Ford C Max Energi vs Chevy Volt Vehicle Comparison

The 2014 Ford C-Max Energi is a gas/electric hybrid wagon, seating five passengers in comfort. The C-Max Energi is only available in one true style, but this does mean that features are either on the vehicle or not, helping reduce problems caused by things like mixed inventory between different styles. The vehicle has an MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price) of $33,745.

The 2014 Chevrolet Volt is also a gas/electric hybrid, though it was built as a hatchback instead of a wagon and only seats four passengers. Like the C-Max Energi, the Volt is only available in one style and currently has an MSRP of $34,995.

 

Exterior Features

The 2014 C-Max Energi offers a wide variety of external features, a surprising number of which have been integrated into its side mirrors. In addition to side turn indicators that help communicate with other drivers, these mirrors are also heated and constructed with blind spot mirrors and security approach lamps. A power lift gate is available, and the gate can also be opened by foot if the option is installed.

The Chevrolet Volt focuses on energy-efficient LED bulbs for lighting and comes with low rolling resistance tires as a standard option to maximize the efficiency of the vehicle. The outside mirrors are both heated and power-adjustable, and enhanced exterior safety packages are available as options not included in the base price of the vehicle.

Interior Features

As a reasonably luxurious vehicle, Ford's C-Max Energi offers an excellent selection of comforts and features on the inside of the vehicle, from ambient lighting and keyless entry to in-floor storage compartments and options for enhanced speaker systems. Outside temperature sensors, heated seating, and push-button start are all standard options.

The Chevrolet Volt provides many of the connections expected with an electric vehicle, including connections to many different devices through the MyLink system. Climate control is able to run on automatic and helps to ensure a comfortable temperature at all times, and a premium trim package is available for added comfort.

Mechanical Features

The 2014 Ford C-Max Energi is a very efficient vehicle, with an average mileage rating of 45 city/40 highway miles per gallon and an MPGe of 108 city/92 highway. The primary engine is a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, while the battery is a 7.8 kW lithium ion selection. The battery charges in approximately 7 hours with a 120-volt charger, or in 2.5 hours with a 240-volt charger, and an illuminated ring indicates the current status of the recharge.

The Chevrolet Volt runs on a 1.4L engine with a standard mileage of 35 city/40 highway miles per gallon and a combined MPGe of 98. The Volt also uses an efficient lithium ion battery, though it does have a longer charging time -- 10 to 16 hours with a 120-volt connection or 4 hours with a 240-volt connection, with the charge time highly dependent on the remaining charge within the vehicle and the overall temperature outside.

Conclusion

As hybrids, there's quite a lot to like about both vehicles. The combination of gas/electric engines allows the two vehicles to demonstrate incredible mileage, and the batteries are strong enough to last the vehicles through most casual trips. However, the C-Max Energi is a somewhat more functional vehicle, offering more cargo capacity and better normal mileage at a lower retail price. Drivers can expect to see many different benefits over time.

To examine a C-Max Energi for yourself, visit your local Ford dealership in Mechanicsburg or call us at (877) 506-0354 and ask about the current selection. Hybrid vehicles can be hard to come by, so it's important to signal your interest early if you're considering getting one.