2016 Ford CMax Hybrid SE Review

07/11/2016

The C-MAX Hybrid is the perfect combination of fun-to-drive performance and innovative technology. Sophisticated design meets a power-split gas electric architecture generating 188 combined horsepower, giving you the best of both worlds and the most out of every ride.  This is a great commuter car – roomy with some great options and an excellent price point.  The C-MAX that I drove was not loaded, but it was also under $30,000.  The fuel savings alone makes this car an excellent buy for the commuter in your family, for a first car for your child or perhaps for your kids caregiver.

Although the model didn’t have leather, it does have available heated front seats and heated exterior mirrors, which is a great bonus in chilly Alberta.

The C-MAX Hybrid has done of great options:
1. NEXT-GENERATION SMARTGAUGE® WITH ECOGUIDE
The dual-LCD next-generation SmartGauge® with EcoGuide provides real-time information to help you maximize efficiency from your C-MAX Hybrid. The configurable MyView screen lets you customize displays to your liking. Screens, such as Brake Coach, help you drive more efficiently and can help you see engine power vs. lithium-ion battery power usage. Keeping tabs on your C-MAX Hybrid’s performance is easy with five-way steering wheel-mounted controls. As your driving efficiency increases, the right-side cluster display grows lush green leaves and vines. The C-MAX Hybrid’s battery charges through regenerative braking, recovering up to 90 per cent of the kinetic energy that would normally be lost during braking.

2. DEDICATED TO EFFICIENCY
Standard on the C-MAX Hybrid, Active Grille Shutters located behind the grille open and close to help maintain the ideal engine operating temperature. When less engine cooling is needed, the shutters close to help improve aerodynamics. Better aerodynamics means higher efficiency and less money spent on fuel.

3. STAYING CONNECTED WITH SYNC®
Hands-free calling – Make a call with a simple push of a button along with the sound of your voice, and the phone conversation can be heard through your vehicle speakers.
Automatic phone book download – Download the names and numbers programmed in your compatible phone automatically.
Music search and control – Music search and control – Use the voice-activated search or simply say “Bluetooth® audio” to stream your favourite content on your phone wirelessly.
No-extra-charge 911 Assist® – Connect your compatible cell phone to this convenient no-extra-charge feature. 911 Assist® can call for help in the case of an accident, even if you can’t. The 911 call goes directly through your properly connected cell phone without the need for intermediary assistance.

4. SAFETY FIRST
The 2016 Ford C-MAX Hybrid comes with a driver’s knee airbag to help protect you. Located under the steering wheel, the knee airbag works along with the driver’s front airbag. Also standard are front-seat side airbags and side-curtain airbags for a total of seven. The C-MAX Hybrid also includes a smart Front-Passenger Sensing System that uses sensors to detect if a front passenger is present. In the event of an accident, the SOS Post Crash Alert System™ activates the horn and emergency flashers.

5. VERSATILITY AT ITS FINEST
The C-MAX Hybrid’s 60/40 split fold second-row seat can easily be folded to provide a flat load floor. To fold the headrests out of the way, simply push a button on the side of each one. Second-row In-floor storage compartments provide versatile storage capabilities; simply lift up the floor mats and there’s room for everything from small personal items to a laptop or tablet.

The back seat and trunk both have ample room for a compact car.  I was able to put in my oversized rear facing Britax as well as forward facing car seats.  A trip to the grocery store is no problem with the flat trunk space.  The rear seats also fold forward giving even more storage capability.

6. AVAILABLE HEATED FRONT SEATS AND HEATED EXTERIOR MIRRORS
When the temperature drops and snow falls, the C-MAX Hybrid has you covered with heated front seats and heated exterior mirrors. The heated front seats have five comfort settings, and when you turn on the defroster, the heated exterior mirrors are also activated. The C-MAX Hybrid also features dual-zone automatic temperature control in the front row, letting you and your front-seat passenger set the temperatures to your individual likings.

MSRP $29274 CAD

Visit a Ford Store near you to give the C-MAX hybrid a test drive!