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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  Cmax tricks prius owner - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By drkatt - July 13 - 12:48 am

  I haved owned 2 priuses and wanted to try something new and the 47/47 on the sticker was close to what I was getting on the prius. After buying am only getting 37 mpg. Would give the car pluses on design, is fun to drive and comfortable but the 47/47 is a lie..not happening and the prius never failed to get near that. Oh well..lesson learned.

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  47 mph is a lie - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By fisherlcsw - June 21 - 6:56 am

  I had a 2008 civic hybred and I averaged 42 to 46 mph. I bought the C-Max because of its reported 47 mph. At 1244 miles, I have averaged 34.2 mph. Fuelly shows of 81 drivers of c-max reporting, the majority of us are 37 mph or less. Nice car but not what was advertised.

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  2013 ford c-Max - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By tl6446 - March 25 - 3:13 am

  I purchase this vehicle a month ago expecting to get about 47mpg and all I can say is (NO WAY) will this car achieve/even close to that mpg. I feel cheated by Ford Motor Co. Its a nice car quiet and cumfortable but that is it. I was told by the dealer that the fuel economy would improve after 2,000 miles, well now I have 3,000 miles and the best I can get is about 35mpg. I go by the miles driven and the amount of gas I use and not by the computer that reads 37 to 38 mpg! I actually get 35-36 mpg not even close to 47! What a joke! 12 mpg off. There needs to be class action law suit because this car is a rip. I have a 2010 Prius that consistantly achieves 47+mpg overall but its cheap plastic

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  Great car...overall - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By carguy1002 - July 26 - 2:06 am

  I bought this car and took it on a 500 mile road trip the next day. I have the SE with 202A package. As most reviews say, dont expect 47mpg. I am getting 41mpg, and that is really trying (expect 37 driving normally, city or highway). I think this is good for a 3,700 pound car with a tall profile. The interior is really well built with great visibility. There is plenty of leg room in the back (though the bench is a little low). Only plan for 4 people though, the car is narrow. Good luggage space, you can easily get 2 VERY large suitcases back there (3 normal ones). The SYNC sucks. The screen looks nice and you get Sirius radio, and its affordable at $570, so I would buy it again.

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  Good so far - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By pappy56 - July 23 - 8:24 pm

  Only owned the car a couple of days but I love it. For a 3600 lb. vehicle with a 4 cyl. the acceleration is amazing. Handling is real good too. Traded in a 2010 Sport Fusion for it and it doesnt feel like I lost a lot. Gas milage so far for me is 37mpg so that will take some improvement. Seats are comfortable. The Blind Spot mirrors are somewhat of a throwback but they work. The power liftgate comes as advertised. Swipe your foot under the bumper to open or close. The panoramic sunroof does not open but its huge. The sunshade is slightly transparent so I can see this being a problem when the hot weather rolls in. It will take a long time to master MyFord Touch.

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  Great car, worth taking the time to consider - 2014 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By geobf - May 4 - 5:17 am

  Very happy with the car after 2200 miles and averaging 44 MPG in a mix of highway and city during my normal commute. Think of the car as a mini-minvan - some cargo capacity (not a ton without dropping the back seat) but a solid commuter vehicle. Will run on electric power up to about 65 MPH. Cute efficiency monitor to train you on best MPG. Driving over 70 will run engine all the time for lowest MPG. Definitely shop for the base SE model - much better deal and the manual cloth seats work just fine. I avoided the MyTouch radio and glad I did. Replaced an Escape hybrid so I knew about driving a hybrid but no problems with learning how to keep it on electric often.

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  Fun to Drive, But There Are Problems........ - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By jeff364 - April 20 - 2:49 pm

  The C-Max has great interior design, a good sound system, handles well and seems roomy, but there are nagging problems that drag down the car. Like another reviewer, my clock just randomly changes time. The car also randomly starts itself which is a little disconcerting. The cruise control does not throttle back when going downhill so on a long, steep hill you can end up going 20 - 25 MPH over the speed you set. I think that is a dangerous defect, although not sure if I just have a defective cruise control or this is a problem with all C-Max cruise controls.

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  Ive owned my Ford C-max for a YEAR - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By klovors_mom - March 16 - 9:37 am

  I loved this car at first But now it has locked me out and wont start I got over it the first and second time but now we are on the eighth time Every time I have taken it to the ford dealer i bought it from(this is the third time) they give me a different reason and say it is fixed after they are done They even said it was my remote start i had put in even thought it did it twice before I put the starter in They told me i had to remove it cost $177.00 Oh and that remote start cost $650.00 to put in But I live in the country we have a lot of hills I am trying to get rid of the car because I have a two year old and need something that is reliable

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  Love My Weird Looking Car - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By clovjul - January 11 - 6:16 am

  I had the 2013 Fusion and hated it. They put me in this, even though I was resistent. It is funny-looking (better than the ugly Prius, but that isnt saying much). And now I freaking love my weird looking car. It is fun to drive, feels spacious inside but is easy to zip around. The MPG is about 35 right now and I think I can get it higher. Not 47, but maybe 40. The seats could be a bit more comfortable, but I really love driving my car and am loving owning a hybrid. No way would I consider the Prius now.