2018 Ford C-Max

4.8
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid driver's side front three-quarter view
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid driver's side profile view
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid passenger side rear three-quarter view
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid driver's side front three-quarter view
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid driver's side profile view
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid passenger side rear three-quarter view
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid driver's side front three-quarter view
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid driver's side profile view
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid passenger side rear three-quarter view
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid driver's side front three-quarter view
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid driver's side profile view
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid passenger side rear three-quarter view
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid driver's side front three-quarter view
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid driver's side profile view
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid passenger side rear three-quarter view
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid driver's side front three-quarter view
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid driver's side profile view
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid passenger side rear three-quarter view
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid gas cap open
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid rear a/c controls
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid gear shifter/center console
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid passenger seat
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid front angle medium view
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid front angle view, low wide perspective
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid exterior bonus shot
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid hatchback & suv rear angle
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid front angle medium view
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid overhead
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid low/wide front
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid low/wide rear
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid driver's side profile with drivers side door open
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid driver's side inside window controls
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid inside of driver's side open door, window open
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid front drivers side wheel at profile
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid drivers side headlight
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid drivers side door handle
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid passenger side taillight
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid front angle view
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid trunk open
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid engine
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid front seats from drivers side
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid rear seats from drivers side
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid closeup of radio head unit
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid centered wide dash shot
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid front center divider
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid speedometer/tachometer
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid gas cap release
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid seat adjustment controllers
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid cup holders
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid low/wide front 5/8
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid low/wide rear 5/8
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid trunk props
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid cup holder prop (primary)
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid auxiliary jack props
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid cup holder prop (tertiary)
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid cup holder prop (quaternary)
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid rear window wiper
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid glove box open
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid driver's side mirror, ¾ rear
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid rear model badge/emblem
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid rear manufacture badge/emblem
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid front center console with closed lid, from driver's side looking down
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid rear center console with closed lid from driver's side looking down
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid driver's floor mat and pedals. mid-seat level from outside looking in
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid rear driver's side floor mat. mid-seat level from outside looking in
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid key fob on driver's seat
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid centered wide dash shot - "night" shot
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid main power point
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid close up of grill
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid fake buck shot - interior from passenger b pillar
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid front passenger 3/4 w/ wheels turned
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid interior hero (driver's side)
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid second row side cup holder with coffee prop, or second row door cup holder with water bottle
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid rear 3/4 angle view
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid steering wheel/center console
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid center console/passenger side
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid steering wheel controls (left side)
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid steering wheel controls (right side)
2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid rear back-up camera
Starting MSRP

$24,120

Expert Rating
5.4/10
Expert Verdict

The Ford C-Max was once a radical hybrid, but has become dated against newer competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq. Poor fuel economy and a relatively small cargo area outweigh its comfortable cabin, peppy performance, and premium materials to sit near the bottom of the class.

Pros
  • Upscale cabin
  • Passenger space
  • Good acceleration
  • Fuel economy
Cons
  • Many newer rivals are better on gas
  • Snug cargo hold
  • Safety features are limited to upper trim as extra-cost options
Insights

Reliability Data

Dependability

The 150,000 & 200,000 Mile Club

How many Ford C-MAX Hybrid models have reached 150,000 miles?
51.1%
How many similar hybrid cars have reached 150,000 miles?
66.7%
How many Ford C-MAX Hybrid models have reached 200,000 miles?
23.1%
How many similar hybrid cars have reached 200,000 miles?
41.5%

Still on the Road

How many 2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid models are still on the road?
81.5%
How many similar 2018 hybrid cars are still on the road?
86.6%
How many Ford C-MAX Hybrid models are still on the road since 2013?
76.3%
How many similar hybrid cars are still on the road after 20 years?
15.6%

2018 Ford C-Max Review

Written by Nick Kurczewski - Edited by Elizabeth Maki

The 2018 Ford C-Max is a compact hybrid-powered wagon with five seats. Getting the C-Max down the road is a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor and lithium-ion battery pack. Combined output is a healthy 188 horsepower, and the C-Max returns an EPA-estimated 40 mpg combined. That’s a solid figure, but several newer rivals better it.

Two trims are available – SE and Titanium – and standard features are generous, including cloth upholstery, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, dual-zone climate control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering column, a 4.2-inch display, satellite radio and a rearview camera. There’s plenty of room for adults in both rows, and the overall ambiance of the interior is upscale. It feels built to last. Negatives include a relatively small trunk, and a lack of some active driver aids available on competing hybrids and wagons.

Ford C-Max Changes for 2018

  • No notable changes.

Where the C-Max Sits in the 2018 Ford Lineup

Ford’s extensive vehicle lineup includes cars, SUVs, sports cars, vans and pickup trucks. The C-Max shares a drivetrain with the Fusion Hybrid sedan.

2018 Ford C-Max vs. the Competition

  • Ford Escape:

    The compact Escape SUV might not deliver the same fuel economy as the C-Max, but it’s a smart choice in a crowded segment. Sharp handling and a wide range of engines make it highly versatile, and the Escape also offers optional AWD. The C-Max is exclusively front-wheel drive (FWD).

  • Ford Fusion:

    Agile and attractive, the Fusion is one of those rare family sedans that’s truly fun to drive. A lot of credit goes to its sharp steering, along with its optional turbocharged 4-cylinder and V6 engines. Both give the Fusion a real punch when you hit the accelerator. There’s also a Fusion Hybrid version that comes with the same drivetrain used in the C-Max but delivers even better fuel economy, at an EPA-rated 42 mpg combined.

  • Toyota Prius:

    The Prius remains a darling of car shoppers who love sailing past gas stations. Not only does Toyota’s popular hybrid hatchback deliver outstanding fuel economy, it comes with an airy cabin and large cargo hold. There’s also a smaller, city-friendly Prius c hatchback, along with a plug-in hybrid Prime model.

What's the Best 2018 Ford C-Max Trim for You?

Which Trim Is the Best Value

Ford equips the base SE trim with cloth upholstery, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, a 4.2-inch display screen, cruise control, a power liftgate, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, satellite radio and a rearview camera.

Best Trim for Fuel Economy

The C-Max earns an EPA-estimated 40 mpg combined city/highway.

Best Trim for Cargo Space

The C-Max has 24.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the split-folding backseat. That space expands to 52.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

Top-of-the-Line Trim

The top Titanium trim comes with an 8-inch touchscreen, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an additional USB port, heated front seats, a power-adjustable passenger seat, remote start, a nine-speaker stereo, HD radio, rear parking sensors and leather upholstery. Even more is available on the options list, including a sunroof, navigation, blind spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert and front parking sensors.

Key Features

MPG Range
42 city / 38 hwy
Standard Powertrain
141 hp, 2.0-Liter, I4
Standard Seating
5 Passengers
Standard Drivetrain
FWD
Max Cargo Space
24.5 cubic feet
NHTSA Safety Rating
4/5

2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid Pricing

The data below is updated daily, based on used car inventory for sale on CARFAX.

Original MSRP$24,120 - $27,275

2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid Predicted Value

Trade-In Value Prediction

Depreciation over the next 5 years

69%

Segment Rank based on 5 years of depreciation

No. 7 of 10

  • Value 12 Months Ago$8,150
  • Est. Value Now$6,310
  • Est. Value in 1 Year$4,620
  • Est. Value in 2 Years$3,500
  • Est. Value in 3 Years$2,800
  • Est. Value in 4 Years$2,280
  • Est. Value in 5 Years$1,940

Retail Value Prediction

Depreciation over the next 5 years

47%

Segment Rank based on 5 years of depreciation

No. 7 of 10

  • Value 12 Months Ago$13,270
  • Est. Value Now$11,620
  • Est. Value in 1 Year$10,460
  • Est. Value in 2 Years$9,250
  • Est. Value in 3 Years$7,950
  • Est. Value in 4 Years$6,890
  • Est. Value in 5 Years$6,120
Get the most accurate value of your car using VIN-specific, history-based data.Get Your Car's Value

2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid Trim Configurations

Find a Used Ford C-Max

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2018 Ford C-Max Safety

NHTSA Crash-Test Ratings

4.0
Overall Crash-Test Rating
NHTSA's 5-Star Safety Ratings program evaluates how vehicles perform in crash tests. NHTSA conducts frontal, side and rollover tests because these types account for the majority of crashes on America's roadways.

Frontal Crash Rating

Overall

4/5

Front Driver Side

4/5

Front Passenger Side

4/5

Side Crash Rating

Overall

5/5

Combined Side Barrier & Pole

Front Seat

5/5

Rear Seat

5/5

Side Barrier

Overall

5/5

Driver

5/5

Rear Passenger

5/5

Side Pole

Overall

5/5

Rollover Rating

Overall

4/5

IIHS Crash-Test Ratings

IIHS tests evaluate two aspects of safety: crashworthiness — how well a vehicle protects its occupants in a crash — and crash avoidance and mitigation — technology that can prevent a crash or lessen its severity.

Crashworthiness

Small Overlap Front - Driver Side

Acceptable

Small Overlap Front - Passenger Side

n/a

Moderate Overlap Front

Good

Side Impact

Good

Roof Strength

Good

Head Restraints and Seats

Good
Crash Avoidance & Mitigation

Front Crash Prevention

n/a

Headlights

n/a
Seat Belts & Child Restraints

Latch

n/a

Ratings only apply to the model tested. Date of manufacture and optional safety equipment can affect results. For full details visit iihs.org.

2018 Ford C-Max Safety Features

  • Camera System rearview
  • Child Seat Anchors LATCH system
  • Crumple Zones front, rear
  • Rearview Monitor in dash
  • Antilock Brakes Standard
  • Front Drive Airbags Standard
  • Front Passenger Airbags Standard
  • Side Curtain Airbags Standard
  • Side Impact Airbags Standard
  • Brake Assist Standard
  • Daytime Running Lights Standard
  • Electronic Stability Control Standard
  • Electronic Traction Control Standard
  • Rollover Stability Control Standard
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System Standard

2018 Ford C-Max Reviews

Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating
4.8
91 Reviews
5 Star
85%
4 Star
14%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
1%
1 Star
0%
interior, rating 4.8 out of 5
exterior, rating 4.8 out of 5
performance, rating 4.8 out of 5
family, rating 4.7 out of 5
cost, rating 4.9 out of 5
Write a Review
Read reviews that mention
5/5
By Love My CMax on Apr 04, 2026
Mileage 94,449

I love this car. I don't want to sell it nor do I want to trade it in, I am just curious as ro the value!

interior, rating 5.0 out of 5
exterior, rating 4.0 out of 5
performance, rating 5.0 out of 5
family, rating 4.0 out of 5
cost, rating 5.0 out of 5
5/5
By Ken Sosa on Mar 20, 2026
great on gas and durable vehicle

My car is a pleasure, reliable, economical and works every day without any problems

interior, rating 5.0 out of 5
exterior, rating 5.0 out of 5
performance, rating 5.0 out of 5
family, rating 5.0 out of 5
cost, rating 5.0 out of 5
5/5
By Ken Sosa on Mar 20, 2026
wonderful gas and extremely reliable and cost effective

wonderful driving, wonderful comfort and wonderful financial cost great on my budget

interior, rating 5.0 out of 5
exterior, rating 5.0 out of 5
performance, rating 5.0 out of 5
family, rating 5.0 out of 5
cost, rating 5.0 out of 5
4/5
By George on Mar 06, 2026
Pleasant to drive.

Comfortable seats Very peppy. Many good features. Mediocre fuel mileage for a hybrid, but acceleration makes up for only 35 to 40 mpg.

interior, rating 5.0 out of 5
exterior, rating 4.0 out of 5
performance, rating 5.0 out of 5
family, rating 5.0 out of 5
cost, rating 4.0 out of 5
5/5
By Mrs. Don on Feb 20, 2026
Fabulous Gas Mileage City & Highway Driving

I fell in love with my C-Max the first time I took a test drive at Beau Townsend Ford. It's a hybrid & has great gas mileage. The ride is smooth and it's comfortable with lots of leg room. It has a spacious trunk. The dashboard is easy to read and understand. It came with a back up camera that's so important. I've had my Ford C-Max for 5 years and I am still in love with it.

interior, rating 5.0 out of 5
exterior, rating 5.0 out of 5
performance, rating 5.0 out of 5
family, rating 5.0 out of 5
cost, rating 5.0 out of 5
1 - 5 of 91 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Ford C-Max

What is the average combined fuel economy for the 2018 Ford C-Max?
The 2018 Ford C-Max gets a combined 40 mpg.
What is the 2018 Ford C-Max NHTSA Crash-Test Rating?
The 2018 Ford C-Max gets 4 stars out of 5 possible in NHTSA Crash-Test Ratings.