2013 Ford C-MAX Wagon

Summary

Provided by NADAguides.com

New for 2013, the Ford C-Max Hybrid is a compact car powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder hybrid engine, combined with a lithium-ion powered battery, that produces 141 hp and 129 lb-ft of torque. FWD is paired to a 2-speed CVT for an EPA estimated 44 mpg city and 41 mpg highway. Features include SYNC with MyFord Touch, active park assist, push button start with intelligent access, HD radio, class-exclusive available rain sensing wipers, active grille shutters, heated mirrors, heated seats, dual-zone climate control, rearview camera, hands-free power liftgate, leather seating, and Sony audio. Safety is comprised of advanced airbags, AdvanceTrac with RSC, all-speed traction control, anti-lock braking (ABS), and SOS Post-Crash Alert System. The C-Max Energi is backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty.

Benefits of Driving a 2013 Ford C-MAX Wagon

With the all-new C-MAX, Ford has given the hybrid world a shot in the arm. The C-MAX is a stylish alternative to more established players like the Prius, and its combined 47 mpg fuel efficiency will take you far. Even better, after a generous federal tax credit, the Energi plug-in model is the most affordable plug-in hybrid in America--besting high-efficiency competitors such as the Chevy Volt, Nissan Leaf and Toyota Prius plug-in.

What's new for 2013?

The Ford C-MAX is an all-new model for 2013. The 5-passenger car is offered only as a hybrid, either as a typical gas-electric hybrid in SE and SEL models or as a plug-in gas-electric hybrid in the Energi model. All C-MAXs utilize a 2.0L inline-4-cylinder Atkinson engine, along with an electric motor powered by a lithium-ion battery, which together produce 188 total horsepower. A continuously variable transmission is employed to help maximize efficiency, and the EPA estimates 47 mpg in both the city and out on the highway for the C-MAX hybrid. Meanwhile the C-MAX Energi promises a 95 mpg equivalent with its combined gas and electric mode. With seating for five, generous standard and available options and pricing that starts at $25,200, the new C-MAX is a bold and value-laden addition to the Ford lineup.

Model Strengths

Excellent efficiency and power from both the hybrid and the Energi plug-in hybrid models
small car styling with lots of interior space
competitive pricing

Model Review

The new C-MAX redefines Ford's endeavor in the world of hybrids. Two models in three trims are offered: the Hybrid SE and SEL, as well as the plug-in Energi. All are powered by a 2.0L inline-4 Atkinson engine with an electric motor, which total 188 total system horsepower. The difference in the Energi is its battery. That car utilizes a 7.5kWh Lithium-ion battery (vs. a 1.4Wh cell in the regular Hybrid). This means it, too, can power the car, without any gas engine assistance, for a range of up to 20 miles. And whereas the Hybrid's smaller battery is recharged solely by the use of the gasoline engine, the Energi's battery can be plugged into either a 120- or 240-volt outlet, for a total charge time of either 7 or 2.5 hours, depending upon the outlet. A 240-volt Leviton charging station can be purchased separately. All C-MAX powerplants are mated to an electronic continuously variable transmission driving the front wheels. So equipped, the Hybrid is EPA rated at a combined 47 mpg, while Ford claims the Energi can deliver a 95 mpg equivalent.

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