While Euro markets have been friendly to small cars, Ford may still be feeling wary during the first few months of the car's "honeymoon" period. Though it's true that interior space, comfort and roominess are important issues in this class, Ford must work hard to combat the school of thought that not all mini-MPV vehicles need be bland and boring, if it's going to attract younger buyers. Its stylish exterior, luxurious interior, many top-tier features, and Focus-like driving dynamics will go a long way to this end, mind you. When push comes to shove it's a great vehicle on paper that should translate into a great vehicle on the road - we'll just have to see if its many attributes are enough to pull in the buyers.
Does Ford need the C-Max in North America? Right about now it needs as many new vehicles as it can muster, with car-based introductions being flat right now compared to its domestic and Japanese rivals. The C-Max might just be the ticket, a segment-buster like Chrysler's Pacifica, but scaled down in size and price to real world, entry-level consumer realities. Do it Ford, and start a trend.
Specifications:
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| Ford could use an entry-level segment-buster like the C-Max in the North American market. (Photo: Ford Motor Company) |
Specifications:
- Price Range (MSRP): N/A
- Body Type: 5-door compact-minivan
- Layout: front engine, FWD
- Base Engine (est): 120 hp, 124 lb-ft, 1.8-L, I-4
- Opt Engine (est): 136 hp, 235 lb-ft, 2.0-L turbodiesel I-4
- Transmission: 5-spd manual (opt 6-spd manual, 5-spd automatic w/manual mode)
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS, EBD and BA
- Curb Weight: 1,312 - 1,448 kg (2,893 - 3,192 lbs)
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Fuel Economy (city/hwy): N/A
- Cargo Capacity (behind rear seat / seat folded): 460 / 1,620 L (16.2 / 57.2 cu ft)
- Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 km comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
- Direct Competitors: Mazda 3 Sport, Mitsubishi Lancer Sportswagon, Pontiac Vibe, Subaru Impreza Wagon, Suzuki Aerio 5dr, Toyota Matrix, VW Jetta Wagon, Volvo V50
- Web Site: www.ford.ca
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