R.I.P: Ford C-Max for the US
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They did show a US version of the C-Max a while ago.
It is now dead. The C-Max we were scheduled to get was actually the larger 7 seater version they call the “Grand C-Max” in Europe.
But Ford is quick to mention that the other 2 versions, the Energi and Ev ones are still on track for the US.
Both of these are based on the “regular” European 5 passenger C-Max. 
The C-Max Energi is a plug-in Hybrid supposed to get a range of over 500 miles. Which would beat the Chevrolet Volt.
A “regular” hybrid will also be available, getting about 41 MPG.
Quite a shocking decision, at first. Especially after actually showing the car at auto shows.
But I think it does make sense.
Offering only Hybrid versions makes it a bit more special. Plus, the market is pretty limited in the US for a compact 7 seater Minivan.
Might have more chance to stand out this way.
What do you think???
My initial thoughts were disaster. But then I realized targeting the Prius V instead of the Mazda 5 was pure genius. Having this in Hybrid-Only config definitely makes this vehicle more special. Although I still wish we would get the Grand C-Max in the US. The C-Max Hybrid and C-Max Energy in 5 seat configuration was always planned for the US. They just realized that people in US wouldn't be caught dead in a gutless 7-seater (and so did Toyota). We aren't ready to stuff 7+ people into anything smaller than a Kia Sedona SW.
Both are way too close to to Kuga or escape replacement ! So i thought the 7 seater was a good idea and the escape replacement keeping a 5 seater layout .
So i guess having the Kuga and hybrid only 5 seaters might not overlap one another.
I agree – good move by Ford. But I would still want an efficient gas-only option for this model. For those who complain about no 7-seat,…. its like saying you should have seating for 5 in a Mazda Miata. No room! Get over it.
It'll all be down to price. If they can sticker it right around $33-35K (like the Leaf) with the plug-in hybrid and a decent tax rebate that takes it down to say $26K I think they can sell quite a few copies. It isn't going to outsell a Prius but will be competitive with say a Fusion.
Fewer options and less choice is never better than more, so I think this is a bad move.
"Minivans" like the Sienna and Odyssey are anything but, and the Mazda 5 isn't too bad but can be cramped. There is room in the market for a minivan in between these two extremes… I'm talking the Ford S-Max! That's the minivan they should bring over. I've got two little ones and would really prefer something with sliding doors, but don't need something HUGE like the Sienna either.
I think the hybrid may end up being just as expensive as a normal C-max once you apply tax credit – perhaps that is why Ford decided not to bring the normal gasoline version here, since it would be priced between 25-35k anyways, and a hybrid will be around 28-35 after the tax credit. I was angry at first because I really wanted to buy this vehicle. But if they can price the hybrid right, I'll still be in luck. I would prefer a hybrid version of the Grand Cmax though.
I think that Chevy decided not to bring the Orlando to the U.S., and now Ford won't bring the Grand C-Max, leaving the Mazda5 in a class all its own. Too bad Mazda screwed up the styling so bad on the new one…we love our 2009 Mazda5 — it has the ideal size and versatility for our small family.
I really wish Ford WOULD bring a Kuga or something to slot under the Escape as a less trucky smaller sportier CUV. Base it on the new Focus, cuz the Edge is big and $$$. If its on the same platform, then apply that drivetrain AWD option to other Focus based products including the CMax. Afterall, some of us have to drive through snow and ice.
Honestly, the smaller C-Max is the much more attractive one.. and considering Ford's recent history with minivans, I think they're just waiting to see how the 5-seaters (and Escape replacement) are received before bringing over the Grand. I'd definitely be interested in an alternative to the Mazda5.. if only there were a stretched version of the Kia Soul! 🙂
I actually liked the look and size of the car. The U.S. market is ripe for small vans and 5 door sport wagons. SUV's are rapidly becoming dinosaurs in our current market.
"Anonymous said…
I really wish Ford WOULD bring a Kuga or something to slot under the Escape as a less trucky smaller sportier CUV. Base it on the new Focus, cuz the Edge is big and $$$. If its on the same platform, then apply that drivetrain AWD option to other Focus based products including the CMax. Afterall, some of us have to drive through snow and ice.
June 10, 2011 11:16 AM"
They are. Where have you been???
The Kuga and the Escape will become one under Mulally's "One Ford" initiative.
I'm not sure I want the complexity and cost of a hybrid. The concept of the 'price-after-tax-credit' I think is flawed, as that could evaporate, and suddenly the vehicle is quite expensive.
Where's the diesel version?
I'm not so sure this is a good move. Look at hybrid sales these days. Even with $3.50 gas they aren't doing incredibly well. They are just sorta getting by.
https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2011/06/whats-wrong-with-this-picture-fuel-prices-versus-hybrid-sales-edition/