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In case it helps anyone, I have found it's possible to dramatically improve the cornering/handling of the C-max while keeping the ride quality very similar to stock with some relatively low cost mods. Rear swaybar - This is a *very* cost effective way of making the cmax more eager to turn in, and minimize understeer. A gen 1 Mazdaspeed3 rear sway bar is cheap and fits the C-max; you can use stock Ford end links. Summer tires - A big rear sway bar + decent summer tires will make the Cmax very responsive to steering inputs, and way more fun to drive. Swapping the wheels from my Focus ST, the grip levels actually feel very similar between the Cmax and ST. Comparing sound levels, the worn Focus ST tires (235/40/18 Goodyear Eagle F1 asymmetric 2 @3/32" tread depth) are 1-2db louder at 70mph on smooth concrete freeway vs. the OE Michelin Energy Saver AS tires at @5/32" depth. Rear shocks: Koni adjustable yellows for the Focus (8040 1351 Sport) fit; no drilling required. At the softest setting, the ride is close to stock, but still reduces the C-max's tendency to rebound and porpoise. I'm pretty satisfied with the soft setting, but will probably adjust them a bit stiffer at some point. With just the sway bar and tires, the C-max is more engaging in corners than my 2013 Focus was with similar mods. I think it's almost as satisfying in turns as one of my favorites, my 2005 Mazda 3.

This raises a BIG RED FLAG!!! for anyone having key fobs replaced by any dealer or locksmith. As far as I know all original key fobs came with a mechanical key from factory. The problem is that they are treated as a distant afterthought from then on & lost in the shuffle. The local Ford dealer replaced one of my fobs & did not switch out mechanical key from old to new & sadly I did not discover it until 3 weeks later. The lesson I & everyone should learn is they & myself is to CHECK KEY FOB EVERY TIME it is replaced. Thanks for the read.