speeds. I could get 50 if I wanted to drive 55 MPH.

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  Excellent package. - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By hotpotato - August 7 - 10:51 pm

  I traded in a beautiful German near-luxury sedan for this car. Other than prestige, its little sacrifice. The C-Max drives like a European car because it is one (its been sold in Europe for years, though not as a hybrid). I get 36-37 MPG, better than the 20 of my old car and comparable to the 40 of the Prius V. The compromises the Prius makes to get those last couple MPG (in road noise, acceleration, structural rigidity) arent worth it to me. (We drive Priuses as company cars.)

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  No Compromises - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By henrydrobinson - May 31 - 6:08 pm

  Bought red C-Max four days ago with every options but auto parallel park. Its not a long car and I have to parallel park about once a month. I love the C-Max. I think it looks so much better than Prius or Prius V and there arent a million yet on the road. The red color looks like a candy red Corvette. Love it. Car is quick. Glass roof and huge wind shield gives amazing visibility in all directions, including up. Traded in a 2011 Explorer that was awesome but wanted better gas mileage. Glad I did. Just miss adaptive cruise control that I had on the Explorer.