I appreciate the feedback. Most of my driving involves short trips under 20 mi, and in the Bay Area, I rarely need heat or air-conditioning. But driving only about 4k mi per year, I don't think I would ever make up the difference in cost between the SEL hybrid and the Energi in gas savings. But there is something to be said for just choosing the "greener" alternative. I am particularly intrigued by the posts from C-Max owners who say their only "regret" is not going with the Energi. I am also a little concerned about the cargo space reduction in the Energi. I often make runs to the airport with a couple of guests with a couple of pieces of luggage each. I also need a trunk big enough to conceal its contents while I'm traveling or shopping. I have used my Toyota Corolla Wagon for years for hauling furniture, storm doors, etc, but I'm getting a little too old for hauling heavy items anyway. I too like the fact that the C-Max seating position is high. I test drove a Lexus CT200h and loved the comfort of the driver's seat. But the driver is seated low. I'm not looking for a sports car feel, and getting in and out is difficult at my age. On the other hand, getting into and out of the Ford Escape was equally difficult for me, being too high. The C-Max was easy to enter and exit, just right. But for the colors. Sigh. I haven't seen an Ice Storm C-Max in a Bay Area dealership for months, but I think I would prefer to await the 2016 so that I can get the latest safety upgrades.