darrelld Posted December 6, 2012 Report Share Posted December 6, 2012 (edited) What’s it like to drive? Until recently, securing the title for the best driving gas/electric hybrid was not unlike winning a world’s most athletic sloth contest. But Ford has added enthusiasm to the C-MAX’s environmental attributes. Its European roots are evident when this small wagon-like MPV is pushed on challenging two-lane roads. The EPAS rack and pinion steering is nicely on-center and the four-wheel disc brakes react in concert with the electric regeneration to arrest the 3,899-pound car. To overcome the C-MAX Energi’s battery weight penalty, Ford installs a 2.0-liter, 141-hp gas engine that works with its 88kW electric motor for a combined 188 hp. Acceleration under electric power is reasonable under most scenarios, even highway merging, and electric top speed is a useful 85mph. And with both engine and motor lit, the C-MAX feels as responsive as Ford’s Focus, with electricity making up for the additional mass. Front seating is comfortable for long rides with touch points softened and nicely finished materials sourced from recyclable materials where practical, adding to the car’s green credentials. Backseat occupants get a bit less space and smooth finish detail. Cabin noise is acceptable on smooth roads, raising a few decibels over coarse surfaces, which is not unusual for small vehicles. There’s plenty of headroom for tall adults: Even Honest Abe can keep his stovepipe hat on. Read more: http://www.autoweek.com/article/20121129/carreviews/121129852#ixzz2EEXM77be Edited December 6, 2012 by darrelld Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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