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The 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid is the hybrid version of the Ford C-Max, which has been sold in Europe for years. The U.S. market will only get the C-Max Hybrid and the C-Max Energi, a plug-in hybrid that is reviewed separately. No gas-only version of the C-Max will be sold here. The C-Max hybrid seats five, and gets 47/47 mpg city/highway. The C-Max is available in SE or SEL trims.

Most reviewers point out that the natural competitor to the C-Max is the Toyota Prius v. The Prius v has more cargo space than the C-Max, and reviewers say it has a more comfortable ride. Also, the Prius v has been on the market longer than the C-Max, so there's more information about how reliable it is.

The Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen has a diesel trim that also competes with the C-Max. Though it lacks the upright, crossover feel of the C-Max, the Jetta Sportwagen diesel has more cargo space than the C-Max, and reviewers tend to rate its interior more highly than the C-Max's

The base Ford C-Max SE comes with standard Bluetooth and an iPod interface. Trading up to the SEL model adds satellite radio and navigation. Optional features include MyFord Touch touch-screen infotainment controls, a foot-activated automatic tailgate and Ford's Sync infotainment system. Many reviewers say that MyFord Touch is difficult to use. The C-Max also has a number of systems that use the main driver information display to coach more fuel-efficient driving. It's a similar system to the one used in the Ford Fusion Hybrid, and most reviewers say it works well. 

The C-Max also has Ford's self-parallel parking system. Even though most reviewers agree the C-Max is small enough to be easy to park in urban areas, they also say that the self-parking system is among the best on the market. Several reviewers also mention the high-tech sound cancelling audio system that they say keeps the C-Max quieter than other hybrids.

The 2013 Ford C-Max gets 47 miles per gallon and is more fun to drive than the Toyota Prius v, yet some reviewers say the ride is harsh, and the C-Max has less cargo space than many other wagons.

The C-Max is an all-new model for 2013 and is powered by a four-cyinder engine and an electric motor. Reviewers say the C-Max has better acceleration than the Toyota Prius v, as well as better handling, but several also say the Prius v is more comfortable. Several reviewers also complain about the brakes on the C-Max, which they say are grabby and tough to get used to.

Though it has a lower starting price than the Prius v, reviewers say the five-seat C-Max has a nicer interior, with more upscale materials and more passenger space. Reviewers also like the optional automatic tailgate that can be operated by waving a foot under the bumper. However, they complain that the electronics on the C-Max, particularly the optional MyFord Touch system, are tough to use and several note that the cargo space in the C-Max is somewhat limited for a wagon.