2017 Ford C-Max Energi

The Ford C Max Energi is possibly one of the most simplistic and practical plug-in hybrid vehicles available in the USA. It's a front-wheel-drive, compact MPV powered by an efficiency-minded 2.0-liter inline-four hybridized engine and an automatic CVT. As an ideal urban runabout, it provides fleet-footed mobility, first-rate fuel economy, and plenty of amenities and conveniences to boot, all at a reasonable starting price pegged at just upwards of $27k. There are a few things to consider though, including a middling electric range and bland overall design. Direct competitors are few and far between for the C Max Energi, with demand for larger, more contemporary, and fully electrified derivatives picking up throughout the US - the Toyota Prius Prime is perhaps the most comparable, and in this regard, competition is fierce.

The C Max Energi is not much of a looker; trademark styling from Ford is recognizable at the prow, but the rest of the styling is somewhat dull, with the body having an aphid-like silhouette. Up ahead, the SEL features blacked-out active grille shutters and a body-color bumper. It has halogen automated headlights and rides atop 17-inch bright-silver-painted aluminum rims. The Titanium model boasts a chrome grille shutter, black rocker panel molding, and some other chrome outer tidbits. It's also upgraded with LED signature headlights with daytime running lights and fog lights.

Under the hood, there's a 2.0-liter inline-four unit that's been paired with an electric motor and a 7.6-kW battery pack. In charge-depletion mode, it produces up to 195 horsepower, while the charge-sustained mode decreases that output to 188 hp. Torque is set at 129 lb-ft and outputs are directed to the front corners via an electronic continuously variable transmission. This power plant is a perfect fit for the small and lightweight vehicle. It operates best around town but also delivers quick and effective responses at higher speeds. The CVT does its job as expected, with little to no hesitation as it moves through the power band.

The Energi's electrified powertrain gives it quite a lot of pep, especially within suburban settings. As an FWD, the Energi also feels appreciably nimble and it's really easy to maneuver around tight streets and parking lots. With that said, however, the Energi is no speedster, it's simply purposed for the metropolitan environment. It is impressively comfortable, too, remaining composed over typical city surfaces. Common bumps and undulations are handled with aplomb and passengers are isolated from most rattles and shakes. The cabin is a pleasantly quiet place, too. Even at highway limits, noise from under the hood, and from the road and wind is well-dampened.

As a PHEV, the Energi performs admirably in terms of efficiency. Driven cautiously, the FWD MPV should return EPA-derived mileage estimates of 41/38/39 mpg city/highway/combined on gasoline alone. With the electric motor activated, those figures improve to 104/87/95 MPGe. The automaker claims that its PHEV should allow for a maximum travel range of around 20 miles on electricity. Add the gasoline unit and 14-gallon gas tank to the mix, and it should get around 570 miles topped-up and fully charged.

On a 120-volt household outlet, it should take around 7.5 hours to fully charge the Energi's battery. A 240 V outlet should cut that time down to around 2.5 hours.

The Energi's interior is as straightforward and unadorned as its exterior. For infotainment, the SE is outfitted with a 4.2-inch color LCD screen installed with the brand's base SYNC infotainment software - enabling voice-recognition and AppLink functions. The Titanium is fitted with a more up-to-the-minute eight-inch LCD touchscreen in the center stack. The Blue Oval's advanced SYNC 3 is installed here and has both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as for voice-activated navigation.

In the way of specs, there is a leather-wrapped, multi-functional steering wheel with manual tilt-and-telescoping adjustability, three drive modes (EV now, EV later, and EV auto), and a ten-way power-adjustable seat. A remote keyless entry function is also inclusive along with electronic door locks and windows, cloth fabric, dual-zone automatic climate control, and 60/40 split rear bench. Upgrading to the Titanium sees front-perch heating, leather-trimmed upholstery, and a few other luxuries.

Overall passenger room is acceptable, with head and leg space being slightly cramped only in the rear. Generally, comfort levels are what you'd expect from a car at this fare - just decent.

Crashworthiness scores for the 2017 C Max Energi are passable but also subpar against the consummate standards that most current automobiles uphold. The NHTSA availed the MPV with a four-star overall rating while the IIHS allocated it top ratings of Good for four out of the five crash-test evaluations the agency conducts. Every C Max Energi comes prepped with automated halogen DRLs, a rearview camera, and cruise control complemented by a standard-fit consignment of seven airbags, including one for the driver's knees. The Titanium has a reverse sensing system, too. A Driver-Assist Package containing forward sensing, parking aids, a BSMS with cross-traffic alert, and a hands-free foot-activated tailgate is optional for the top-tier trim at an extra cost.

The base 2017 Ford C Max Energi SEL is priced at an MSRP of around $27,000 and the top-of-the-line Titanium is presented at around $30k - excluding tax, registration, and licensing fees. The Energi is certainly a fine PHEV, but it's dated and fairly expensive still. With more and more EVs flashing into the market, shoppers will soon have a greater variety of more capable alternatives that will leave the Energi redundant in the very near future.