The United States’ love affair with the sport utility vehicle is not a phenomenon that has been seen to the same extent around the world. Crossovers, SUVs – you name it, we love our big vehicles
As a rule, small and functional vehicles haven’t sold well here – if they are functional, we like them big. That just so happens to be the opposite of what the Focus C-Max has to offer
In Europe, the multi-purpose van (MPV) is a big segment. While the U.S has fallen in and out of love with minivans, manufacturers apparently think we are ready to embrace them
Toyota has rolled out the Prius V and Ford is joining the fray with the decidedly more attractive Focus C-Max. The move is part of a plan to globalize the Focus, with the same model sold in different markets across the globe
As such, the car looks to be very similar to the Grand C-Max offered in Europe. And that’s a good thing – in essence, it is a small minivan with Focus cues. That makes it far more attractive than any minivan currently on the market. It is set to compete against the Mazda5 and Toyota Prius V
For C-Max duty the rear end has been lengthened and designed to accommodate two extra passengers, albeit small ones. With a total of 7 passengers, Ford refers to the Focus C-Max as a 5+2. We can see why – the rear area is only really suitable for children or adults for a short period of time. However, the ability to carry more in a pinch is a nice bonus
Ford intends the C-Max to be targeted at young Generation Y families with small children. The sliding doors offer practicality and there is a nice amount of luggage space with the third-seat down
Pricing is expected to to top out at around the base price of the C-Max’s more traditionally-sized competitors like the Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey. With Ford’s high technology and a more stylish package, it is hoping it can sway a few customers from its bigger rivals. Is Ford looking ahead to a potentially big market with the C-Max? We’ll see when the Focus C-Max goes on sale this year as a 2012 model