Ford dealers have started taking orders for America’s most affordable and fuel-efficient hybrid utility vehicle – the 2013 Ford C-MAX Hybrid. It will be more affordable than the Toyota Prius v. The new model has a lot of innovative technologies including a hands-free liftgate, capacity for five persons and cargo as well as the fun-to-drive character of well-handling cars like the Ford Focus. The C-MAX is a compact hybrid utility vehicle and the first among the company’s dedicated line of hybrids. It will be available this fall and will have a base price of $25,995. It costs $500 less than the Toyota Prius.

“C-MAX Hybrid offers better fuel economy, performance, technology and functionality than Prius v – and C-MAX Hybrid customers will pay less at the dealership and at the pump,” said Ken Czubay, vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “Ford is delivering the power of choice for leading fuel economy across its lineup – from EcoBoost to electrified vehicles – because customers increasingly want to save money at the pump, even as gas prices rise over time.” This new hybrid blends fuel economy with performance which can be seen in the horsepower and torque thus allowing higher speed in the electric mode. The vehicle has a high roofline offering ample interior space and flexibility.

C-MAX features the company’s innovative hands-free liftgate that enables quick and easy access of the cargo area without messing with the keys. It also consists of the latest version of MyFordTouch to help inform, enlighten, engage and empower drivers. It also offers the next generation of SmartGauge with EcoGuide which can display instantaneous fuel economy on the left cluster. The left cluster also features a Brake Coach that helps drivers optimize their use of the braking system. The right cluster features redesigned imagery of green leaves that shows overall driving efficiency – with efficient driving the drivers are rewarded with more leaves.