|
||||||||||
|
|
|||||||||
We drive the Ford C-Max Energi
The American C-Max is a bit different than what you would get in Europe. In Europe, there are tons of engine choices most of which are turbo diesels that get 40-50 mpg. In America, there are only two choices of powertrains, both of which are hybrids. The regular C-Max is the Hybrid and our tester was the C-Max Energi which is also a hybrid but comes with a larger battery pack. The C-Max Energi is a plug in hybrid which means that you can plug it into an electrical outlet and charge the batteries. With a full charge the Energi should be able to go 20 miles which is just the right range for most people to go to work. So you could drive to work on full electrical power, charge the car at work, and then drive home without using a drop of fuel. The best part is that if something comes up, say you hit a lot of traffic or decide to go somewhere else, the gasoline engine is always there so you will not be stranded. With a full tank of fuel, the C-Max Energi has a range of about 500 miles.
The worst part of the C-Max Energi has to be the luggage space. Before opening the trunk, you expect a decent amount of room but the huge battery pack eats up most of the space. The rear seats do fold down but it still looks like the battery pack was an afterthought. The C-Max is full of techno gadgets to assist its owners. Sync 911 Assist uses hands-free phone capabilities to connect the driver directly with a local 911 operator through the paired phone should an accident occur in which an airbag deploys. The next-generation MyKey features now allow parents to choose from multiple top speed limits and blocking of explicit satellite radio programming. MyKey also provides a persistent audible warning if front occupants are not wearing seat belts.
Driving a C-Max is a lot more fun than a Prius. The car feels nimble and light on its feet and the driving position really helps you place the car wherever you want. The suspension is well tuned although it is no sports car. The car is very quiet and comfortable so as a commuter vehicle, the C-Max shines but you can still have some fun on your way to work. And of course, there is terrific fuel economy if using the gasoline engine. We easily got over 40 mpg driving around town and always had a big smile as we drove past gas stations. Prices for the C-Max Energi start out at $33,000. Add in the package 301A which comes with the Sony audio system and navigation and you only pay an additional $1200 which is a bargain when many European manufacturers charge over $4000 for a similar package. Another $800 buys package 302A which gives you a hands free power liftgate and rear view camera. There are a lot of other choices for that kind of money out there but the level of technology of the C-Max Energi is actually pretty amazing and is better than the competition. Ford engineers have been doing some remarkable work and it really deserves your attention. Feedback can be sent to feedback@autoracing1.com Go to our forums to discuss this article |
||||||||||
|