Many people away from the US are fascinated by the Ford C-Max bizarre design which actually makes it look like a blotted wagon. However, the odd shape has in fact created a unique market for itself where it does not really have a direct rival. The C-Max is offered in two flavors i.e. a traditional hybrid (Ford C-Max Hybrid) and the plug-in version (Ford C-Max Energi). The MPV has been given some slight visual upgrades for the 2017 model year.
The most notable change is the discontinuation of the SEL trim which has been replaced with a new Titanium trim. Already the C-Max Energi has created a market for itself as one of the top plug-in models in the market. Read along for more information:
2017 Ford C-Max Energi Exterior
The 2017 Ford C-Max Energi shares an identical front look with the new Ford Focus and Ford Fiesta. The model features just minor visual upgrades. Its two-level trapezoidal grille features a new surround characterised by an updated chrome trim. The front also features revised LED headlights with halogen projector lights and larger fog lights. Everything else is unchanged. Onto the side profile, the model features blinkers on the side mirrors, wider wheel arches and its door handles are slightly recessed into the doors.
The Comfort Package on the SE trim together with the Titanium trim feature heated side mirrors as standard features. The Energi runs on 17-inch composite wheels. The rear fascia is also almost identical to that of the outgoing model except for the new vertical taillights which replace horizontal units that were on the outgoing model. The taillights are identical to those of the Ford Focus sedan.
A new White Gold paintwork has replaced the Tectonic exterior color. In addition, the SEL trim has been replaced with optional packages available within the SE and the new Titanium trim. In addition, the automaker has used huge doses of chrome on different surfaces.
2017 Ford C-Max Energi Interior
Like the exterior, the cabin is largely unchanged compared to that of the outgoing model. The vehicle accommodates five passengers comfortably with plenty of headroom due to its tall roofline. On the base SE trim, the seats are wrapped in a quality cloth with an option for leather upholstery on the Comfort Package. Leather upholstery is standard on the Titanium trim. In addition, the Comfort Package and the Titanium trim feature a power driver’s seat as well as heated front seats.
The model also comes with the Ford’s MyKey which can be used to limit the car’s top speed and radio volume. This feature is standard across the trims. Other features include a fuel-economy display which promotes efficient driving, cruise control, steering-wheel-mounted controls, dual-zone climate control, an integrated garage door opener and a push-button start.
Choosing the SE Driver Assist package you get the automaker’s SYNC 3 infotainment system (I wish it is offered as a standard feature on all models), reverse sensors and a power liftgate. The Titanium trim on the other hand adds heated front seats, reverse sensors and a standard rear-view camera. The optional Driver Assist Package also adds a limited self-park function, blind-spot monitoring among other safety features. A panoramic glass roof, navigation system as well as a keypad placed on the driver’s door are offered as standalone features.
Drivetrain and performance
The 2017 Ford C-Max Energi is ideally a plug-in vehicle. The model uses the same engine as the base C-Max Hybrid. It features a 2.0 L, Atkinson-cycle mill which produces 141 horses. The engine combines with an AC synchronous motor which is paired with a larger battery than that of the C-Max Hybrid for a combined output of 188 horses. The likely motor is a 7.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that powers the current model. On the outgoing models, the battery pack provides an all-electric range of 21 miles up from 19 miles. The system is paired with a CVT system that channels power to the rear wheels.
The drive-train has been upgraded to offer a better fuel economy. The new unit is EPA rated at 97 mpg-e compared to the outgoing model’s 88 mpg-e rating on combined drives. In hybrid mode, the engine returns 38 mpg on combined drives. The battery is replenished either using a 240-volt socket which takes 2.5 hours or a 120-volt outlet which takes a whole 7 hours.
Price and release date
According to Ford, the 2017 C-Max Energi will go on-sale in December. The new C-Maxi Energi has an MSRP of $27,995 inclusive of destination charges for the SE trim. On the other hand, the Titanium trim attracts a price tag of $30,995. This represents a significant cost reduction by Ford that is meant to win over more customers.
Buyers can however get the Energi way cheaper once the government tax credits are factored in which can be as high as $4,007 IRS tax. Further in California, buyers will save between $1,500 and $3,000 in Clean Vehicle Rebate depending on the driver’s level of income.
Competition
There are no direct rivals of the C-Max Energi, however, I consider the following models as the top rivals; they are the Chevrolet Volt, Nissan Leaf, Honda Insight as well as the Toyota Prius.
