The Ford C-Max is a five-seater model that dared go against the other seven-seater MPVs sold at the same price. The second generation C-Max decided redress itself as a five-seat MPV, but with an additional two seats and extra load space so it could compete adequately against the bigger seven-seaters. Apart from the space the C-Max provides, the latest model also features a sportier look and an upgraded interior made of high quality materials. Performance is also quite impressive, almost attaining dynamism and even a new kit with innovative new features. But how does the latest C-Max really fare, not just against its rivals but also on the road itself?

Pros

The Ford C-Max’s engine range includes four petrol and four diesel units. The diesel units include a 1.6-litre TDCi at 113bhp, a 2.0-litre TDCi at 113bhp, 138bhp, and 160bhp, as well as a 1.6-litre TDCi at 93bhp. The 2.0-litre TDCi at 160bhp is the fastest in the diesel range. There’s also a 1.6-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine that features two power units; this low-powered unit can arrive at 62mph after 9.4 seconds and can deliver at 148bhp. Pulling power is also very impressive at 240Nm, making it a breeze to overtake vehicles along single carriageways. But if you want true power on the road, there’s the high powered version at a 177bhp output. This version of the EcoBoost can arrive at 62mph after 8.5 seconds. It’s no disappointment even as a first for Ford. All engines are partnered to a five-speed gearbox for the 1.6-litre petrols (103 bhp and 123bhp), while the 1.6-litre Ecoboost and diesel engines come with a six-speed manual gearbox.

The latest C-Max has also made remarkable improvements to the car’s ride and handling. Along a twisted road, the C-Max feels light and small especially against the experience in a Fiesta or Focus. Body roll is minimal and is only noticeable when you have to enter a corner fast. Steering and suspension has also been improved for sharper turn-ins and the experience well-weighted for a precise response as you corner.

The cabin is cozy, keeping wind, engine, and road noise at a minimum. The front seat passenger and driver can also enjoy the comfort of having more than enough head and legroom. Seats are also supportive enough for long drives, providing able side supports and cushioning. Three individual seats can be split at the rear 40/20/40 to slide outer seats backwards for more legroom and in case you want to keep the centre seat down.

Cons

Although the 1.6-litre TDCi unit claims to have CO2 emissions at 119g/km and 61.4 mpg of file economy, it doesn’t deliver that much needed satisfaction every driver is after. The engine isn’t very intuitive either as it requires the right mix of thought and care so you achieve the right rapid getaways along junctions. A smoother alternative would be the 2.0-litre diesel that isn’t just smooth and refined, but also has the right torque even from the low down. The entry-level is a worthier choice as well thanks to its sweet performance as you drive around town. It only tends to get buzzy along motorways.

The Ford C-Max was first introduced into the European market in 2003 and in 2012 in the United States. Classified as a compact MPV, the Ford C-Max is made up of two generations of models. First-generation C-Max units used the Ford C1 platform, while second-generation models are built on the newer Global C platform. The first generation lineup ran from 2003 to 2010, while the second generation C-Max cars were in place starting 2010 until today.

In 2006, the Ford C-Max underwent a facelift, with the updated version revealed at the Bologna Motor Show within the same year. Before the facelift, this model was known as the Ford Focus C-Max. Its name was changed to simply Ford C-Max to fit in with the Ford’s strategy of producing a line of MPVs that is ‘Max’ branded which began with the Ford S-Max.

When hybrid versions for the Ford Focus C-Max were developed, the aim was to come up with a hybrid utility vehicle with the most affordable price in the market. These were the C-Max Hybrid and C-Max Energi. The C-Max Hybrid was released in September 2012 while the C-Max Energi was introduced the following month in October 2012. US versions of the hybrid are assembled in Michigan while their European brothers are built in Spain.