Based on the Focus, the five-passenger C-MAX hybrid is a clever, well-finished, and practical package. In our testing we have found that it rides well and handles with agility, with quick, linear steering. The car uses regenerative braking to help stretch fuel economy, but that makes the pedal a bit touchy. The 141-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder and electric motor deliver smooth, adequate acceleration, and the hybrid can operate in in full-electric mode at speeds up to 62 mph. In our tests we got 37 mpg overall, short of EPA's 47 mpg combined, but an excellent figure nonetheless. The Energi is the first plug-in hybrid from Ford, and can travel on electric power alone for about 20 miles at speeds up to 60 mph. The overall combined range is a claimed 500 miles.
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Ford Blog Content
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