The Toyota Prius V can average 44 mpg in the city which currently makes it the most fuel efficient hybrid utility in America. When the Ford C-MAX Hybrid hits the streets however, the Toyota will more than likely have to sign its title away. With a estimated 47 mpg in the city, the 2013 five door will not only out mileage the Prius, but it will do so with a lower entry fee to boot. For that reason, Ford expects half of C-MAX Hybrid buyers to be converted folks trading in their previous, other-make hybrids.
“The C-MAX Hybrid builds on Ford’s 20 years of hybrid innovation and fuel-efficient offerings to take on Prius v with better city fuel economy at 47 mpg and at better value – a great chance for us to shake up the hybrid market,” said Raj Nair, group vice president of Global Product Development for Ford. Scheduled to land at dealerships later this fall, the C-MAX Hybrid will start at $25,995. Compared to the Prius V, that price is $1,300 less while the Ford manages to pump out more power with a total combined output of 188 horsepower. An all-new 2.0 liter inline four cylinder is paired to Ford’s battery/electric motor assist so that 44 mpg should be averaged on the highway. Joining the efficiency is plenty of room with seating for five and 99.7 cubic feet of passenger space.
