Ford C-MAX Hybrid
Ford had the Toyota Prius squarely in its sights when it launched the C-Max Hybrid in 2013. Like the Prius, the C-Max Hybrid offers excellent fuel economy and a surprisingly roomy cabin for a relatively affordable price. Ford’s version differentiates itself with a fun-to-drive nature that the Prius lacks. Owners also call out the C-Max Hybrid for its stylish cabin and refined powertrain. On the downside, some find its rear seats lacking in comfort. Additionally, the Ford, which was discontinued in 2019, lacks many active safety features and driving aids, including adaptive cruise control and forward collision mitigation.
Ford had the Toyota Prius squarely in its sights when it launched the C-Max Hybrid in 2013. Like the Prius, the C-Max Hybrid offers excellent fuel economy and a surprisingly roomy cabin for a relatively affordable price. Ford’s version differentiates itself with a fun-to-drive nature that the Prius lacks. Owners also call out the C-Max Hybrid for its stylish cabin and refined powertrain. On the downside, some find its rear seats lacking in comfort. Additionally, the Ford, which was discontinued in 2019, lacks many active safety features and driving aids, including adaptive cruise control and forward collision mitigation.
Ford C-MAX Hybrid Model Lineup
Produced from 2013 through 2018, the C-Max Hybrid is a five-passenger wagon with a hybrid powertrain. It’s the only hybrid wagon in Ford’s lineup, and it shares a platform and many components with the automaker’s popular compact hatchback, the Focus. Ford also sold a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version called the C-Max Energi, which is reviewed separately.
Motivating the C-Max Hybrid is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors and a 1.6-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack. Combined, they produce 188 horsepower, which is routed to the front wheels (only) via a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The setup achieves 40 mpg in mixed driving, according to the EPA.
Ford built the C-Max Hybrid in two main trims: the entry-level SE and the more upscale SEL, which was renamed Titanium in 2017. Standard equipment includes cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 4.2-inch infotainment display. Stepping up to the SEL or Titanium adds keyless entry and ignition, leather upholstery, heated front seats, and rear parking sensors. Some notable options include a panoramic sunroof, navigation, and an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, which gained Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration in 2017. A blind-spot monitoring system first became available in 2017; however, no other active safety features were offered on the C-Max Hybrid.
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Ford C-MAX Hybrid Owner Reviews
Average Rating for 2014
4.4
42 verified owner reviews
Top 2014 Reviews
Anna S. from GA
Verified Owner · Oct, 2015
2014 Ford C-MAX Hybrid SEL
LOVE OUR C-MAX
Richard S. from ME
Verified Owner · May, 2015
2014 Ford C-MAX Hybrid SEL
Have been pleasantly surprised by the features and capabilities of this new CMAX
Alice H. from CA
Verified Owner · Apr, 2015
2014 Ford C-MAX Hybrid SEL
So far I love my CMax. It is very easy to drive and I love the features it gives me.
Sharon M. from WI
Verified Owner · Mar, 2015
2014 Ford C-MAX Hybrid SE
The worst things about the Cmax I own is the light-colored seats. I almost didn't buy it because of it. I have to keep them covered all the time with my dogs. My cloth seats on my old 2003 Chevy Malibu were wonderful! I also would have liked it if the backup camera was standard like other cars. We bought this car because of the roominess because I have to transport my parents' places and they are not well and because it is towable with our RV. My husband is an ex mechanic and is totally impressed by the functionality of the car.
Jack H. from NJ
Verified Owner · Mar, 2015
2014 Ford C-MAX Hybrid SEL
I really enjoy driving my car and others who have seen and been in it are impressed with it.
Barry B. from UT
Verified Owner · Mar, 2015
2014 Ford C-MAX Hybrid SE
SE model needs to have a lighted key slot.
Beth G. from CA
Verified Owner · Jan, 2015
2014 Ford C-MAX Hybrid SEL
The car we purchased, the Ford C-Max, is the roomiest hybrid with the most headroom and best suited for tall people. That is why we initially chose to check it out.
Michael L. from IL
Verified Owner · Jan, 2015
2014 Ford C-MAX Hybrid SE
So far I am very pleased with my C-MAX