Ford has announced changes to the 2013 C-MAX, which include lowering its EPA rating to 43 MPG from the earlier 47 MPG rating.
Ever since the 2013 Ford C-Max hybrid hit the market Ford has been criticized since the C-Max has failed to meet Ford’s claimed 47 mpg rating. We even tested the C-MAX last year and only managed to get in the high 30-mpg range. Ford is now responding to the complaints and has lowered the EPA rating for the C-Max down to a combined rating of 43 mpg.
Ford says that testing of the Fusion Hybrid was used to generate fuel economy labels for a family of vehicles, including both Fusion Hybrid and C-MAX Hybrid. The result was the same fuel economy label values for both vehicles. Because the MPG values differ from the original C-MAX Hybrid label, Ford also is making a goodwill payment to current C-MAX Hybrid owners for the estimated average fuel cost of the difference between the two labels. Customers who purchased their vehicle will receive a check from Ford for $550. Customers who leased their vehicle will receive a check for $325.
Ford has also announced some new powertrain upgrades to the 2014 C-MAX, which include gearing changes that result in a more efficient transmission drive ratio; new hood seal, front and rear tire deflectors, A-pillar moldings; the addition of rear lift gate deflectors to improve vehicle aerodynamics and new engine oil with reduced friction.
Source: Ford
