more about this model The 2017 Ford C-Max Hybrid is a difficult car to classify. Is it a crossover-utility vehicle? Is it a compact wagon? Is it a fuel-efficient runabout? The answers are "not really," "yes" and "yes." Ford calls it a "multi-activity vehicle," and though we doubt the MAV acronym will ever catch on, it's as good a description as any for this European-bred vehicle.
There are so many things we like about the C-Max that it's difficult to pick a place to start; since Ford puts "hybrid" right in the name, we'll begin there. The hybrid powertrain comprises a 2.0-liter gasoline engine paired with an electric motor for a total system output of 188 horsepower. The EPA estimates the C-Max Hybrid's fuel economy at 40 mpg combined (42 city/38 highway), which is good for such a commodious vehicle, though not the highest you'll see in a hybrid hatchback. Ford also makes a plug-in hybrid version called the C-Max Energi, which is covered in a separate review.
The C-Max Hybrid is quick: We clocked it to 60 mph in 8.1 seconds, and we were impressed by its real-world acceleration and passing power. It's also easy to maneuver and good fun to drive, with a suspension that blends above-average ride comfort and sharp handling.
We're equally fond of the interior, which is well organized and made up of high-quality materials. The tall driving position provides excellent visibility on par with that of SUVs and crossovers, and there's plenty of storage space for odds and ends. We like the new Sync 3 infotainment interface that comes standard on the top-of-the-line Titanium model; we're much less fond of the small display on the base-level SE.
Rear seat passengers enjoy plenty of leg- and headroom, although cargo space isn't as generous as that of similarly sized SUVs and compact wagons; blame the hybrid system's battery pack, which lives under the trunk floor. Still, there's more storage space than in a typical small sedan or hatchback — a comparison we think is fair because the C-Max is just as easy to maneuver and park in crowded urban areas.
Ford sells the C-Max Hybrid in SE and Titanium models. The SE comes with a list of useful standard equipment and several option packages that allow buyers to customize the car to their liking. The Titanium is lavishly equipped, with a long list of standard equipment and many advanced-technology options. Let Edmunds help find the perfect 2017 Ford C-Max Hybrid for you.
Is the 2017 Ford C-Max Hybrid a good car?
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2017 Ford C-Max Hybrid and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2017 C-Max Hybrid featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
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How do people like the 2017 Ford C-Max Hybrid?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2017 Ford C-Max Hybrid and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2017 C-Max Hybrid 4.5 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2017 C-Max Hybrid.
Vehicle
SE 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
Review
First off there are no tax credits available, because it is not a plug in...check out the CMAX Energi....but the first tank of gas lasted to almost 600 miles and accumulated MPGs =41. It is far easier to park with the standard backup camera, and space inside is comfortable in both front & back seat. Cargo space is enough for my traveling gym equipment, musical instruments, & a few filled grocery bags & the retractable cover is handy to conceal contents. Handling the vehicle in driving indicates a quick response to sudden steering changes with stability of holding, reasonable acceleration for merging or lane change or sudden evasive moves to avoid another vehicle. I like the interior lighting around the key entrance, and the turn signal lights on the rearview mirrors gives extra visibility to traffic.
See all consumer reviews and retings for the 2017 Ford C-Max Hybrid
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Is the 2017 Ford C-max-hybrid safe?
The 2017 Ford C-max-hybrid earned a 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and "GOOD" ratings from the IIHS in the following caregories: Side Impact Test, Roof Strength Test, Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint, Moderate Overlap Front Test Results, and a JD POWER overall quality rating of 2.0 out of 5. Among Edmunds' many tools and resources for finding your perfect car are detailed safety ratings and analysis from NHTSA, IIHS, and JD Power, including overall ratings, frontal barrier crash ratings, side impact tests and crash ratings, rollover test results, roof strength tests, rear crash protection and head restraint ratings, side barrier ratings, combined side barrier and pole ratings, and more.
What options are available on the 2017 Ford C-Max Hybrid?
Available Ford C-Max Hybrid 2017 Submodel Types: Wagon
Available Trims: SE, SEL, Titanium
Exterior Colors: Ingot Silver Metallic, Magnetic Metallic, Oxford White, Ruby Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat, Kona Blue Metallic, Shadow Black, White Platinum Metallic Tri-coat, Sterling Grey Metallic, Tuxedo Black Metallic, Blue Candy Metallic Tinted Clearcoat, Ice Storm Metallic, Blue Metallic, White Gold Metallic, Tectonic Metallic, White Platinum Metallic Tricoat
Interior Colors: Medium Light Stone leather, Charcoal Black cloth, Charcoal Black leather, Charcoal Black w/Sterling Stone Insert cloth, Medium Light Stone w/Medium Dark Stone cloth, Medium Light Stone w/Medium Dark Stone Surround cloth
Popular Features: Audio and cruise controls on steering wheel, Auto Climate Control, Aux Audio Inputs, Bluetooth, Fold Flat Rear Seats, Multi-Zone Climate Control, Post-collision safety system, Rear Bench Seats, Stability Control, Tire Pressure Warning, Trip Computer, USB Inputs, Alarm, Heated seats, Parking sensors, Leather Seats, Power Driver Seat, Keyless Entry/Start, Mobile Internet, Power Liftgate/Trunk, Navigation, Back-up camera, Sunroof/Moonroof, Upgraded Stereo, Blind Spot Monitoring, Remote Start, Apple Carplay/Android Auto
Engine/Mechanics: 4 cylinders
Transmission: AUTOMATIC
Fuel Types: regular unleaded
Drivetrains: front wheel drive
Edmunds attended a manufacturer-sponsored event, to which selected members of the press were invited, to facilitate this report.
