The top of the line 2.0 liter TCDI is truly an impressive engine, delivering 136 horsepower while packing a walloping punch of 235 lb-ft of torque. Regardless of onboard load, this engine simply smokes the competition. Hooked
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| The top of the line 2.0 liter TCDI is truly an impressive engine, delivering 136 horsepower while packing a walloping punch of 235 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: Ford Motor Company) |
up to a six-speed manual Getrag-designed gearbox, this little van can scamper to 100 km/h in 9.6 seconds beating out both alternative engines. Top speed is slightly better too, rated at 202 km/h (126 mph). Slowing things down in a hurry, the C-Max is fitted with massive 300 mm (11.8 in) ventilated discs, meaty calipers and ABS with brake-force distribution. Fun fact: The "robust" braking system is borrowed from the hot Mondeo ST-220 (Europe's SVT Contour).
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| With the C-Max European buyers will no longer be limited to generic van shapes, often bulbous-looking blimps, but will still get to enjoy the versitility of a mini-minivan. (Photo: Ford Motor Company) |
Like the majority of new cars the C-Max started life as a concept car. The sleek, sporty design interested auto show goers so much Ford couldn't help but make designer Chris Birds' project vehicle into reality. The end result is something that varies little from the concept, even in size. It measures 4,333 mm (170.6 in) long, 1,825 mm (71.9 in) wide and 1,595 mm (62.8 in) tall, slightly longer and taller than the current Focus wagon.
Now that it's here, European buyers aren't limited to generic van shapes, often bulbous-looking blimps. People want a car that can transport their gear without making them appear as if they drive a delivery van. Ford knows that in order to succeed, the desirability factor has to be present.
