2014 Ford C-Max vs. Its Competition

Bengt Halvorson Senior Editor

In size and purpose, the 2014 Ford C-Max Hybrid fits into the market between the Toyota Prius Liftback (at 50 mpg combined) and the larger, slower Prius V wagon (at 42 mpg combined).

In this crowd, the C-Max models are much more enjoyable to drive, even though the Prius line boasts a rock-solid reputation for gas mileage and reliability.

And even though it might be a bit less distinctive inside, its interior is more welcoming and stylish.

The Kia Optima Hybrid (as well as its sibling, the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid) has been re-tuned this year, with revamped powertrain programming but essentially the same hardware; it's a surprisingly good hybrid.

Meanwhile, Ford's own Fusion Hybrid is a potential cross-showroom rival to the C-Max, but for those who don't want to be seen in a hybrid.

It's an especially smooth, efficient, and responsive take on an already noteworthy sedan.

And for an alternative that's something different, take a look at the roomy Volkswagen Passat TDI, with its fuel-efficient clean-diesel engine that achieves well over 40 mpg on the highway.