Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Ford recalls 2013 Focus, C-Max and Escape over faulty child safety locks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/15/ford-recalls-2013-focus-c-max-and-escape-over-faulty-child-safe/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/15/ford-recalls-2013-focus-c-max-and-escape-over-faulty-child-safe/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/15/ford-recalls-2013-focus-c-max-and-escape-over-faulty-child-safe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



We have yet to find any official documentation from either Ford or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, but Edmunds and Cars.com are both reporting that there is a recall on the 2013 C-Max, Focus and Escape. All three vehicles were assembled with a faulty child door lock mechanism on the left rear door that might not work properly allowing a child to accidently open the door from the inside.

Affected vehicles were built in the middle of November, 2012 totaling somewhere between 5,600 and just over 7,000 units, and concerned owners can call Ford at 866-436-7332 or NHTSA at 888-327-4236 to see if their vehicles are involved in this recall. The recall doesn't go into effect until March 25, but in the meantime, owners can probably check the operation of the door or position children on the right side of the car, if possible, until the recall has been performed.

Ford recalls 2013 Focus, C-Max and Escape over faulty child safety locks originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Mar 2013 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford c-max2013 ford escape2013 ford focusc-maxc-max recallescapeescape recallfocusfocus recallfordford recallrecallFri, 15 Mar 2013 17:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20505180/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/15/ford-recalls-2013-focus-c-max-and-escape-over-faulty-child-safe/20505180/article-detail.xml 20505180 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2013-ford-c-max-hybrid-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2013-ford-c-max-hybrid-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Ford C-Max, Fusion hybrids subject of MPG lawsuit in California]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/01/ford-c-max-fusion-hybrids-subject-of-mpg-lawsuit-in-california/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/01/ford-c-max-fusion-hybrids-subject-of-mpg-lawsuit-in-california/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/01/ford-c-max-fusion-hybrids-subject-of-mpg-lawsuit-in-california/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid in blue - front three-quarter view

A California lawsuit over the fuel economy claims for the 2013 Ford C-Max was first reported back in December. Based on the numerous reports we've heard of disgruntled owners failing to get their car's EPA fuel economy ratings on the C-Max and 2013 Fusion Hybrid, we suspected there would be more to this story. The Detroit News is reporting that two California law firms are combining their lawsuits against Ford on this matter for "false and misleading" claims.

The article states that there are hundreds of C-Max and Fusion Hybrid owners who have joined the lawsuit, but the issue isn't limited to customers. In December, Consumer Reports extensively tested both the Fusion Hybrid and C-Max and found that both hybrids performed significantly worse than their EPA claims. This all comes just a few months after Hyundai and Kia took the unprecedented step of lowering the fuel economy ratings for all of their 2012 and 2013 model-year vehicles.

Ford C-Max, Fusion hybrids subject of MPG lawsuit in California originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Mar 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford c-max hybrid2013 ford fusion hybridc-maxfordford mpg lawsuitfusionfusion hybridfusion hybrid mpgFri, 01 Mar 2013 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20482976/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/01/ford-c-max-fusion-hybrids-subject-of-mpg-lawsuit-in-california/20482976/article-detail.xml 20482976 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2013-ford-c-max-hybrid-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2013-ford-c-max-hybrid-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #319]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/05/autoblog-podcast-319/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/05/autoblog-podcast-319/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/05/autoblog-podcast-319/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Jeep Grand Wagoneer, Hagerty's Future Classics, Consumer Reports Brand Perception Survey autoblog podcast logo

Episode #319 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Jeff Ross talk about a team from Jeep visiting Wagonmaster for ideas to use on the upcoming Grand Wagoneer revival, Hagerty Insurance's predictions for future collectible classics, and Toyota, Ford and Honda topping the latest Consumer Reports brand perception survey. We wrap with your questions, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. Keep reading for our Q&A module for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #319:



Topics:


In the Autoblog Garage:
2013 Chevrolet Spark
2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid


Hosts: Dan Roth, Zach Bowman, Jeff Ross


Runtime: 01:23:28

Get the podcast
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Autoblog Podcast #319 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Feb 2013 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 chevrolet spark2013 ford c-max hybridautoblogautoblog podcastautoblog podcast 319c-maxc-max hybridchevroletconsumer reportsfeaturedfordfuture clasicgrand wagoneerhagertyhagerty insurancehondajeeppodcastpodcast 319sparktoyotawagoneerwagonmasterTue, 05 Feb 2013 16:15:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #319Autoblog01:23:28 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20448643/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/05/autoblog-podcast-319/20448643/article-detail.xml 20448643 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[2013 North American Car and Truck/Utility of the Year finalists announced [w/poll]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/12/2013-north-american-car-and-truck-utility-of-the-year-finalists/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/12/2013-north-american-car-and-truck-utility-of-the-year-finalists/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/12/2013-north-american-car-and-truck-utility-of-the-year-finalists/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

North American Car of the Year crystal award

2012 is almost in the books and automakers are spending December gearing up for the 2013 auto show season, which tips off next month at the Detroit Auto Show. Traditionally, the latter opens up with the announcement of the North American Car and Truck/Utility of the Year awards, and this year figures to be no different.

But up until this moment, we didn't know which six vehicles would be parked ahead of the stage as finalists, with executives and engineers waiting for the winners to be disclosed. Whittled down from October's "short list" of nominees (11 cars and 10 truck/utility vehicles), the finalists are as follows:

2013 North American Car of the Year:
2013 North American Truck/Utility of the Year:
As determined by a non-profit, independent jury of 50 US and Canadian journalists(*), the pair of lists above arguably feature a surprise or two, and they open up some potentially interesting story lines. Will the Ford and Honda, which compete against each other in the marketplace, split votes among jurors who only want to vote for one family sedan? Did the Scion FR-S/Subaru BRZ twins miss making the finalists' list because they were listed as separate entries, or did they just not win over enough jurors? Until the voting patterns of the jurors are released (after the awards are announced), we won't really know if any of these scenarios played into the calculations.

What do you think of these six vehicles? Which would you vote for? Which do you think will win? Participate in our polls below by guessing which vehicles will win, then state your case for who should win in Comments.

*Full disclosure: Author is a NACTOY jury member.

View Poll


View Poll

Continue reading 2013 North American Car and Truck/Utility of the Year finalists announced [w/poll]

2013 North American Car and Truck/Utility of the Year finalists announced [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 Dec 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>15002013 cadillac ats2013 ford c-max2013 ford fusion2013 honda accord2013 mazda cx-52013 ram 1500accordatsc-maxcadillaccx-5fordfusionhondamazdanactoynorth american car of the yearNorth American truck of the yearnorth american truck utility of the yearramWed, 12 Dec 2012 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20400146/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/12/2013-north-american-car-and-truck-utility-of-the-year-finalists/20400146/article-detail.xml 20400146 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/nactoy-award-crystal_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/nactoy-award-crystal.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Consumer Reports</i> calls out Ford for false Fusion, C-Max hybrid fuel economy claims]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/06/consumer-reports-calls-out-ford-for-false-fusion-c-max-h/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/06/consumer-reports-calls-out-ford-for-false-fusion-c-max-h/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/06/consumer-reports-calls-out-ford-for-false-fusion-c-max-h/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Consumer Reports is calling out Ford, saying the new C-Max and Fusion hybrids don't get anywhere near the 47 miles per gallon the automaker claims.

Several automakers have faced backlash after consumers discovered their cars don't quite hit the lofty fuel economy figures promised by the companies, and Ford may be the newest casualty of all this pesky fact-checking by critics and watchdogs.

The magazine drove the cars 2,000 miles and consistently got around 39 mpg for the Fusion and 37 mpg for the C-Max. Jake Fisher, director of auto testing for Consumer Reports, said this is the largest discrepancy between what automakers MPG claims and the actual real-world driving results.

"It's not to say these are bad cars at all; they still get excellent fuel economy," Fisher said. "But we've been doing this for a long time, and we've never seen such a difference between the EPA estimates and our numbers."

Ford said its figures were certified by the EPA, but the EPA only tests about 10 to 15 percent of the cars on the road. Ford said some early reports from customers showed the cars getting even better fuel economy than 47 mpg.

"This reinforces the fact that driving styles, driving conditions, and other factors can cause mileage to vary," said Wes Sherwood, a spokesman for Ford. For customers who want to optimize their fuel economy, the cars come with different driving coach software to help drivers get better fuel economy, he said.

Scroll down to watch the video report from Consumer Reports.

Continue reading Consumer Reports calls out Ford for false Fusion, C-Max hybrid fuel economy claims

Consumer Reports calls out Ford for false Fusion, C-Max hybrid fuel economy claims originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Dec 2012 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford c-max hybrid2013 ford fusion hybridc-maxc-max hybridcmaxconsumer reportsfordfuel economyfusionfusion hybridmpgvideoThu, 06 Dec 2012 16:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20396331/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/06/consumer-reports-calls-out-ford-for-false-fusion-c-max-h/20396331/article-detail.xml 20396331 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/crvideo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/crvideo.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Ford C-Max Energi]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/15/2013-ford-c-max-energi-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/15/2013-ford-c-max-energi-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/15/2013-ford-c-max-energi-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Adding EV Capacity To Ford's Ultra-Flexible C-Max

2013 Ford C-Max Energi - front three-quarter view

The world of the gasoline-electric hybrid vehicle is evolving at a far more rapid pace today than it has at any other point in its 12 or so years of existence. The emergence of newer, more compact and more powerful batteries, with quickly rising expectations for fuel economy on the part of the American consumer, as well as regular spikes in gas prices have all worked to create conditions that are excellent for hybrid-car development.

To date, Toyota has been the best at surfing this ever-growing wave of hybrid demand, but in the last year, Ford's plan to offer the most fuel efficient product in every market segment has started to bear fruit. From comparatively frugal turbocharged V6 power in its pickup trucks and utilities, all the way to fully electric vehicles, the current and pending line of Ford vehicles hopes to set economy standards for the rest of the industry. The C-Max, Ford's tall, narrow and capacious ode to European people movers is, perhaps, the most apt at carrying forward the message of the brand's new found fuel-frugalness, with both a hybrid model and this new plug-in hybrid, the C-Max Energi.

Continue reading 2013 Ford C-Max Energi

2013 Ford C-Max Energi originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Nov 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford c-max energic-maxc-max energienergifeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivefordThu, 15 Nov 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20380250/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/15/2013-ford-c-max-energi-first-drive-review/20380250/article-detail.xml 20380250 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-ford-c-max-energi-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-ford-c-max-energi-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Ford announces plan to close Belgian plant, restructure European manufacturing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/24/ford-announces-plan-to-close-belgian-plant-restructure-european/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/24/ford-announces-plan-to-close-belgian-plant-restructure-european/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/24/ford-announces-plan-to-close-belgian-plant-restructure-european/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The latest development in this ongoing saga that is the European economic crunch is word that Ford will shutter production of its Genk Assembly Plant in Belgium, eliminating some 4,300 positions. Ford could potentially reduce costs by $300 to $500 million annually as a resulting of closing the production facility. The Genk plant currently produces the Mondeo, S-MAX and Galaxy vehicles. Assembly of these vehicles would cease at the plant by the end of 2014.

According to Ford, it lost $404 million in the European market. Its losses in Europe for the year have been estimated anywhere from $1 billion to 1.5 billion.

Ford's European production capacity could be reduced by 15 to 20 percent by closing the plant, according to Morgan Stanley Research. And Itay Michaeli, an analyst at Citi Investment Research, explained that the closure of the Belgian plant won't improve Ford's profits. In fact, the costs associated with closing the plant could be close to $1 billion.

But, According to Ford, it needs to restructure to combat slow sales in Europe. In a press release from the company, it is said that production of the Mondeo, S-MAX and Galaxy could move to Ford's Valencia, Spain facility. It is also said that production of the C-MAX and Grand C-MAX could move from Valencia to Saarlouis, Germany, in 2014. Ford says is will divulge further restructuring details tomorrow. In the meantime, check out the press release regarding Ford's European plans below.

Continue reading Ford announces plan to close Belgian plant, restructure European manufacturing

Ford announces plan to close Belgian plant, restructure European manufacturing originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Oct 2012 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c-maxfordford c-maxford europeford galaxygalaxygenkplant closingWed, 24 Oct 2012 16:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20359407/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/24/ford-announces-plan-to-close-belgian-plant-restructure-european/20359407/article-detail.xml 20359407 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/ford-plant-genk-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/ford-plant-genk-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/27/2013-ford-c-max-hybrid-first-drive-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/27/2013-ford-c-max-hybrid-first-drive-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/27/2013-ford-c-max-hybrid-first-drive-review-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

No One Ever Said Dethroning A Prius Would Be Easy

2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid

It's generally not polite to start a story about a new Ford by referencing a very popular Toyota, but we're going to make an exception this time.

With fuel prices continuing to creep upwards, sales of advanced-powertrain vehicles are booming (in May of this year alone, nearly 46,000 units left showrooms). While some vehicles, like the Chevrolet Volt and Nissan Leaf, soldier forth with modest sales from month-to-month, Toyota's Prius family of vehicles (the standard Prius, smaller Prius C, larger Prius V and Prius Plug-In Hybrid) consistently leads the sales race. Understandably, that places a big red target on their backs.

Aiming its scope, and bracketing wisely, Ford is introducing a slew of new advance-powertrain models over the next year. These include full hybrid, plug-in hybrid and all-electric vehicles. One of the first to arrive is the all-new C-Max Hybrid, which has the Prius V aligned in its crosshairs, and not a single person carrying a Blue Oval business card is keeping it a secret.

To determine whether or not the new Ford has the right stuff to challenge the Prius V, we put one through its paces in Southern California last week.

Continue reading 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid [w/video]

2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Aug 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 c-max2013 ford2013 ford c-max hybrid2013 hybridc-maxc-max hybridfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivefordford c-maxford c-max hybridford hybridMon, 27 Aug 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20309240/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/27/2013-ford-c-max-hybrid-first-drive-review-video/20309240/article-detail.xml 20309240 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2013-ford-c-max-hybrid-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2013-ford-c-max-hybrid-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Ford C-Max Hybrid officially gets 47 mpg across the board; Energi hits 85 mph in EV mode]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/07/ford-c-max-hybrid-officially-gets-47-mpg-across-the-board-energ/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/07/ford-c-max-hybrid-officially-gets-47-mpg-across-the-board-energ/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/07/ford-c-max-hybrid-officially-gets-47-mpg-across-the-board-energ/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid - overhead front three-quarter view, silver

Two new announcements about Ford and its upcoming C-Max line of vehicles arrived today, emphasizing the vehicles' efficiency and electric performance.

For the C-Max Hybrid, the previously predicted miles per gallon rating of 47 mpg is now official, per the EPA, and will apply across the board. That means city, highway and combined mileage ratings are all 47. As anyone Ford can reach with a PR blast knows, this beats at least one of the mpg numbers for the Toyota Prius V by seven mpg. The world's most popular hybrid lineup, in V guise, gets 44 mpg in the city, 40 on the highway and 42 combined. The standard Prius Liftback version, of course, gets 51 city, 48 highway and 50 combined.

More interesting, perhaps, is the news that the plug-in Energi model will be able to go up to 85 miles per hour in all-electric mode. Once again, Ford is hammering the Prius comparison, saying that speed is "more than 20 mph higher than Toyota Prius plug-in." The C-Max Hybrid can go up to 62 miles an hour in EV mode.

To engage EV mode in the C-Max Energi, Ford uses a "unique EV mode button allows customers to deliver electric power on-demand." We're not sure what makes it unique (other plug-ins have powertrain mode selector buttons), but it does have three modes: EV Now (where the car is only moved by battery power, as long as it's available), EV Auto (normal operation, with both battery and gas engine used for propulsion) or EV Later, a "battery-saving mode that reserves the pack power for later use." (Think of the Chevrolet Volt mountain mode.) The Energi goes on sale in limited areas this fall and nationwide in early 2013.

Oh, Ford also says, "With a fully charged battery, C-MAX Energi is rated at 195 horsepower, versus 188 horsepower for Toyota Prius." It's pretty clear which competitors Ford is going after here, isn't it?

Continue reading Ford C-Max Hybrid officially gets 47 mpg across the board; Energi hits 85 mph in EV mode

Ford C-Max Hybrid officially gets 47 mpg across the board; Energi hits 85 mph in EV mode originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Aug 2012 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford c-max energi2013 ford c-max hybridc-maxc-max energic-max fuel economyc-max hybridelectric vehiclefordplug-in hybridTue, 07 Aug 2012 13:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20295367/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/07/ford-c-max-hybrid-officially-gets-47-mpg-across-the-board-energ/20295367/article-detail.xml 20295367 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/ford-c-max-hybrid-628g_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/ford-c-max-hybrid-628g.jpg <![CDATA[Ford C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid priced at $29,995 after tax credit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/ford-c-max-energi-plug-in-hybrid-priced-at-33-745-or-29-995-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/ford-c-max-energi-plug-in-hybrid-priced-at-33-745-or-29-995-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/ford-c-max-energi-plug-in-hybrid-priced-at-33-745-or-29-995-a/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The U.S. federal tax credit for plug-in vehicles maxes out at $7,500 for cars with batteries that are 16 kWh or larger. The Ford C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid doesn't have that big of a pack, so the most the feds will grant you for buying one is $3,750. Still, the Energi's just-announced price of $33,745 is competitive in the plug-in space, since most people will end up paying $29,995.

Ford calls the Energi "America's most affordable plug-in hybrid," but that would seem to be just barely the case. The $33,745 price includes destination fees. The Toyota Prius Plug-In, with those fees, is priced at $32,760, and it qualifies for $2,500 in federal tax credits, so it comes to $30,260 in the end. That's just $265 more than the Energi. To make another comparison, the regular hybrid C-Max will cost $25,995, including destination. Both of these Ford vehicles will be available later this year.

The C-Max Energi is Ford's first production plug-in hybrid and has a 20-mile all-electric range and 95 miles per gallon equivalent rating. If you'd like to build your own Ford C-Max Energi, the configurator website is here.

Continue reading Ford C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid priced at $29,995 after tax credit

Ford C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid priced at $29,995 after tax credit originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Jul 2012 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 ford c-max energic-maxc-max energifordplug-in hybridTue, 24 Jul 2012 09:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20284679/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/24/ford-c-max-energi-plug-in-hybrid-priced-at-33-745-or-29-995-a/20284679/article-detail.xml 20284679 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2013-ford-c-max-energi-3-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2013-ford-c-max-energi-3-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ford C-Max Energi will have 20-mile electric range, get 95 MPGe [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/22/ford-c-max-energi-will-have-20-mile-electric-range-get-95-mpge/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/22/ford-c-max-energi-will-have-20-mile-electric-range-get-95-mpge/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/22/ford-c-max-energi-will-have-20-mile-electric-range-get-95-mpge/#comments2013 Ford C-Max Energi Plug-In Hybrid

Ford's marketing strategy for its plug-in vehicles is coming into Focus (pun intended): compare, compare, compare.

When announcing the Focus Electric's 105 miles per gallon equivalent, for example, Ford made sure to note that it beats the "Nissan Leaf by 6 MPGe while also offering more motor power, passenger room and standard features. Customers can make more use of this efficiency with Ford's faster charging technology that can recharge Focus Electric in about half the time of Nissan Leaf." With the C-Max Hybrid, Ford said it would get better mileage than the Toyota Prius V. Today, Ford is revealing more details about the C-Max Energi Plug-In Hybrid, and the press release says it offers "nearly double electric-only range of Prius."

What does that mean, aside from some numerical chest puffery? Ford says the electric range of the Energi PHEV will be "more than 20 miles" and that the car's full-tank-of-gas-plus-electricity range is 550 miles. On top of that, the C-Max Energi is expected to get 95 MPGe (Ford expects its Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid to get 100 MPGe). It may not be saying much, but Ford also says that the Energi has a "maximum electric-only speed projected to top that of Prius plug-in." The C-Max Hybrid will be available this fall with a base price of $25,995, including destination and delivery.

Oh, by the way, Ford would like you to know that that price is "$1,300 lower than Toyota Prius V."

Watch a promotional video of the C-Max below.

Continue reading Ford C-Max Energi will have 20-mile electric range, get 95 MPGe [w/video]

Ford C-Max Energi will have 20-mile electric range, get 95 MPGe [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 22 Jul 2012 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c-maxc-max energy plug-in hybridelectric vehiclefordford c-maxford c-max energimpgeplug-in hybridSun, 22 Jul 2012 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20282494/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/22/ford-c-max-energi-will-have-20-mile-electric-range-get-95-mpge/20282494/article-detail.xml 20282494 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2013-ford-c-max-energi-plug-in-hybrid-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2013-ford-c-max-energi-plug-in-hybrid-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ford C-Max pricing to undercut Toyota Prius V]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/ford-c-max-pricing-to-undercut-toyota-prius-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/ford-c-max-pricing-to-undercut-toyota-prius-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/ford-c-max-pricing-to-undercut-toyota-prius-v/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

2013 Ford C-MAX front-three-quarter overhead view, silver

Ford dealers have started taking orders for the 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid, the company announced today.

The gas-electric hybrid will arrive later this year with a starting price of $25,995, undercutting its most direct competitor, the Toyota Prius V hybrid, which has a base price of $26,550.

"C-Max Hybrid offers better fuel economy, performance, technology and functionality than Prius V - and C-Max Hybrid customers will pay less at the dealership and at the pump," said Ken Czubay, vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service, in a press release.

More importantly, Ford will provide some stiffer competition for Toyota, which has ruled the hybrid market, selling 77 percent of all hybrids in the U.S. this April. The C-Max will only be offered in the U.S. as a hybrid, similar to Toyota's Prius strategy. There will also be an all-electric version, known as the C-Max Energi, that arrives this fall.

Ford sells the C-Max, which is built on Ford's compact car platform, in Europe as a gas powered model. Since introducing this utility vehicle in 2010, Ford has sold more than 150,000 C-Max vehicles in Europe.

Continue reading Ford C-Max pricing to undercut Toyota Prius V

Ford C-Max pricing to undercut Toyota Prius V originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 May 2012 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 ford cmaxc-maxc-max hybrid pricingc-max pricingcmaxcmax hybridcmax pricingfordhybridThu, 17 May 2012 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20240107/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/17/ford-c-max-pricing-to-undercut-toyota-prius-v/20240107/article-detail.xml 20240107 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2013-ford-focus-c-max-hybrid_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2013-ford-focus-c-max-hybrid.jpg <![CDATA[Ford says Focus Electric will get 100 MPGe, C-Max models also ready to compete]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/14/ford-says-focus-electric-will-get-100-mpge-c-max-models-also-re/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/14/ford-says-focus-electric-will-get-100-mpge-c-max-models-also-re/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/14/ford-says-focus-electric-will-get-100-mpge-c-max-models-also-re/#comments

Oh, what a difference one seat makes. Ford just announced that the Focus Electric will be, "the first all-electric vehicle to achieve a 100 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) fuel efficiency rating." But wait, you're saying, what about the Mitsubishi i, which gets 112 MPGe? Ah, this is when you finish reading Ford's sentence, which ends, "with seating for five." The i is rated as a four-seat (two-plus-two) vehicle while the Focus is a "normal" five-seater.

100 MPGe is just one selling point for Ford's upcoming EV. The other is faster charging technology that allows the Focus EV, "to charge in half the time of a Nissan Leaf using 240-volt outlets." That means a three- to four-hour recharge time.

On the plug-in hybrid side, Ford also announced that the C-Max Energi is expected to have "miles per gallon equivalent rating in electric mode better than Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid" and the C-Max Hybrid (non-plug-in) should get "better fuel economy than Toyota Prius V." The C-Max Energi "is expected to deliver a better fuel economy equivalent in electric mode than the Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid with a 500-mile overall driving range, more than Chevrolet Volt." Even though it's not ready to give us a lot of numbers for the C-Max models quite yet, it's clear that Ford is getting ready to take on the best-selling fuel-efficient cars in the U.S. in 2012.

In California, New York and New Jersey, the first orders for the 2012 Focus Electric were taken in November. Fifteen more launch markets will open up next year. The Focus Electric has started production at Ford's Michigan Assembly Plant. The C-Max models also go on sale in 2012.

Continue reading Ford says Focus Electric will get 100 MPGe, C-Max models also ready to compete

Ford says Focus Electric will get 100 MPGe, C-Max models also ready to compete originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c-maxc-max energic-max hybridelectric vehicleford c-maxford focus electricford mpgeplug-in hybridWed, 14 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20127788/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/14/ford-says-focus-electric-will-get-100-mpge-c-max-models-also-re/20127788/article-detail.xml 20127788 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-2012-ford-focus-electric_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-2012-ford-focus-electric.jpg <![CDATA[Ford 1.0L EcoBoost three-cylinder finds a home in the Euro-spec Focus]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/12/ford-1-0l-ecoboost-three-cylinder-finds-a-home-in-the-euro-spec/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/12/ford-1-0l-ecoboost-three-cylinder-finds-a-home-in-the-euro-spec/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/12/ford-1-0l-ecoboost-three-cylinder-finds-a-home-in-the-euro-spec/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

ford focus

Ford's EcoBoost offerings may have started off big and powerful, but the Blue Oval is quickly moving towards small and thrifty. Ford will soon offer its smallest turbocharged offering yet, as a new 1.0-liter, three-cylinder has been announced in advance of the Frankfurt Motor Show.

The new EcoBoost engine will be available in the Ford Focus, C-Max and B-Max, and it will be available in 99 horsepower and 118 hp variants. A respectable 125 pound-feet of torque is available from a scant 1,300 rpm thanks to a turbocharger that can spool up to 250,000 revolutions per minute. Ford was able to extract so much power out of such a small, boosted engine thanks to improved twin variable camshaft design and an exhaust manifold cast that is cast into the cylinder head. And get this: While other EcoBoost offerings start with an aluminum block, the 1.0-liter includes an iron engine block, which isn't only cheaper, it reduces engine warmup time by 50 percent.

The key benefits sought from engine downsizing, of course, are improved fuel economy and lowered emissions. In this scenario, Ford promises 120 g/km C02, which works out to right around 45.5 miles per gallon (U.S.) on the European cycle. That 120 g/km figure, in case you're wondering, is identical to the much smaller Scion iQ, which gets a 36 city / 37 highway EPA rating. The diminutive engine will be fitted with five-speed and six-speed manual transmissions.

The three-liter EcoBoost will start off as a Europe-only affair, arriving early in 2012. Ford hasn't announced any availability of this engine in the U.S., though presumably consistently high fuel prices could change that over time. Hit the jump to read over the Ford press release.

Continue reading Ford 1.0L EcoBoost three-cylinder finds a home in the Euro-spec Focus

Ford 1.0L EcoBoost three-cylinder finds a home in the Euro-spec Focus originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Sep 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>b-maxc-maxecoboostfocusfordfrankfurtthree-cylinderMon, 12 Sep 2011 14:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20039373/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/12/ford-1-0l-ecoboost-three-cylinder-finds-a-home-in-the-euro-spec/20039373/article-detail.xml 20039373 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/lead1-2012-ford-focus-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/lead1-2012-ford-focus-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Ford uses dog-powered Rube Goldberg device to demonstrate C-Max park assist]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/20/ford-uses-dog-powered-rube-goldberg-device-to-demonstrate-c-max/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/20/ford-uses-dog-powered-rube-goldberg-device-to-demonstrate-c-max/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/20/ford-uses-dog-powered-rube-goldberg-device-to-demonstrate-c-max/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ford C-Max Commercial
Ford C-Max Commercial - Click above to watch video after the jump

Ford has you covered if you're needing a video fur fix. The automaker has turned to a canine-powered Rube Goldberg device to help demonstrate the park assist system on its C-Max people mover. A pack of talented dogs play integral parts in a mechanism that unfurls a banner announcing the MPV's talents. Along the way, there are Hot Wheels cars, Nerf arrows and even a big wheel tricycle. We're not entirely sure what dogs and toys have to do with parallel parking, but we aren't in advertising, either.

To our eyes, this spot lacks the clever simplicity of the groundbreaking 'Cog' ad from Honda a few years back, and we're apparently not artistic enough to know why the colors in the video are so washed out (okay, so it's probably just a bad copy), but the good news is that it's still entertaining to watch a scruffy mutt parallel park a C-Max. Hit the jump to check out the video for yourself.

Continue reading Ford uses dog-powered Rube Goldberg device to demonstrate C-Max park assist

Ford uses dog-powered Rube Goldberg device to demonstrate C-Max park assist originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Jun 2011 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 ford c-maxc-maxcmaxcommercialfordford c-maxford commercialford francevideoMon, 20 Jun 2011 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19971507/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/20/ford-uses-dog-powered-rube-goldberg-device-to-demonstrate-c-max/19971507/article-detail.xml 19971507 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/c-max-dog_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/c-max-dog.jpg <![CDATA[Ford cancels seven-passenger C-Max for U.S., focuses solely on Hybrid and Energi models]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/09/ford-cancels-seven-passenger-c-max-for-north-america-focuses-so/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/09/ford-cancels-seven-passenger-c-max-for-north-america-focuses-so/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/09/ford-cancels-seven-passenger-c-max-for-north-america-focuses-so/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2012 Ford C-Max
2012 Ford C-Max - Click above for high-res image gallery

Turns out Americans won't be getting another crack at a Euro-style mini minivan. Ford has officially canceled plans for its seven-passenger C-Max for the United States. Fans of small-in-stature MPVs may still be able to find what they are looking for in the Mazda5, but definitely not in Ford dealerships.

The retraction of the seven-seater means the U.S. market will be left with the C-Max Hybrid and C-Max Energi electric vehicle. These vehicles eschew the minivan-spec sliding side doors in favor of four regularly hinged portals and a rear hatchback. The Hybrid is expected to boast better than 41 miles per gallon on the highway, while the plug-in Energi promises to boast 500 miles of driving range from its battery and gasoline engine combined, along with better fuel efficiency than the Chevrolet Volt. We look forward to verifying those claims.

Ford is keen to point out that the C-Max Hybrid and C-Max Energi (yep, spelled with an 'i') models will be built alongside its 2012 Ford Focus and Focus Electric at the Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Mich. Why is that important? Assuming all goes to plan, Wayne will be the first plant in the world to produce gasoline-powered vehicles, full-electric vehicles, hybrid and plug-in hybrids under the same roof.

If you'd like, you're free to peruse the official press release after the break, which is not surprisingly focused much more on the two promised green-mobile five-seaters than on the death of the seven-seater. Now, if you'll excuse us for a moment, we're going to don our solid-black Sunday Bests and mourn the passing of Ford's planned seven-seater. Poor thing never even had a chance...

Continue reading Ford cancels seven-passenger C-Max for U.S., focuses solely on Hybrid and Energi models

Ford cancels seven-passenger C-Max for U.S., focuses solely on Hybrid and Energi models originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Jun 2011 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c-maxc-max energic-max hybridc-max minivanc-max mpvfordgrand c-maxminivanmpvwayne assemblyThu, 09 Jun 2011 13:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19963043/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/09/ford-cancels-seven-passenger-c-max-for-north-america-focuses-so/19963043/article-detail.xml 19963043 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/ford-c-max-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/ford-c-max-630.jpg <![CDATA[Detroit 2011: 2012 Ford C-Max struts its mini-minivan stuff]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/10/2012-ford-c-max-detroit-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/10/2012-ford-c-max-detroit-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/10/2012-ford-c-max-detroit-2011/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Ford C-Max
2012 Ford C-Max - Click above for high-res image gallery

Small MPVs are all the rage in Europe, but here in North America - the land of "bigger is better" - these moderately-sized people-haulers have never quite sold in droves. Ford firmly believes that it's time to bring the small MPV segment back to North America, and the 2012 C-Max is its first foray into offering this sort of pint-sized family-hauling package here in America.

We've already driven (and enjoyed) the European-spec Grand C-Max, and the good news is that not much will change mechanically before the car arrives here in the States. A 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine will be the base powertrain with an all-new 1.6-liter EcoBoost inline-four being the up-level mill. The C-Max offers seating for seven (or "five plus two," as Ford says), and the latest crop of Blue Oval tech will be found inside.

The C-Max will go on sale later this year shortly after production begins at Ford's Michigan Assembly Plant. We've just finished perusing the new C-Max live at Cobo Hall during the opening hours of the 2011 Detroit Auto Show, so scroll through our high-res gallery of live shots to see the new MPV in the flesh.


Gallery: 2012 Ford C-Max: Detroit 2011

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Gallery: 2012 Ford C-Max

2012 Ford C-Max2012 Ford C-Max2012 Ford C-Max2012 Ford C-Max2012 Ford C-Max

Live photos copyright (C)2011 Steven J. Ewing / AOL

Detroit 2011: 2012 Ford C-Max struts its mini-minivan stuff originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Jan 2011 09:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 detroit2011 detroit auto show2011 naias2012 ford c-maxc-maxdetroitfordnaiasnorth american international auto showMon, 10 Jan 2011 09:08:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19794204/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/10/2012-ford-c-max-detroit-2011/19794204/article-detail.xml 19794204 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/00-2012-ford-c-max-detroit-1294662265_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/00-2012-ford-c-max-detroit-1294662265.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Ford C-Max Energi and C-Max Hybrid offer two options for fuel-sipping MPVs]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/10/2013-ford-c-max-energi-c-max-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/10/2013-ford-c-max-energi-c-max-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/10/2013-ford-c-max-energi-c-max-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Ford C-Max Energi
Ford C-Max Energi - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've already told you about the 2012 Ford C-Max, the Blue Oval's new mini-minivan that's set to launch here in North America later this year. The C-Max story doesn't end with just the one gasoline-powered model, though - Ford is bringing two more versions of its small people mover to the 2011 Detroit Auto Show: the C-Max Energi and C-Max Hybrid.

What's important to note is that while the gasoline C-Max with sliding doors is actually based on the three-row Grand C-Max that Ford sells in other markets, the Hybrid and Energi use conventional front-hinged rear doors and seat five, just like the shorter-wheelbase C-Max available in Europe. The automaker's kinetic design language is in full force here, and the Aston Martin-like grille on these smaller C-Max models resembles what first debuted on Ford's Focus Electric at last week's Consumer Electronics Show.

2013 Ford C-Max HybridThe C-Max Hybrid uses the Blue Oval's next-generation gasoline/electric powertrain technology, and we're told that fuel economy will be higher than the 41 miles per gallon that's currently on tap in the Fusion Hybrid sedan. By building upon the powersplit technology currently used in the automaker's hybrids, Ford says that the C-Max Hybrid will be able to operate in electric mode at speeds higher than 47 miles per hour.

The big story here, however, is the C-Max Energi, which is essentially a range-extended plug-in hybrid that's not completely unlike the Chevrolet Volt. Ford is targeting an overall driving range of more than 500 miles using both the battery-backed motor and Atkinson-cycle engine, and much like the Focus Electric, the automaker's new MyFord Mobile software will allow users to monitor the C-Max Energi's charging state while on the go.

Both the C-Max Hybrid and Energi will be built alongside the standard C-Max at Ford's Michigan Assembly Plant starting in 2012, with European models being built in Valencia, Spain starting in 2013. Follow the jump for the full details in Ford's press release, and check out each version of the new C-Max in our high-res galleries below.


Gallery: 2013 Ford C-Max Energi

2013 Ford C-Max Energi2013 Ford C-Max Energi2013 Ford C-Max Energi2013 Ford C-Max Energi2013 Ford C-Max Energi

Gallery: 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid

2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading 2013 Ford C-Max Energi and C-Max Hybrid offer two options for fuel-sipping MPVs

2013 Ford C-Max Energi and C-Max Hybrid offer two options for fuel-sipping MPVs originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Jan 2011 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 detroit2011 detroit auto show2011 naias2013 ford c-max energi2013 ford c-max hybridc-maxc-max energic-max hybriddetroitdetroit 2011detroit auto showfordnaiasnorth american international auto showMon, 10 Jan 2011 00:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19790008/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/10/2013-ford-c-max-energi-c-max-hybrid/19790008/article-detail.xml 19790008 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/01-ford-c-max-energi630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/01-ford-c-max-energi630opt.jpg <![CDATA[Video: 2012 Ford C-Max demonstrates its hands-free liftgate]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/20/video-2012-ford-c-max-demonstrates-its-hands-free-liftgate/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/20/video-2012-ford-c-max-demonstrates-its-hands-free-liftgate/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/20/video-2012-ford-c-max-demonstrates-its-hands-free-liftgate/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Ford C-Max
2012 Ford C-Max shows off its hands-free liftgate - Click above to watch the video after the jump

Call us weird, but we're rather excited for the 2012 Ford C-Max to launch here in the United States. The majority of today's minivans are anything but, and as more people look to downsize and seek out the most efficient vehicles to fit their lifestyles, small MPVs have a real chance to succeed here in the U.S.

Ford is bringing the heat by fitting its C-Max with an innovative new hands-free power liftgate, which automatically opens when the driver waves their foot under the rear bumper. Yes, you need to have the vehicle's key fob within range, and we're honestly surprised that no one thought of this sooner (okay, so maybe BMW announced that it's coming to the 5 Series, but shouldn't the Honda Odyssey have this by now?) In any case, you can see how easy opening the 2012 C-Max's liftgate can be by watching the video after the jump.


Gallery: 2012 Ford C-Max

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[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Video: 2012 Ford C-Max demonstrates its hands-free liftgate

Video: 2012 Ford C-Max demonstrates its hands-free liftgate originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Dec 2010 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 ford c-maxc-maxfordhands-freehands-free liftgatehands-free tailgatepower hatchvideoMon, 20 Dec 2010 16:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19770165/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/12/20/video-2012-ford-c-max-demonstrates-its-hands-free-liftgate/19770165/article-detail.xml 19770165 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/cmaxvideo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/cmaxvideo.jpg <![CDATA[Officially Official: 2012 Ford C-Max puts the 'mini' back in 'minivan']]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/20/officially-official-2012-ford-c-max-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/20/officially-official-2012-ford-c-max-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/20/officially-official-2012-ford-c-max-revealed/#comments2012 Ford C-Max
2012 Ford C-Max - Click above for high-res image gallery

A few days after the Paris Motor Show, we had the chance to sample the Grand C-Max, Ford's latest Euro-spec MPV destined for North American soil. Other markets around the world are ripe with these mini-minivans, but here in the States, our only C-segment MPV option is the very likable Mazda5. The long-wheelbase C-Max will drop its "Grand" nomenclature when it arrives here in North America, and the public will get its first taste of the new Ford at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show.

Ford calls the C-Max's seating configuration a "five-plus-two," meaning that the interior is best suited for five passengers, and that the two rear seats are best used for small occupants. What's more, Ford offers a unique storage solution for the middle seat in the second row, allowing it to fold down and is stow underneath the bottom cushion of the rear passenger-side chair, creating a set of two captain's seats in the process (check out a video here). The rest of the C-Max interior is very much akin to what we've seen in the 2012 Focus, and we're quite impressed with the high-quality craftsmanship that FoMoCo is putting into its latest crop of cabins.

2012 Ford C-MaxPerhaps the most interesting feature of the 2012 C-Max is its hands-free liftgate. Much like a passive entry system for the driver's door, whoever has the C-Max's key fob on their person can simply wave their leg under the rear bumper, triggering two sensors that will open the liftgate. It's pretty slick, and Ford tells us that this technology will me making its way to the vast majority of the company's hatchback products.

The base powertrain in the C-Max is Ford's 2.5-liter inline-four also found in the Fusion. In its MPV home, this mill produces 168 horsepower and 167 pound-feet of torque, mated exclusively to a six-speed automatic transmission. The upmarket engine is an all-new 1.6-liter EcoBoost inline-four, rated at 180 hp and 173 lb-ft of twist, also mated to a six-speed 'box. The C-Max is only available with front-wheel drive, and 17-inch wheels are fitted to all three trim levels - S, SE and SEL.

We're eager to get our mitts on the U.S.-spec C-Max, and we're crossing our fingers that American car buyers will be more receptive to smaller MPVs than in the past. Check out the 2012 C-Max for yourself in the gallery below, and follow the jump for the full suite of details.


Gallery: 2012 Ford C-Max

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[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Officially Official: 2012 Ford C-Max puts the 'mini' back in 'minivan'

Officially Official: 2012 Ford C-Max puts the 'mini' back in 'minivan' originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Dec 2010 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 detroit auto show2012 ford c-maxc-maxdetroitdetroit 2011detroit auto showfordnaiasMon, 20 Dec 2010 00:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19766492/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/12/20/officially-official-2012-ford-c-max-revealed/19766492/article-detail.xml 19766492 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/ford-c-max-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/ford-c-max-630.jpg -1 2