C-MAX Energi: America’s Most Fuel-efficient Plug-in Hybrid

Bolstered by best-in-class EPA ratings in both city and combined driving, the all-new 2013 Ford C-MAX Energi will be the most fuel-efficient plug-in hybrid in the country when it launches later this year. The bottom line: While providing drivers with an all-electric driving range of 20 miles, the C-MAX Energi will hit 108 MPGe in the city and 100 MPGe in combined driving; both are best-in-class marks. (Note: Ford has not yet released the vehicle’s highway grade.) And remember, if the C-MAX Energi’s high-efficiency battery pack ever runs out of juice, the vehicle can provide a total driving range of up to 500 miles by relying on its thrifty 2.0-liter I4 gasoline engine—the same powerplant that delivers fuel-economy grades of 47 mpg in city/highway/combined driving in the Ford C-MAX “regular” hybrid. Alternatively, drivers can fully recharge the car’s batteries in as little as four hours. What just might be most impressive, however, is that the Blue Oval’s new green entry adds to its segment-leading abilities with the segment’s lowest price. The MSRP for the C-MAX Energi is $32,950, but after a federal tax credit of $3,750, the net cost to consumers comes down to $29,200 (before a $795 destination charge). In addition, that price also brings standard features such as: Dual-zone climate control with rear-seat vents Leather seats, shift knob and steering wheel Steering-wheel-mounted audio controls A 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat Ford’s next-gen SmartGauge with EcoGuide reconfigurable gauge cluster SYNC with MyFord Touch Heated seats Ambient lighting Keyless entry and push-button start A six-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with USB port and six-month trial subscription to Sirius/XM radio “The C-MAX Hybrid and C-MAX Energi are designed to meet the needs of customers looking to ‘plus-up’ and optimize their hybrid car experience,” said Amy Machesney, marketing manager for the C-MAX Hybrid and C-MAX Energi. “These customers are living more environmentally responsible lives and may have bought a hybrid in the past. They are now ready for more hybrid choice, combined with style, better performance and additional versatility.”