CHANGES FOR 2013: - New model for North America. Another cleverly packaged Euro-transplant, this tallish MPV (multi-purpose vehicle in Euro-speak) arrives as both a hybrid and Energi plug-in hybrid. Power comes from a 2.0L Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder and an electric traction motor drawing power from an advanced lithium-ion battery system. Ford’s in-house hybrid drivetrain is the most well-integrated hybrid system available, and indeed the C-Max drives well, although sporty it is not. With seating for five, it can’t match the utility of the Mazda5 or Chevy Orlando, and the battery pack eats up some cargo space, but the rear seats fold flat for an impressive 1,489 L total. The hybrid C-MAX is available in two trims - SE and SEL - whereas the Energi model is a sole trim model. In SE trim, features include 2.0L hybrid electric powertrain, eCVT transmission, lithium ion battery, regenerative braking, dual-zone automatic climate control, floor mats, dual illuminated vanity mirrors, 2nd row in-floor storage, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, tilt/telescopic steering wheel with audio controls, power windows with auto up/down, 110V powerpoint, compass, remote keyless entry, outside temperature display, SmartGauge with EcoGuide, cruise control, six-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio with auxiliary and USB input, Ford SYNC, 6-way driver/4-way passenger manually adjustable seats, 2nd row 60/40 split-fold-flat seats, cloth seating surfaces, rear spoiler, power mirrors with integrated turn signals and blind spot mirrors, Easy Fuel capless fuel filler system, airbags (front, front seat, driver's knee, side curtain), front and rear disc brakes with ABS, emergency brake assist, SOS post crash alert, Ford MyKey, power locks, tire mobility kit, and battery saver. SEL trim adds ambient lighting, SYNC with MyFord Touch, heated front seats, electrochromic rearview mirror, universal garage door opener, push button start, satellite radio, 10-way power adjustable driver's seat, leather trimmed seats, heated side mirrors, fog lights, piano black grille, reverse sensing system, rain sensing wipers, and perimeter alarm. Energi adds LED illuminated charge port and plugin capability.
