Why did Ford stop making the Ford C-Max?
Ford discontinued the C-Max hybrid and plug-in hybrid models in 2018 due to declining sales and a shift in consumer preferences towards SUVs and crossovers. The C-Max, a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), struggled to gain traction in the North American market as buyers increasingly favored larger, more versatile vehicles.
Declining Sales and Shifting Market Trends
The C-Max was introduced in the United States in 2012 as Ford's answer to the Toyota Prius, aiming to provide a more practical and efficient alternative to the popular hybrid sedan. However, the C-Max never managed to capture a significant share of the hybrid market. Sales of the C-Max declined steadily over the years, from a high of around 34,000 units in 2013 to just over 6,000 units in 2017. This downward trend was largely due to the growing popularity of SUVs and crossovers, which offered more space, versatility, and a perceived sense of safety for many consumers.
Challenges with Fuel Economy Claims
Another factor that contributed to the C-Max's demise was the controversy surrounding its fuel economy claims. When the C-Max was first introduced, Ford advertised it as achieving 47 miles per gallon (MPG) in both city and highway driving. However, after consumer complaints and independent testing, the EPA later revised the C-Max's fuel economy ratings to 43 MPG city and 39 MPG highway, a significant drop from the initial claims. This discrepancy eroded consumer trust and made the C-Max less appealing to buyers seeking a highly efficient hybrid vehicle.
Shift in Ford's Product Strategy
In addition to the market trends and fuel economy issues, Ford's overall product strategy also played a role in the C-Max's discontinuation. The automaker began to focus more on SUVs, trucks, and crossovers, which were more profitable and better aligned with consumer preferences. As a result, Ford decided to phase out the C-Max and other passenger car models to free up resources and production capacity for its more popular and lucrative vehicle segments.
Conclusion
The discontinuation of the Ford C-Max was a result of a combination of factors, including declining sales, shifting consumer preferences towards larger vehicles, challenges with fuel economy claims, and Ford's strategic shift towards more profitable SUVs and trucks. While the C-Max offered a unique and efficient alternative in the hybrid market, it ultimately failed to gain widespread acceptance and was ultimately discontinued in 2018.
What is comparable to a Ford C-Max?
Before choosing the C-Max it's worth taking a close look at some of the competition out there, not least the Citroen C4 Picasso, VW Touran and Renault Scenic.
What are the common faults on a Ford C-Max?
Ford C-Max Common Problems and Solutions
- Passenger Door won't Lock. Problem:
- Turbo Malfunction (All Turbo Models) Problem:
- Burnt Out Headlights. Problem:
- Clutch is Slipping. Problem:
- Slippery driving. Problem:
- Car taking too much fuel and lacking power. Problem:
- Rear brakes. Problem:
- External boot release button. Problem:
Why was the Ford B-Max discontinued?
In September 2017, production of B-Max ended, due to dwindling demand for the model, as well as a general decline in sales of mini MPVs.
Why did Ford discontinue the Ford C-Max?
Sales for the C-Max peaked back in 2013 and never returned, partly due to the originally overstated 47 mpg combined city/highway driving for the C-Max Hybrid. Ford has since dropped that figure to 40 mpg combined driving and issued checks to disgruntled owners.
Is the Ford C-Max coming back?
It's been a fun ride over the past years, and we couldn't be prouder of our spirited, up-for-anything compact SUV. Even though we will no longer be producing the C-MAX, we think we've got a few vehicles in our lineup to fill your criteria for versatility and driving enjoyment to seek out new adventures.
What car replaced the Ford C-Max?
Ford has bucked tradition by replacing the outgoing C-MAX with not one, but two all-new models. The five-seater and the seven-seater Grand are designed to sew up the small people carrier market. We've put them to the test to find out if they've got what it takes...
Which is better, B Max or C-Max?
Both cars are solidly built and will last the test of time. Each B-Max model comes with safety kit like traction control and stability control as standard, plus plenty of air bags. The C-Max is just as secure, featuring some handy automatic braking tech, active park assist, and the pre-collision assist system.
What are the pros and cons of the Ford C-Max?
Likes: Spacious and comfortable interior, simple infotainment setup, plenty of cargo room. Dislikes: Dated interior design, bulky dash-mounted shifter, base infotainment system is basic. The C-Max's interior is comfortable, but it's a generation behind Ford's newest offerings in its design, materials, and finishes.
What is the most reliable year of Ford Fusion Hybrid?
Best Ford Fusion Years: 2018-2020, especially for reliability. Best Fusion Hybrid Years: 2013-2014, for excellent fuel economy. Years to Avoid: 2010 and 2013 due to transmission problems, power steering issues, and numerous recalls. Strengths: Stylish design, all-wheel drive, and a wide variety of options.
Is the Ford C-Max a reliable car?
Is a used Ford C-Max MPV reliable? Yes, according to our most recent reliability survey. The C-Max and Grand C-Max finished in third place in the MPV class, with an excellent overall score of 95%. Only 21% of the 0-to-3-year-old examples surveyed had any faults at all.
