Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Ford C MAX 2012 Review
Ford C-MAX 2012 - Unveil
Ford C-MAX 2012 - Car and Drive
Ford is using the Frankfurt auto show to debut a very important model for the North American market. The racy 2012 Ford Grand C-Max seven-seat mini-MPV—think Mazda 5—is debuting alongside a five-seat sibling, both of which wear the intriguing styling of the Iosis Max concept from last year’s Geneva show. While Ford confirms that the Grand C-Max will be headed to the U.S. late in 2011, we do not expect the five-seater here. Like the Mazda 5, the Grand C-Max employs sliding rear doors. While it makes no attempt to mask its minivan-ness, the shapely sheetmetal suggests there’s no reason to. The higher glass-to-body ratio means it has a somewhat less sporty look than the Mazda, but the Iosis-derived surface treatments at least save it from the dowdy look of its only other real competitor currently on the U.S. market, the Kia Rondo.The 2012 Ford C-MAX is the latest addition to the companys product lineup. Sold in several worldwide markets as the Grand C-MAX, this midsize car is similar in concept to the Mazda 5. C-MAX seats 7 passengers and has two minivan-style sliding rear-side doors. Trim levels have not been announced, but we know this vehicle will come with a choice of two engines. Standard is a 168-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder borrowed from the Mazda 5. Unique to the Ford is an optional 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 168 horsepower when using regular-grade gas and 180 horsepower on premium. The sole transmission for both engines is a 6-speed automatic. Safety features include, ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, and front-side airbags. Unique to the C-MAX is a hands-free tailgate, which employs a sensor under the rear bumper. With the key fob in pocket or purse, drivers can swipe their legs under the bumper to open the tailgate. Other available features include a navigation system, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. We have not yet tested the 2012 Ford C-MAX.
Based on Ford’s global C-segment platform, which underpins cars like the Focus hatchback and sedan, the new C-Max will offer seating for up to seven and eventually be available with advanced hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains.
In the video below we see Ford product chief Derrick Kuzak present the new car in Detroit.
